Why is Piotr Zielinski angry at referee Felix Zwayer?

Zielinski is angry because he believes a late penalty awarded to Liverpool in their Champions League match against Inter Milan was an incorrect call.

What was the controversial penalty incident in the Inter vs Liverpool match?

Florian Wirtz went down in the box following a tackle by Alessandro Bastoni, leading to a penalty being awarded after a VAR review by referee Felix Zwayer.

How has the loss to Liverpool affected Inter Milan's Champions League campaign?

The defeat, stemming from a controversial penalty, has significantly compromised Inter Milan's chances of securing a top-eight finish in the Champions League.

Home / Sports / Late Penalty Sinks Inter; Zielinski Fumes at Ref

Late Penalty Sinks Inter; Zielinski Fumes at Ref

10 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Zielinski criticized referee Felix Zwayer for a late penalty call.
He argued the foul on Wirtz in the box was not a penalty.
Inter's Champions League hopes are now significantly compromised.

Late Penalty Sinks Inter; Zielinski Fumes at Ref

Inter Milan midfielder Piotr Zielinski has strongly criticized referee Felix Zwayer following a contentious Champions League loss to Liverpool. Zielinski voiced his disappointment and anger, stating that the late penalty awarded to Liverpool was not a justifiable call from his viewpoint during the match. He emphasized that if such incidents are considered fouls, then virtually every challenge could result in a penalty.

The controversial decision by Zwayer, who initially waved play on before consulting VAR, led to Dominik Szoboszlai converting the penalty. This penalty ultimately condemned Inter to a second successive European defeat and has severely impacted their aspirations of reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the second consecutive season.

Zielinski reiterated his dismay, noting that while the team played well, they lacked finishing power. He expressed frustration with the officiating and acknowledged the demanding schedule the team faces. Looking ahead, Inter must now refocus on their domestic commitments, including a tough away fixture against Genoa, before resuming their Champions League campaign in January.