Anthony Taylor, recently appointed to the Turkish Football Federation’s (TFF) Elite Referee Directorate according to reporting by Umut Eken, stated during an online training session that a VAR intervention and a red card were necessary for a controversial slapping incident during the Alanyaspor-Beşiktaş match.
VAR Intervention Disputed in Alanyaspor vs. Beşiktaş Match
The controversy centers on a physical altercation during the fixture between Alanyaspor and Beşiktaş. During the online training session reviewing the second week of league fixtures, Anthony Taylor addressed the incident directly. According to the reporting, Taylor evaluated the play by stating, “VAR’s responsibility. VAR intervention was necessary. It was a situation that required a red card.”
Did you know? Anthony Taylor was brought to the Elite Referee Directorate by the TFF.
Clashing Views Between Anthony Taylor and Ferhat Gündoğdu
Taylor’s technical breakdown starkly contrasted with the stance previously taken by MHK President Ferhat Gündoğdu. Following the match, Gündoğdu told journalist Taner Karaman that the incident was open to interpretation and therefore fell outside the scope of VAR intervention parameters.

Beşiktaş Leadership Demands MHK Resignation
Beşiktaş President Serdal Adalı addressed the situation following a TFF meeting, launching a direct critique of the MHK leadership.
“I am tired of coming to the TFF when there is a problem,” Adalı stated during his post-meeting address. “Same things again. Again ‘You are right, what is necessary will be done’ words. As long as the MHK President stays here, unfortunately, Turkish football will not take a step forward.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Anthony Taylor in the context of the TFF?
Anthony Taylor serves in the Elite Referee Directorate for the Turkish Football Federation, providing expert review and training on controversial match decisions.
What was the specific ruling on the Alanyaspor-Beşiktaş incident?
According to Anthony Taylor’s review, the slapping incident warranted a VAR intervention and a direct red card.
Why did Beşiktaş President Serdal Adalı call for resignations?
Serdal Adalı criticized the TFF and demanded the resignation of MHK President Ferhat Gündoğdu, stating that Turkish football cannot progress under the current leadership.
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