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Masked Fan Unplugs VAR Monitor at Münster–Hertha Match, Remote Review Awards Penalty

The home club has launched an investigation, describing the sabotage as a planned act.

Overview

  • Referee Felix Bickel was called to the pitchside screen in first‑half stoppage time but found it unplugged after a masked spectator entered the field from the active fan section.
  • Video official Katrin Rafalski completed the check from the VAR room in Cologne and confirmed a penalty, which Fabian Reese converted for Hertha.
  • Hertha beat Preußen Münster 2–1, with Jannis Heuer leveling after the break before Marten Winkler scored a stoppage‑time winner.
  • Preußen Münster said initial findings indicate the action was planned, noting a banner in the home section that read “Pull the plug on VAR.”
  • The club condemned the incident, announced immediate measures to prevent repeats, and said it will seek to identify and pursue those responsible; no culprit has been publicly named.