Benjamin Sesko onside goal Leipzig Real Madrid VAR ruling

Real Madrid escapes VAR scare against RB Leipzig in Champions League match. Benjamin Sesko's goal was overturned, sparking controversy.

The UEFA Champions League made its return this week, kicking off the Round of 16 with a match between Real Madrid and RB Leipzig. The game got off to an intense start, with RB Leipzig looking to take the lead just two minutes in. A corner kick resulted in a volleyed shot by Xaver Schlager, which was then nodded into the net by Benjamin Sesko. However, the celebration was short-lived as the flag went up, and the goal was disallowed.

A quick VAR check upheld the onfield decision, but replays showed that Sesko was actually onside, being played in by Real Madrid's Rodrigo. The only possible explanation for the decision was that a Leipzig player behind the goalkeeper was deemed to be interfering with play, despite being in an offside position. This decision left both players and commentators baffled, as it seemed to be an extremely harsh bit of officiating.

Despite the controversial call, RB Leipzig continued to put pressure on the Real Madrid defense, but were unable to capitalize on their chances. The first half ended with the score still level at 0-0, setting the stage for an intense second half.

The match ended with Real Madrid escaping the early scare and the controversy surrounding the disallowed goal. The decision to overturn the goal using VAR will surely leave RB Leipzig and their player, Benjamin Sesko, feeling hard done by. The Champions League action is set to continue, with more thrilling matches and contentious decisions sure to come.