Controversial VAR Call Decides Match Outcome
A significant VAR decision in Toronto has prolonged Cristiano Ronaldo’s involvement in the World Cup 2026, while seemingly bringing an end to Luka Modric’s tournament career. The controversy arose during the match between Portugal and Croatia, when a late equaliser from Josko Gvardiol for Croatia was disallowed after a review using advanced ball technology. This decision sparked strong reactions from Croatian fans and their manager.
The incident occurred in the 103rd minute, with Croatia trailing 2-1. Gvardiol’s tap-in initially led to widespread celebrations among the Croatian team and supporters. However, the joy was short-lived as the video assistant referee, Premier League official Jarred Gillett, initiated a check for offside. The review focused on whether Igor Matanovic had touched the ball in the build-up to the goal.
Norwegian referee Espen Eskas, after reviewing replays, ultimately ruled out the goal. The decision was supported by ‘Snicko’ technology, typically associated with cricket, which indicated a touch on the ball. This technology, integrated into the Adidas Trionda match ball, uses a microchip to detect every touch, providing real-time data to the VAR. FIFA later released a statement confirming that the connected ball technology proved Matanovic made contact with the ball, leading to the offside call.
Managerial Reactions and Player Futures
The disallowed goal led to chaotic scenes, with Croatian fans throwing plastic bottles onto the pitch in protest as their World Cup hopes were dashed. Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic expressed his frustration in the post-match news conference, stating, “I will not comment much about it but I will say the refereeing was very bad.” He further criticised the impact of VAR, saying, “VAR kills emotions, it kills everything within you. We have gone too far with VAR.”
In contrast, Portugal boss Roberto Martinez offered a different perspective. He acknowledged the unfortunate outcome for one of the teams but maintained that the decision was clear. Martinez highlighted the precision of the ball’s embedded chip and sensor in detecting the touch. Former Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann also supported the decision, confirming that the ‘Snicko’ technology provided 100% proof of Matanovic’s flick-on, making the player offside when the ball was last played by a teammate.
For Luka Modric, the Croatian legend, this match likely marked his final World Cup appearance. He was seen being consoled by his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo after the final whistle. Modric had recently reached his 200th appearance for the national team in Toronto on June 24, when Croatia defeated Panama 1-0 in a group game. Former Brazil midfielder Lucas Leiva described Modric as a “legend of the game” and expressed sadness for his exit.
Ronaldo’s Rollercoaster Match and Portugal’s Progression
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for Cristiano Ronaldo. After Ivan Perisic put Croatia ahead, Ronaldo had an equaliser disallowed for a tight offside call. He then successfully converted a penalty, scoring his first ever World Cup knockout goal in what is his sixth tournament. Ronaldo was substituted in the 81st minute of his 26th World Cup match, appearing visibly disappointed.
However, his disappointment turned to joy when Goncalo Ramos scored in the 94th minute, putting Portugal 2-1 ahead, just before Croatia’s disallowed goal. This victory ensures Ronaldo’s continued participation in the tournament, despite earlier speculation about his international future. His sister had even suggested that this tournament might be his “last dance.”
Portugal will now advance to face Spain in the last 16. This upcoming match is a replay of the 2025 Nations League final, where Ronaldo’s side emerged victorious against the European champions. The encounter is scheduled to take place in Dallas on July 6.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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