In a highly anticipated Group D matchup at the Euro 2024 tournament, the Netherlands and France played out a tense 0-0 draw that was marred by a controversial Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision.
The game’s defining moment came in the 69th minute when Xavi Simons thought he had given the Netherlands the lead with a well-taken strike. However, the goal was swiftly ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review.
The decision left the Dutch players and fans furious, as replays showed Denzel Dumfries, who was in an offside position, did not appear to be interfering with play or obstructing the French goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s line of sight.
“Once again Taylor and Attwell prove that English officials are the worst in Europe,” one frustrated fan wrote on social media, referring to the match officials.
The VAR review took over two-and-a-half minutes, the longest of the tournament so far, further angering supporters who felt the decision-making process lacked clarity and efficiency.
“Ideally, such calls should be promptly assessed to uphold the integrity of the game and validate the on-field officials’ judgment,” ESPN’s analysis noted.
The controversial call overshadowed an otherwise cagey affair, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. France’s star striker Kylian Mbappé was left on the bench after suffering a broken nose in the previous match, and his absence was felt as Antoine Griezmann squandered the best opportunities for the world champions.
The result leaves the Netherlands top of Group D on goal difference, with France second. However, the VAR drama will undoubtedly be the main talking point as the tournament heads into the final round of group stage matches.