VAR Offside Disallows Flamengo Goal, Sparks Controversy vs. São Paulo

By:Luzia AiresBrazilian Serie A27/07/2026at 15:25

The use of semi-automated offside technology sparked intense debate after disallowing what would have been Flamengo’s winning goal against São Paulo at Maracanã, in Round 20 of the Brazilian Serie A.

The clash between Flamengo and São Paulo, played on Sunday night (26), ended in a 1-1 draw that left the Rubro-Negra faithful fuming. The peak of the controversy occurred in the final moments when the CBF’s semi-automated offside technology intervened to invalidate what would have been Flamengo’s winning goal.

The decision, based on Wallace Yan’s “tip of the boot,” divided opinions on social media. While some fans defended the tool’s mathematical precision, a large portion of the Rubro-Negra faithful questioned the intervention, which frustrated their pursuit of three points in a crucial direct confrontation for the remainder of the Brazilian Serie A.

Match Progression at Maracanã

The clash began with São Paulo creating danger just five minutes in with Wendell. Flamengo responded with Samuel Lino and Pedro but was hampered by poor finishing and goalkeeper Rafael. The first half also saw Pulgar hit the crossbar, but the score remained goalless, with both teams showing some creative instability.

In the second half, the scenario changed. The Rubro-Negro returned pressing, and at 10 minutes, Bruno Henrique almost opened the scoring. Shortly after, following a corner taken by Lorran and a deflection by Pulgar, Léo Pereira put Flamengo ahead, sending the stadium into a frenzy.

The Equalizer and Technological Intervention

The lead didn’t last long. At 24 minutes, striker Calleri equalized for the Tricolor Paulista, capitalizing on a cross from Osorio. The game remained intense, with a lot of physical play until the final incident that determined the draw. After Samuel Lino’s disallowed goal, the atmosphere among the players became tense, with disagreements reflecting the frustration over the result.

The draw slows Flamengo’s momentum in the standings, but the focus now shifts to the next round, where the Rio side will need to overcome refereeing decisions and make the necessary adjustments to get back to winning ways. Technology, which was supposed to bring peace, continues to be the center of attention in national football.

Mengão 360