Jay Jay Okocha: Super Eagles legend calls for VAR in NPFL game after controversial penalty

Legendary Nigerian midfielder, Augustine "Jay-Jay" Okocha, was spotted in the stands during the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) match between Sporting Lagos and Abia Warriors.

The match had a controversial moment when the referee pointed to the spot in the 71st minute after a Sporting Lagos defender brought down Abia Warriors' striker in the box.

Sporting's Christian Nwoke eventually saved the penalty kick, and the Lagos-based side went on to win the tie 4-2 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

In a viral video shared on social media, Okocha was filmed jokingly calling for the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology to review the penalty decision while making the famous gesture.

Jayjay Okocha calling for VAR in yesterday’s NPFL game#NPFL #BetaSports pic.twitter.com/OwU0Yx57fm

— StarTimes Nigeria (@StarTimes_Ng) April 30, 2024

The former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder's action stirred reactions among fans on social media, who shared their thoughts on the referee's decision to point to the spot.

Reactions as Okocha calls for VAR use

@Hay_Why_O said:

"But that's a terrible challenge to make inside the box now🤣🤣"

@PeaceMakerC1 said:

"right call"

@jollertex said:

"Nothing to check, that's a clear penalty"

@SolomonOlayode said:

"The defender had to be red carded too."

@marvehlarnde said:

"That’s a clear penalty."

@Mosesoflife said:

"Sadly VAR was not present to have a say in this. It's not a pk."

@MrAsimolowo said:

"Wait.. e no even touch am. We were skeptical on Sunday, why Salawudeen even slide for there."

NFF president during the NPFL management and staff retreat claimed VAR will soon be implemented in the domestic leagues, according to a report by Premium Times.