Once again, a FIFA World Cup game had technology in the middle of its controversy, as the winning goal for Japan against Germany could have easily been disallowed by VAR referees.
The Japanese scored twice in a matter of minutes to turn the tide in their favor, but the second goal had a hue of controversy since there were no clear angles for all broadcast cameras to determine if the ball had left the pitch before Ao Tanaka found the back of Spain's net. Since FIFA indicates that an action must be left as it stands if there is no clear evidence to support a change, the goal was allowed by referee Victor Gomes.
Have a look at the goal here (Image might be geo-restricted).
TWO FOR JAPAN
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) December 1, 2022
Take another look at the goal that put Japan on top vs Spain pic.twitter.com/kyH3k6Hsn8
Spain's coach Luis Enrique added to the controversy by stating he had not seen any pictures where the ball could be determined to be in or out.
"I think that the pic that's out there may be manipulated," Luis Enrique stated
Spain will no go on to face Morocco in the Round of 16 of the tournament after going through in second place.