Controversial Penalty Call Overturned in Genoa vs Udinese

The Serie A clash between Genoa and Udinese on Friday 20 March 2026 kicked off at 8:45 pm as part of the 30th round of the 2025/26 season.

The Incident

In the 49th minute of the second half Genoa striker Colombo latched onto a central pass, drove toward the penalty area and was impeded by Udinese defender Kabasele. Kabasele, who had lost his mark, initially held his left arm bent behind his back before extending it slightly toward the ball at the moment of contact. Referee Collu saw the movement and awarded a penalty to the Rossoblù.

VAR Review and Decision

After a lengthy VAR check, referee Collu was sent to the On‑Field Review monitor. Following the review he announced that Kabasele’s arm was in a natural position and that there was no increase in body volume, therefore rescinding the penalty decision. The call sparked a strong reaction from the Genoa bench and the stadium crowd.

Analysis from Luca Marelli

Before the review, DAZN video analyst Luca Marelli commented that the incident was not an easy call and that officials would need to determine whether there was an increase in body volume or merely a natural arm movement. After the decision, Marelli added that the VAR room concluded the arm movement was probably instinctive but did not increase the defender’s body volume, and the front‑facing camera did not show the arm at the exact moment of contact.

Aftermath

Following the penalty reversal, referee Collu produced a red card for one of Daniele De Rossi’s teammates, adding further drama to an already contentious finish.