EXPLAINED: Why Liverpool were awarded VAR penalty vs Girona in Champions League

Liverpool struggled to break down Girona in the Champions League on Tuesday night but were given a boost with a second-half penalty.

Mohamed Salah stepped forward to score from the spot on the hour, having missed on his previous attempt in the competition against Real Madrid.

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The goal put Liverpool ahead on a night when they were initially puzzled by Michel and his Girona side who are Champions League debutants.

The turning point in the encounter came during the second half after a scoreless first stanza.

On the hour mark, Luis Diaz was attempting to control the ball inside the Girona penalty box.

Van de Beek clips Diaz's heel

He was approached from behind by Donny van de Beek, who joined Girona after a torrid spell at Manchester United.

The Dutchman attempted to play the ball from an awkward angle behind Diaz and in doing so he made contact with Diaz's standing leg.

The contact was sufficient between the two to knock Diaz's boot off but matchday official Benoit Bestien initially waved away a spot-kick, telling Diaz to get back to his feet.

However, after consultation with the two captains he was recommended to have a look at the incident again by VAR Benoit Millot.

The Frenchman made his way to the side of the pitch to review the incident and having done so he decided to overturn his decision, pointing to the spot.

"Decision overturned: penalty awarded Penalty - foul Girona's player, No6, stepped on the opponent's heel while attempting to play the ball," a statement on UEFA.com said.

Liverpool will be relieved, having now won six out of six in the Champions League group phase this season.

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