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Serie A 2021-22: VAR rules out Cristiano Ronaldo's winner against Udinese, bench creates controversy

Cristiano Ronaldo was denied his season's opening goal, thanks to the Video Assistant Referee in the game against Udinese. Meanwhile, he did not start the game for Juventus, thus creating controversy.

Serie A 2021-22: VAR rules out Cristiano Ronaldo's winner against Udinese, bench creates controversy-ayh
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Udinese, First Published Aug 23, 2021, 12:44 PM IST

Portuguese sensation Cristiano Ronaldo could not score his season's opening goal on Sunday against Udinese in the away encounter. The Video Assistant Referee ruled out a last-minute winner from Ronnie, with Juventus settling for a 2-2 draw.

Although the visitor was leading 2-0 at halftime following goals from Paulo Dybala and Juan Cuadrado, the host bounced back in the second half to draw level. Meanwhile, Ronaldo did not come onto the pitch until the 59th minute after Udinese scored its first goal.

At the stoppage time, Ronaldo fired in a header to have seemingly put Juventus back ahead. However, the VAR checked his positioning and ruled it out offside, leaving the Bianocneri and the Portuguese frustrated.

ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo rubbishes rumours of his transfer to Real Madrid

There was a mild controversy following the draw, with Ronaldo being put on the bench, away from starting XI. It once again fuelled the rumours of Ronaldo looking for a move away from Turin.

Serie A 2021-22: VAR rules out Cristiano Ronaldo's winner against Udinese, bench creates controversy-ayh

However, Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri ruled that it was a tactical decision and not the player, while he had always intended to have him on the ground. Speaking to DAZN, he said that he had put him on the bench since it is just the start of the season and would come on later once the need arises. He also clarified that Ronaldo had made himself available before the match, besides playing well and even scoring, only for the goal to be ruled out.

Ronaldo has not yet told the Old Lady that he wants to leave, while reports suggest that the club expects him to stay until the season end to see out his contract. Although he is yet to receive a formal offer from any club, it is being said that Juventus would let him go if his valuation of €28 million is met.
 
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