Explainer: How the controversial Video Assistant Referee (VAR) really works

Tottenham Hotspur's English striker Harry Kane was fouled in the penalty area under a challenge from Newcastle United's English defender Jamaal Lascelles but after a VAR (Video Assistant referee) review no penalty is the decision shown on the scoreboard during the English Premier League football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, on August 25, 2019. (Photo by Daniel LEAL-OLIVAS / AFP)

Video Assistant Referee or what is popularly known as VAR is one of the most controversial systems introduced in football.  

VAR is basically a match official in association football who reviews decisions made by the head referee with the use of video footage and a headset for communication.