Ilkay Gundogan, the former Germany football star, expressed his frustrations regarding Germany’s surprising loss to Paraguay in the World Cup Round of 32, which ended in a penalty shootout.
He was particularly upset about the disallowed goal by Jonathan Tarr during extra time, which he believed could have clinched the game for Germany.
“The team’s performance today definitely doesn’t need embellishment… but, seriously, what was that VAR decision?” Gundogan remarked on his social media account.
He continued, “In the Premier League, when similar situations arise, those in charge just seem jaded. It’s really disappointing, and sadly, we couldn’t find our rhythm over the match’s full 120 minutes.”
Tarr’s header in the 105th minute appeared to give Germany a 2-1 advantage late in the match, but the referee ruled it out, citing an infringement on Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gil by defender Waldemar Anton.
Gundogan wasn’t alone in his disagreement with the decision; former Premier League referee Graham Scott also believed the goal should have stood.
Scott noted, “Yes, the goalkeeper was slightly impeded by Anton, but such contact is typical. Players are entitled to their space, and merely interfering with an opponent does not constitute a foul.”
Additionally, former England captain Alan Shearer criticized the decision to disallow the goal as “naive,” stating, “Sure, there’s contact, but it’s a contact sport.”
Ultimately, Paraguay eliminated Germany in the penalty shootout, marking another early exit for the team, who hasn’t progressed past the Round of 16 since their World Cup victory in 2014.
