Croatia's football federation has demanded answers from FIFA after a controversial VAR decision knocked them out of the World Cup. The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) sent a formal letter to FIFA seeking clarification on the incident, but has yet to receive a response.
Controversial Goal Disallowed
Croatia lost 2-1 to Portugal in the round of 32, but believed they had equalised through Josko Gvardiol. The goal was initially allowed by the referee, but after a VAR check, it was ruled out for offside. The VAR determined that the ball had brushed Croatian forward Igor Matanovic before deflecting off Portugal's Renato Veiga.
The Adidas ball used at the World Cup contains microchip technology that registers contact from players. This chip identified a sound wave as the ball passed Matanovic, leading to the goal being overturned.
Federation Seeks Explanation
HNS technical director Stipe Pletikosa revealed that federation president Marijan Kustic sent a letter to FIFA requesting an explanation. "We took an official position and immediately the day after the incident with Portugal, President Kustić sent a harsh letter to FIFA, requesting insight into the VAR communication regarding that infamous chip. We have not received a response to this day," Pletikosa told RTL.
Pletikosa criticised FIFA for not protecting the game. "FIFA has stopped protecting football for the first time. It has had better and darker periods, but it has always protected the game. I'm not talking about referees, they will always make mistakes, it's a normal and integral part of the game."
Half-Time Break Also Questioned
Pletikosa also raised concerns about the half-time break during Croatia's group-stage match against England. He described an 18-minute half-time interval as excessive. "The hydration break, the chips, the 18 minutes of half-time in the Croatia-England game... it has gone so far that the game is no longer protected," he said.
England defeated Croatia 4-2 in that match and are now preparing to face Argentina in the semi-final.
