Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand was surprised by the referee’s decision not to send off Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate during their Champions League match against PSG.

The two teams faced off in the Round of 16 first leg at Parc des Princes on Wednesday. Liverpool secured a 1-0 victory, but the game had a controversial moment in the 26th minute.

PSG’s Bradley Barcola was running toward the box when Konate pushed him from behind. PSG players and fans were furious, believing Konate had denied a clear goal-scoring chance. However, referee Davide Massa did not give a red card, even after a long VAR review.

Speaking on TNT Sports, Rio Ferdinand expressed his disbelief:

“That’s a foul. The push is in the back. If that’s not a red card, I’ll be amazed. It would be a shame if they went down to ten men, but it’s a foul.”

He also felt Liverpool were fortunate not to be trailing:

“Liverpool are lucky not to be two goals behind with ten men. I can’t believe how lucky they’ve been there.”

Ferdinand further explained that Konate’s push was clear:

“If Barcola and Konate were shoulder to shoulder, I’d understand. But Konate barged him straight on the back. How has VAR not seen that?”

The decision sparked debate among fans and analysts, with many believing PSG should have received a bigger advantage.