Lisci defends Boyomo in controversial handball incident against Oviedo
Osasuna boss Alessio Lisci claims luck finally favoured his side in their dramatic late win over Real Oviedo, while questioning VAR's consistency on penalty decisions.
Osasuna manager Alessio Lisci reckons fortune finally smiled on his team after they snatched a dramatic injury-time victory, while questioning a controversial handball decision that went their way.
VAR controversy takes centre stage
The Italian gaffer was adamant about the match’s most contentious moment involving defender Boyomo: “For me, it’s not a penalty.” Lisci suggested it took courage from the VAR officials not to award a spot-kick, while pointedly noting his side hasn’t always benefited from similar decisions this season.
The handball incident sparked debate, but ultimately Osasuna escaped without punishment - a rare slice of good fortune according to their boss, who felt his team was due some luck after previous disappointments.
Dramatic late winner brings joy
Victor Muñoz’s 93rd-minute winner sent El Sadar into raptures, providing a massive boost for a team that’s had their fair share of bad breaks this season.
“It’s very important and I told the team they had to win for themselves,” Lisci explained. “The other day they deserved more… in the end, they deserved a joy like this.”
The atmosphere at El Sadar clearly played its part too, with Lisci praising the supporters who stuck with the team “until the last minute helping us, it’s incredible.”
Defensive concerns despite victory
Despite the jubilation, Lisci acknowledged defensive frailties after conceding twice from set-pieces:
- A stunning header from Fede Viñas that Lisci described as “incredible”
- A “dirty” second goal where Osasuna could have better contained Hassan’s delivery
The manager also explained his decision to start Herrando ahead of Boyomo, citing the need for more aerial presence against the physical threat posed by Oviedo’s attackers.
“Jorge Herrando is on an upward trajectory,” Lisci noted, adding that the defender’s height was crucial when Osasuna play with a back four, which reduces their overall aerial presence.
The victory provides a welcome boost for Osasuna, who’ve now turned their bread and butter into three points in the most dramatic fashion possible.