New Era of MLS VAR: Viral St. Louis City goal overturned due to controversial foul call by referee Filip Dujic

St. Louis City forward Indiana Vassilev and Atlanta United goalkeeper Brad Guzan found themselves at the center of a heated debate over an overturned St. Louis City goal due to a foul called by referee Filip Dujic. The controversial call sparked a viral reaction on social media as fans were left stunned by the decision.

During the first half of the St. Louis home match against Atlanta United, an early goal by St. Louis was reviewed by VAR for potential offsides and a foul in the buildup to the goal. While there was no offsides detected, the referee team ruled that there was indeed a foul, resulting in the goal being nullified.

The announcement made by referee Filip Dujic, denying St. Louis City the lead, quickly spread across social media platforms for his smirk and interaction with the crowd. This incident highlights a new era of MLS VAR as the league implemented changes in rules, including in-stadium VAR announcements, in April.

Under these new rules, VAR decisions are now explained and announced by the center referee, offering fans both inside the stadium and at home a better understanding of the decision-making process. Despite this setback, St. Louis managed to secure a 1-1 draw with midfielder Indiana Vassilev scoring in the 50th minute, only to be matched by Atlanta’s Daniel Ríos 20 minutes later.