Gift Orban denied by the crossbar and VAR as Hellas Verona fall to Roma

Gift Orban was denied a late lifeline for Hellas Verona as VAR ruled out his stoppage-time strike in a 2-0 defeat to Roma on Sunday.

The Nigerian forward thought he had pulled one back for Verona in the 94th minute, rising high to challenge for a cross before bundling the ball into the net.

Initial celebrations were cut short, however, as referee Francesco Feliciani reviewed the incident on the monitor.

Replays showed the ball striking Orban’s right arm before crossing the line, leading to the goal being overturned.

The decision was announced to the entire stadium, sparking frustration among Verona players and supporters.

The disallowed effort capped a difficult night for Paolo Zanetti’s side, who were second-best for much of the contest.

Orban came so close to equalizing for Hellas Verona in the 28th minute, only for his effort to come off the crossbar.

Roma had taken control through a first-half opener from Artem Dovbyk and a second goal after the break from Matias Soulè.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s men saw out the win with authority, moving to the top of Serie A alongside Napoli.

For Verona, the loss leaves them with just three points from their opening six games, hovering near the relegation zone.

Orban’s disallowed goal summed up their misfortune as Roma marched away with a deserved 2-0 victory.

Wale Adejumo

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