FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina has defended the VAR decision to rule out Germany's late winner against Paraguay in the World Cup round of 32, dismissing coach Julian Nagelsmann's claim that the call was a 'scandal'. Germany believed they had secured their place in the round of 16 when Jonathan Tah headed home late on, but the goal was disallowed after referee review determined that German defender Waldemar Anton obstructed Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Collina Explains VAR Ruling
In a statement, Collina said: 'Although keeping a position is not a foul per se, when an attacking player is not interested in the ball and deliberately moves, even marginally, with the clear intention of obstructing opponents' movement and prevents him from defending, then referees, and VAR when needed, should carefully analyse the incident and intervene. This is especially the case when the tactic aims to prevent the opposing goalkeeper from being able to defend the goal. Coaches and players were informed so it should come as no surprise that referees will punish these fouls.'
Nagelsmann's Fury
Nagelsmann, whose team were eliminated on penalties after the disallowed goal, did not hold back in his post-match press conference. 'It's a scandal that he called that off. It's a complete scandal. There are games you have to win dirty. We would have won this one dirty,' he said. Germany's exit via a penalty shootout marked a first in their World Cup history, having never previously been eliminated via spot-kicks. Kai Havertz, Nico Woltemade, and Tah all failed to convert their penalties, while Paraguay held their nerve to claim their first ever victory in the knockout stages.
Nagelsmann's Future Uncertain
The result leaves Nagelsmann's future as Germany coach shrouded in uncertainty. Despite the disappointment, he made clear he has no intention of resigning. 'I want to continue. I'm ready. But in football, you don't have everything in your own hands. If the DFB wants me to, I'd be very happy to prepare for the European Championship and the Nations League. If they don't want me to, they have to tell me,' he said.
Paraguay's Historic Win
Paraguay's victory was their first ever in a World Cup knockout stage. They will now face an all-conquering France side in the round of 16, looking to replicate their remarkable achievement.
