Why Harry Kane escaped a red card during Arsenal vs Bayern Munich Champions League clash?

Bayern Munich strike Harry Kane escaped a red card in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with the German giants at the Emirates on Tuesday night. The former Tottenham striker made contact with Arsenal defender Gabriel during Bayern Munich’s Champions League quarter-final clash.

How did Harry Kane escape a red card?

The Gunners fans were left fuming as they claimed Bayern should have been down to 10 men, stating that England captain Harry Kane should have been sent off.

The 30-year-old striker caught Brazilian centre-back Gabriel in the face with an outstretched elbow underneath the Brazilian’s jaw in the 55th minute. When the Arsenal man fell to the floor, referee Glenn Nyberg brandished the Englishman with only a yellow card. Many suggested that the foul should have warranted a straight red card.

The foul left Gabriel in pain and needing treatment and several Arsenal fans are baffled how the England captain escaped with only a yellow card. Even the VAR didn’t intervene to go to the pitch side monitor to review the incident which could have resulted in a red card.

What did the former Premier League referee say about the incident?

“Harry Kane can count himself a lucky boy. His swinging elbow to the face of Arsenal defender Gabriel in the 55th minute of Tuesday night’s thrilling Champions League quarter-final first leg was dangerous, reckless, and with excessive force,” wrote Hackett.

“Kane knew exactly what he was doing, as you can tell from his glance back at Gabriel to see where his opponent was positioned. I’m sorry, but as soon as you take your eyes off the ball and play the man, you are asking for trouble.”

If Harry Kane received a red card at the Emirates, he would have been suspended for next week’s reverse fixture at the Allianz Arena. Again controversies arise about inconsistencies in refereeing and whether Mikel Arteta’s side were victims of unfair officiating.