Slavia Prague's manager Jindřich Trpišovský has unleashed a furious tirade against match officials following what he described as an "unacceptable" performance during their Champions League defeat to Arsenal.
The Czech side fell to a 2-0 loss at the Emirates Stadium, but the post-match discussion has been dominated by controversial refereeing decisions that left the visiting team fuming.
Controversial Moments Mar Champions League Clash
Trpišovský pointed to several key incidents that he believes cost his team dearly. The most contentious moment came when Arsenal's opening goal was allowed to stand despite Slavia's claims of a foul in the build-up.
"The situation before the first goal was a clear foul," the frustrated manager stated. "We are talking about the Champions League level, and such decisions are simply unacceptable."
Penalty Appeals Dismissed
The Czech champions also felt aggrieved by the officials' refusal to award what appeared to be a strong penalty claim. Replays suggested Arsenal defender William Saliba may have handled the ball inside the area, but the referee waved play on.
"We had clear situations that should have been reviewed," Trpišovský added, highlighting what he perceived as inconsistent application of VAR throughout the match.
Growing Frustration with UEFA Officiating
This isn't the first time Slavia Prague have expressed dissatisfaction with UEFA officials this season. The club now faces an anxious wait to see if their public criticism will result in disciplinary action from European football's governing body.
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended his team's performance, stating: "We played our game and deserved the victory. Sometimes decisions go for you, sometimes against you."
The result leaves Slavia Prague with a mountain to climb in Group B, while Arsenal strengthen their position at the top of the table ahead of the return fixture in Prague.
