NEWS · 01 Oct 2026
Why the penalty for Leah Williamson's handball was right
During Arsenal's Women's Champions League draw against Paris FC, defender Leah Williamson was involved in a strange incident that led to a penalty. The referee's decision to award the penalty was consistent with the Laws of the Game, recognising a deliberate handball in a critical moment.
Arsenal and Paris FC met in a Women’s Champions League group match that finished 1‑1. The game was closely contested, with both sides creating several chances before the final whistle.
In the 72nd minute, a tackle on Arsenal defender Leah Williamson caused the ball to strike her hand. The incident was immediately flagged by the referee, who saw the handball in the penalty area.
Law 12 of the Laws of the Game states that a deliberate handball inside the penalty area is a direct free‑kick. If the ball is on the goal line, a penalty kick is awarded, which is what the referee applied.
Because the handball was deliberate and occurred within the penalty area, the decision to award a penalty was the correct application of the rules. Analysts have defended the call as consistent with the Laws of the Game.
The penalty kept Arsenal from falling behind, and the match’s outcome has been debated. Nonetheless, the referee’s decision remains in line with the established regulations for handball in the penalty area.