England fans were left fuming after Croatia's second equalizer was allowed to stand during their World Cup clash, with many initially convinced the scorer had been offside. However, VAR revealed an optical illusion that changed everything.
The Controversial Goal
Croatia drew level at 2-2 just before half-time in Dallas when Ivan Perišić played a perfectly timed pass for Petar Musa to finish off an impressive move. Television replays appeared to show Perišić straying beyond the last defender in the build-up, prompting confusion among viewers.
The Optical Illusion
Closer inspection revealed that England defender Ezri Konsa had an outstretched foot behind the Croatian attacker. Konsa's orange boot, barely visible in some broadcast angles, was enough to keep Perišić onside and ensure the goal stood following a VAR review, reports The Sun.
Fan Reactions
One fan wrote: "Thought that 2nd Croatia goal was offside, but I think it's Konsa's leg or foot circled here played him onside. Imagine VAR checked and cleared quickly." Another questioned: "How is this not an offside for Croatia?" A third supporter wrongly predicted the decision would be overturned, posting: "Yeah that Croatia goal is coming off, they were offside."
VAR Confirmation
Official VAR graphics later confirmed that only Perišić's left arm was beyond Konsa's foot, with arms not considered when determining offside positions. As a result, the goal was correctly awarded, capping an entertaining first half in the Group L encounter.
