The Ref Watch panel has raised serious questions about the use of VAR after a dangerous tackle by Leny Yoro on Johan Manzambi went unpunished and, strikingly, unreviewed.

Analysts on the show scrutinised the challenge and concluded that Yoro was extremely fortunate to escape any sanction — with the panel puzzled as to why the video assistant referee did not step in to examine the incident.

The tackle drew immediate attention for its reckless nature, yet match officials allowed play to continue without a card being issued or a review being triggered. For the Ref Watch experts, that represented a clear failure of the system designed to correct on-field errors.

VAR's primary purpose is to intervene in serious missed incidents — including dangerous challenges that may warrant a red card. The panel's concern centres on why the protocol was not followed in this case, leaving Yoro on the pitch when, in their assessment, he could — and arguably should — have been dismissed.

Manzambi was on the receiving end of the challenge, and the panel's sympathy lay firmly with the player who had no recourse once the officials moved on without acting. The incident adds to a broader conversation around the consistency of VAR decision-making in the top flight.