Afcon viewers in disbelief at ‘worst refereeing decision they’ve ever seen’ as forgotten ex-Arsenal star booked for dive

AFRICA CUP OF NATION viewers were left in disbelief after Nicolas Pepe was booked for diving after being wiped out.

The former Arsenal forward started for the Ivory Coast against Senegal in the round of 16 tie.

AFCON viewers were left in disbelief after Nicolas Pepe was booked for diving after being wiped out

Habib Diallo put Senegal ahead after just four minutes but the Ivorians pushed for a leveller.

And they were initially denied the chance to do so after Pepe was taken out by ex-Chelsea stopper Edouard Mendy.

Replays showed Pepe flicking the ball over Mendy before being taken out off his feet.

Amazingly, not only did the on-field referee penalise the forward for diving, he was even shown a yellow.

Thankfully, the decision was overturned by VAR and Franck Kessie equalised from the spot – but fans were still in disbelief.

One said: “How the referee didn’t see that as a penalty is worrying.”

Another added: “Booking Pepe for diving there might actually be the worst refereeing decision I’ve ever seen.”

One fumed: “One of the worst refereeing decisions ever. Truly incredible. VAR saves the day.”

Another raged: “The fact he booked the Ivory Coast player for diving there might be the worst decision I have ever seen.”