Strange decision. Referee denies handball penalty in CAF Champions League clash between Pyramids and FAR Rabat

Refereeing decisions in Africa are once again under scrutiny. In Cairo, Pyramids and FAR Rabat are battling it out for a spot in the CAF Champions League semi-finals for the 2025/26 season, but the match has already been marked by a major officiating blunder.

During one of the key moments, a visiting defender handled the ball inside his own penalty area, yet the referee refused to award a penalty, even after consulting VAR—a move that sparked outrage among fans and pundits alike. Meanwhile, in another match—Al Ahly versus Espérance—a similar incident led to a penalty kick being awarded.

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This disparity in how nearly identical incidents are judged has reignited debates over the consistency of refereeing in African football. Such controversial decisions continue to stir up heated discussions among supporters, highlighting ongoing instability in the application of VAR technology.

At half-time, reigning champions Pyramids are trailing 0-1. The first leg in Morocco ended in a 1-1 draw.