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The tense period during VAR reviews when everyone waits to see if a goal stands or gets disallowed. Named after the literal thing fans do. Games now have these long pauses where nobody knows what's happening, the referee draws a rectangle in the air, and then you find out if you're celebrating or mourning. Changed the rhythm of how goals are experienced.
Liverpool fans became experts at holding their breath after VAR arrived - countless Salah and Firmino goals went to lengthy reviews for possible offside or handball, and the celebrations could only truly begin once the referee pointed to the center circle.
Robbie
Jan 30, 2026
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