The phrase "controversial circumstances" means that there is a situation or event that is causing disagreement, debate, or different opinions among people. Full definition
Southampton levelled matters in controversial circumstances in the final minute of the half as James Ward - Prowse chased down a lost cause near the right touchline, before appearing to barge Zaha over. (skysports.com)
Chief Sam - Sumana, who was dismissed under controversial circumstances in 2015, informed the former President that his delegation comprised leaders drawn from several political groups in Sierra Leone and the diaspora, who had decided to come together as a coalition to contest the country's next election. (ghanapoliticsonline.com)
The ex-Arsenal prodigy Alex Oxlade - Chamberlain moved to Liverpool under controversial circumstances after playing rubbish for Arsenal in our meeting at the Emirates in the early stages of the season. (justarsenal.com)