Ndidi blasts VAR decision in Besiktas’s derby defeat to Fenerbahce

Wilfred Ndidi has openly criticised officiating standards in the Turkish Süper Lig after a controversial decision marred Besiktas’s 1-0 defeat to Fenerbahce.

The Istanbul derby appeared headed for a goalless draw until deep into stoppage time, when referee Yasin Kol awarded a penalty to Fenerbahce following a challenge involving Emmanuel Agbadou.

Replays suggested the defender had made contact with the ball before any follow-through, raising immediate questions over the decision. Despite the availability of VAR, the referee did not review the incident, a move that intensified post-match backlash.

Ndidi, who played a key role in midfield throughout the contest, was among several players who protested on the pitch.

Ndidi questions VAR process

Taking to social media after the match, the Nigerian international expressed clear frustration over the lack of review.

“How can you have VAR and decide not to check? I’m still trying to understand,” he wrote.

His comments reflect broader concerns about consistency and transparency in officiating, particularly in high-stakes fixtures.

Wider implications for Turkish football

The decision proved decisive in a tightly contested derby with significant title implications. Fenerbahce remain in close pursuit of league leaders, while Besiktas were left to reflect on a result influenced by officiating controversy.