Chelsea head coach Sonia Bompastor expressed frustration with officiating after her side drew 0-0 against Arsenal in the Women's Champions League quarter-final first leg. Bompastor claimed Arsenal defender Katie McCabe should have been dismissed for pulling Alyssa Thompson's hair. The incident occurred during the first half at the Emirates Stadium but did not result in a red card following a review.
Bompastor stated she was disappointed that video assistant referees did not intervene further, according to The Guardian. The Chelsea manager said the action was clear on television replays and warranted a different decision from the officials. Arsenal held on to secure the draw ahead of the return fixture at Stamford Bridge next week, per Sky Sports.
Chelsea winger Thompson was making her first start in the competition following her recent transfer. The result leaves the tie balanced, though Chelsea will host the second leg. Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall defended his player, noting the intensity of the London derby atmosphere, according to reports from The Athletic.
