Considering user request

The user sent a message in Chinese about a handball controversy involving Ekitike's assist, and it sounds like they might want news or a summary about that incident. This appears related to a football context, likely concerning French striker Hugo Ekitike. There’s no specific question, so I think I should ask for clarification. Should I provide a recap, explain the handball rule, or offer some analysis on the VAR protocol?Explaining handball rules

I think I should clarify how an assist can be affected by an accidental handball during the attacking phase. According to the Laws of the Game, if a player accidentally touches the ball with their hand or arm and scores, it’s considered a handball offense. However, the rules were updated in 2021, allowing accidental handball by a teammate in the buildup as long as the player who scores didn't handle the ball. So, accidental handball only matters immediately before scoring!Clarifying assist and handball rules

When Ekitike assists with an accidental handball, it’s important to know that this isn't automatically an offense unless his handball is deliberate or leads directly to a goal. The term "immediately after" means either the same player scores or has a clear chance right after the handball. If he gains possession using his arm, I’m unsure if that qualifies as "immediately after" when he just assists. It seems the focus is on the goal-scorer's action, creating some confusion!Explaining handball rules and VAR checks

In the 2021 revision of the rules, an accidental handball by a player doesn't automatically result in a penalty unless that player scores immediately after the handball. This change was made to soften penalties related to assists. VAR will check if the handball was deliberate and whether the goal comes from the same player. Factors include arm positioning, distance, and whether the handball deflected the ball. I think the user might want this nuanced explanation of the rules and VAR’s decision-making!Explaining VAR checks

I’ll create a concise explanation about what VAR checks regarding handball incidents. Here’s what I’m thinking:

• Point of contact
• Arm position (unnatural size)
• Distance/speed of the ball
• Deflection or last touch
• Offside or prior offenses (focus on handball)

For attackers, if an assisting player's accidental handball is no longer penalized unless they score. However, if that handball creates possession by using their arm, it might be considered deliberate.

If the user has a video clip or time reference, I could provide a ruling based on IFAB. What outcome do they prefer?