‘Osimhen's elbow not violent conduct’ - Ex-Italian referee claims yellow card decision was the right call

Antonio Sanabria's sensational overhead kick goal cancelled Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's opener, leaving both teams with a point each.

In his 100th career appearance in Serie A, Victor Osimhen couldn't add to his tally of eleven goals for the season. 

However, his involvement in a controversial incident stole the spotlight. Despite a swipe at Alessandro Buongiorno's face during an aerial challenge in the first half, Osimhen was only shown a yellow card by referee Daniele Orsato.

The decision not to issue a straight red card sparked controversy, with many questioning the use of VAR in the incident. 

Former referee turned pundit, Luca Marelli, defended Orsato's decision, stating, speaking to DAZN via Tuttomercatoweb, "Osimhen's elbow to Buongiorno's face is imprudence and not violent conduct. 

“Orsato was good at noticing the high elbow, perhaps also thanks to the fourth official. Osimhen doesn't notice Buongiorno and gives him an involuntary elbow, so it's a reckless gesture and the yellow card is right."

This incident adds to Osimhen's season's storyline, as he had previously received a red card in Napoli's match against AS Roma before joining the Nigeria squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.