Copa America: Did DeAndre Yedlin commit a handball against Colombia? (Video)

Colombia doubled their lead on the penalty, but did DeAndre Yedlin commit a handball in the box?

The USMNT had ample chances in the first half to tie the game at one a piece. Instead, their final passes broke down and their chances were off target. Colombia capitalized on the counter attack as a cross was played into the box where it his DeAndre Yedlin’s body and the center official pointed to the spot. However, was it a penalty kick based on the letter of the law?

Referees have a tough job of deciding if something is a handball or not especially in the box. The pace of the game doesn’t do any favors for the officials especially in these crucial moments. With plays like handballs, it’s hard to judge intent and the letter of the law has many grey areas. In this case though, the official made the right call by calling Yedlin for a handball in the box.

As shown above, Yedlin’s arm is not in a natural position when the ball hits is hand. The ball does not hit the shoulder, which is not considered part of the arm. Likewise, Yedlin may not have intended to block the ball with his arm or hand, but he turned his body and his actions blocked the ball from going on frame.

All in all, many will argue whether or not the USMNT should be called for a penalty kick in this case. The debate will always be there due to the gray areas of the law, but the referee made the right call by pointing to the spot and awarding Colombia a penalty. It’s a critical call no matter the match, but the USMNT won’t be as mad at the official when they see the replay themselves after the match.

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