Evanilson Red Card Overturned After VAR Controversy in Bournemouth vs Manchester United Draw

‘Corrupt League!’ – VAR Decision Sparks Outrage as Bournemouth Fans Blame Officials for Dropped Points

Bournemouth’s dream of securing a historic European spot took a serious hit last weekend – and fans are blaming one thing: VAR. In a dramatic 1-1 draw against Manchester United at the Vitality Stadium, the turning point came in the 70th minute when striker Evanilson was controversially sent off. Initially shown a yellow card for a challenge on Noussair Mazraoui, the decision was upgraded to a red after a VAR review – a moment that flipped the match on its head.

Bournemouth had been leading 1-0 at the time and were well on course for a huge win against a struggling United side. But after going down to 10 men, they were pegged back by a late equaliser from Bruno Fernandes in stoppage time. The fallout since then has been nothing short of explosive.

FA Overturns Evanilson’s Red Card After Bournemouth Appeal

On Tuesday, the Football Association confirmed that Evanilson’s red card had been rescinded following a successful appeal. An independent Regulatory Commission deemed the dismissal wrongful, and his three-match suspension has been lifted.

“The AFC Bournemouth forward was sent off during the Premier League fixture against Manchester United on Sunday, 27 April, for serious foul play,” the FA said in its official statement. “An independent Regulatory Commission has removed Evanilson’s three-match ban following a successful claim of wrongful dismissal.”

For Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, it was a bittersweet moment. His team had been vindicated, but the damage may already be done.

“We felt at the time it was a really harsh decision,” Iraola told reporters after the ruling. “We were in control of the game and that changed everything. I’m glad common sense has prevailed now, but it’s tough to take knowing it possibly cost us the win.”

Bournemouth Fans Vent Fury: ‘VAR Cost Us Europe’

AFC Bournemouth v Manchester City – Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final

The anger from the Cherries faithful has only grown since the announcement. On social media, supporters didn’t hold back in their criticism of the officials and VAR.

@merciii69 fumed: “Cheating refs trying to get United out the sh**. Corrupt league.”

Another user, @Cowden81, called the decision to send Evanilson off “farcical,” while @AddyFi pointed to the bigger implications: “If we had 11 men for United I’m sure we would have had an extra 2 points. VAR have most probably cost us Europe.”

The strongest words may have come from @realstumcbride, who wrote: “If we miss Europe by 2 points the @FA_PGMOL must be held accountable. They screwed us once and got us relegated, and now may see us miss out on Europe.”

AFC Bournemouth now sit 10th in the Premier League table with just four games left to play. An eighth-place finish could be enough for a spot in the UEFA Conference League next season, but that depends on other results – notably, Crystal Palace not beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final.

The Broader Debate: VAR’s Place in the Premier League

AFC Bournemouth v Manchester City – Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final

This latest controversy only adds fuel to the ongoing debate about the use of VAR in the English top flight. Critics argue that the system, designed to reduce human error, has instead introduced inconsistency, confusion, and – in Bournemouth’s case – heartbreak.

Many fans are questioning how such a pivotal decision could be reversed days later but not corrected in real time. As one fan bluntly put it: “What’s the point of VAR if it gets things wrong and there’s no consequence until it’s too late?”

PGMOL, the body responsible for Premier League referees, has yet to issue an apology. And for many Bournemouth supporters, a simple red card reversal isn’t enough.

@thecherries tweeted: “Any apology from @FA_PGMOL? Didn’t think so.”

What Next for Bournemouth?

Despite the setback, Bournemouth still have everything to play for. Their next fixture comes against title-chasing Arsenal this Saturday – a daunting test, but one that could reignite their European hopes with a result.

Crucially, Evanilson will be available for selection after having his suspension lifted. The Brazilian forward has been a bright spot in the Cherries’ attack this season, and Iraola will be counting on his creativity and work rate to trouble the Gunners.

“We’ve got four cup finals left,” Iraola said. “We need to stay together, fight for every point, and see where it takes us. The belief is still strong in that dressing room.”

Conclusion: Injustice Leaves Sour Taste Despite FA Ruling

In football, emotions run high – especially when the stakes are this big. While the FA’s reversal of Evanilson’s red card may bring some validation, it does little to ease the pain of two dropped points in a crucial match. For Bournemouth and their fans, there’s a growing sense that they’ve been robbed of more than just a victory. They may have lost their shot at Europe.

And as long as VAR continues to make headlines for the wrong reasons, the debate over its place in the Premier League will rage on. For now, all Bournemouth can do is dust themselves off, refocus, and keep the fight alive.