Socceroos handballScreenshot

'Where's the VAR?' - Socceroos denied 'clear' penalty against Jordan

The Socceroos have struggled considerably in the first-half against Jordan in their Asian Cup opener and weren't helped by a missed handball before the break.

With Anas Bani Yaseen heading Jordan ahead in the 26th minute, Australia were lucky not to be further behind as they put in a lethargic performance.

Despite the disappointing showing, the Socceroos felt they should have had a penalty just before half-time with a Robbie Kruse cross clearly touching the outstretched hand of Feras Shelbaieh.

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While replays appeared to be conclusive, the referee missed it and with VAR not in effect until the quarter-finals, Australia would not get the chance to equalise from the spot. 

With fans already frustrated after a poor first-half performance, the missed penalty shout only added further pain and left them confused as to why VAR isn't being used during the group stages.

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