Newly surfaced footage could completely alter the narrative surrounding Van Dijk’s penalty incident against Brentford.
New footage shared on Reddit has reignited discussion surrounding one of the most controversial moments from Liverpool’s 3–2 defeat to Brentford. The new camera angle appears to show that the contact involving Virgil van Dijk actually occurred outside the penalty area.
Alternative angle questions VAR’s decision against Liverpool
The clip, uploaded by user NEEZ8, shows Van Dijk’s challenge on Dango Ouattara from a wider viewpoint, seemingly indicating that any contact happened just outside the box.
That detail is crucial because referee Tim Robinson had originally given a free-kick before VAR reviewed the incident and upgraded it to a penalty — a call that allowed Igor Thiago to score Brentford’s eventual winner.
Liverpool’s overall display in west London was poor, but that moment proved decisive.
Had the foul been outside the area, the game might have ended 2–2, potentially offering the Reds a chance to rebuild some confidence.
Former referee Mark Clattenburg previously stated that “Van Dijk clearly made contact with Dango Ouattara’s foot on the line of the penalty area,” and that “the line is part of the penalty area.” However, this fresh footage could make supporters question whether VAR’s interpretation was accurate.
Liverpool’s fine margins and growing VAR frustration
Arne Slot’s side have now suffered four consecutive Premier League defeats — their worst run since 2021 — and while performances haven’t been up to standard, these close VAR calls continue to go against them.
It wasn’t the only controversial moment either, with Cody Gakpo’s denied penalty shout also sparking debate.
Liverpool have now conceded two or more goals in nine of their last ten league matches, and unless they tighten up, it’ll be difficult to turn their form around. Still, when fan-shared clips start contradicting VAR’s verdicts, it’s hard not to feel that fortune simply isn’t on Liverpool’s side right now.
