Premier League explain Lisandro Martinez decision after Man Utd star’s ‘shocking’ tackle

Lisandro Martinez faced potential expulsion during Manchester United’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace after a risky two-footed challenge on Daichi Kamada.

In the 63rd minute, Martinez leapt into the air, landing just inches from Kamada, who was controlling the ball. Although the United defender won the ball without making contact with Kamada, Palace players were furious that only a yellow card was issued.

Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson ran out to protest the decision and was booked for his actions. About 15 minutes later, the Premier League’s Match Centre account clarified the decision on social media, stating that VAR had reviewed the incident for a possible red card.

“The referee issued a yellow card to Martinez for a challenge on Kamada,” the post explained. “VAR checked for a potential red card and confirmed the referee’s decision, deeming it a reckless challenge that did not make contact with Kamada.”

Lisandro Martinez’s challenge on Daichi Kamada during Manchester United’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace was highly contentious, leading to a potential expulsion discussion. In the 63rd minute, Martinez lunged into a two-footed tackle near Kamada, who was in control of the ball. While the Argentine defender won the ball cleanly and avoided contact with Kamada, the Palace players were outraged that only a yellow card was shown.

Palace’s goalkeeper, Dean Henderson, protested vehemently and received a booking for his complaints. Shortly after, the Premier League’s Match Centre clarified via social media that VAR had reviewed the incident and deemed it reckless, but not deserving of a red card, as no contact was made with Kamada.