Thomas Tuchel launched a scathing attack on the match officials after England's dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup quarter-finals at the Azteca Stadium. The England boss was furious with two VAR interventions that went against his team, calling the refereeing 'not good enough'.
VAR controversies mar England's win
England secured a thrilling win thanks to a brace from Jude Bellingham and a Harry Kane penalty, but the match was overshadowed by contentious decisions. Defender Jarell Quansah was sent off in the second half after a VAR review upgraded his yellow card to a red for a poor tackle. Referee Alireza Faghani had initially not even awarded a foul. Later, VAR again intervened to award Mexico a penalty after an infringement in the England box, setting up a tense finish.
Tuchel's post-match outburst
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Tuchel did not hold back. 'Just not good enough. The referees just aren't good enough, fourth officials just not good enough. It's the bottom line,' he said. He questioned the VAR team's composition, noting that all three VAR officials were from South America. 'Did I see that right? Three people on the VAR from South America, a match like this? I could be wrong, if this is correct... VAR overturns a clear and obvious mistake for the penalty, absolutely not. VAR gets involved. He didn't overturn a yellow into a red, he didn't even give the foul he then overturned a decision that he didn't give as a foul.'
Impact on England's World Cup campaign
Despite the controversy, England advanced to the semi-finals where they will face Norway. The win keeps their World Cup hopes alive, but Tuchel's frustration with the officiating is likely to fuel debate about VAR's role in the tournament.
