Euro 2024 has been filled with dramatic moments, controversial decisions, and stunning upsets as the tournament enters the knockout stages. From dramatic comebacks and VAR controversies to pitch invasions and a lightning-struck stadium, the tournament has provided plenty of excitement for fans.
Cody Gakpo’s goal for the Netherlands against Romania in the Euro 2024 Round of 16 was ruled offside by VAR, despite initial celebrations from the Dutch fans. The goal was initially deemed valid, but after a VAR check, Gakpo was found to be marginally ahead of Radu Dragusin when the ball was played.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign hit a snag in the round of 16 against Slovakia, with a controversial VAR decision denying them an early goal. Ivan Schranz put Slovakia ahead with his third goal of the tournament, while England struggled to create chances, failing to register a shot on target in the first half.
Denmark was denied a goal due to an offside call by VAR, while Kai Havertz converted a penalty after a handball offense by Joachim Andersen, giving Germany the lead in the match.
Romelu Lukaku’s goal against Romania in Belgium’s Euro 2024 match was ruled offside by VAR, marking the third time his goal was disallowed by VAR in this tournament. This frustrating incident highlights the growing role of VAR in modern football and its impact on key moments in matches.
Georgia and Czechia played out a 1-1 draw in a match heavily influenced by VAR decisions. Georgia scored first through a penalty awarded after a lengthy review, while Czechia equalized in the second half.
Czechia’s celebrations for a 1-0 lead against Georgia in their Euro 2024 Group F match were cut short as VAR intervened and disallowed Adam Hlozek’s goal due to a handball violation. The Snickometer technology confirmed the hand contact before the ball went into the net, leaving Czechia third in Group F and Georgia at the bottom.
The Netherlands’ first goal against France in their Euro 2024 Group D match was controversially ruled out by the referee after a VAR review. Xavi Simons’ shot initially appeared to give the Dutch the lead, but the linesman flagged for offside. After consulting with VAR, the referee ultimately decided the goal should be disallowed due to Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries obstructing the French goalkeeper’s view.
Slovakia secured a shock 1-0 victory over Belgium in their Group E encounter at the Frankfurt Arena, thanks to an early goal from Ivan Schranz. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Belgium failed to capitalize on their opportunities, with Romelu Lukaku missing several gilt-edged scoring opportunities and having two goals ruled out by VAR.
Premier League referees may soon be allowed to explain some of their decisions to the crowd inside a stadium for the first time from next season. World football’s lawmakers, IFAB, have rules that forbid any discussions between match officials to be played live inside a stadium. However, the body responsible for appointing Premier League referees, Professional Game Match Officials Limited [PGMOL], is pushing for that to change in the future.
