Jurgen Klopp unleashed a furious rant after Germany were knocked out of the World Cup by Paraguay in a penalty shootout, following a controversial VAR decision that disallowed a stoppage-time winner. The former Liverpool manager, speaking on German TV, claimed the decision was so absurd that if it stood, Arsenal's Premier League title should be revoked.
VAR Drama Denies Germany Victory
Germany suffered their first-ever penalty shootout exit at a World Cup as South American underdogs Paraguay pulled off the tournament's biggest upset in the round of 32. Julio Enciso gave Paraguay a first-half lead before Kai Havertz equalised after the break. Germany dominated the second half and appeared to have snatched victory when Jonathan Tah headed home in stoppage time.
However, referee Jalal Jayed was called to the pitchside monitor to review a light foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill by Waldemar Anton. The official ruled that Anton had obstructed the keeper, disallowing the goal and sending the match to penalties.
Klopp's Explosive Reaction
Speaking on MagentaTV, Klopp said: "If the goal is illegal, then Arsenal won't be English champions. They've scored 60 per cent of their goals that way. Germany win the game when the ball goes in. So, of course, this is brutal."
Goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero for Paraguay, saving two German penalties before Jose Canale converted the decisive spot-kick to secure a stunning victory.
Nagelsmann and Shearer Join Criticism
Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, who was booked for his vehement protests, branded the ruling a 'joke'. Alan Shearer, commentating for the BBC, said: "I don't agree with that decision at all. The keeper falls to the ground on a slight touch and it's very soft. I thought it was a terrible decision. You have to understand it is a contact sport, the goalkeeper has conned the referee and the VAR. The way he went down was pathetic."
The disallowed goal sparked fierce debate in German media, with many questioning the consistency of VAR decisions. Germany's early exit marks a disappointing end to their World Cup campaign, while Paraguay advance to the next round.
