South African referee Victor Gomes’ controversial VAR decision highlighted Japan’s surprise 2-1 win over Spain at the FIFA World Cup on Thursday evening.
It all started in the 51st minute when Ao Tanaka scored from a tight near-post angle to put Japan in front in Qatar.
The Group E decisive game took place at a packed Khalifa International Stadium in Rayyan.
Victor Gomes consulted VAR official Fernando Guerrero after replayed seemed to show that the ball had crossed the line before Tanaka scored.
It appears Victor Gomes was convinced it was only part of the circumference of the ball that had crossed the line before the goal.
It seems the referee looked at another angle which TV viewers did not see.
VICTOR GOMES TELLS OFF SERGIO BUSQUETS
Victor Gomes, before awarding the goal, shrugged off pressure from Spaniard players led by captain Sergio Busquets.
The clean-shaven South African referee could be seen visibly telling the Barcelona midfielder to back-off.
Gomes’ decision to allow the goal torched celebrations among Japanese fans with some weeping openly in the terraces.
Spain had a dream start to the match with Alvaro Morata scoring in the 11th minute.
However, Ritsu Doan scored an equalizer for Japan before Tanaka’s controversial winner.
The Japanese side has been a sensation at the World Cup as they also caused a big upset beating Germany 2-1 in a Group E match.
Japan have since secured round-of-16 berth after finishing as group leaders joined by second-placed Spain.
Gomes decision to allow Japan’s second goal ignited a mixed reaction on social media.
Some fans thought the South African got his decision right while others felt otherwise.
WHAT FORMER PREMIER LEAGUE REFEREE MARK CLATTENBIRG SAY ABOUT GOMES’ DECISION
“As we see on this replay, yes, it is, it’s out of play,” former English Premier League referee Mark Clattenbirg said on Fox’s broadcast as quoted by Yahoo Sports.
“And therefore, it will be disallowed. … This will get chalked off.”
Zambian reporter Lucky Chama suggested that he had reservation with Gomes performance in the game.
“Victor Gomis the South African referee was compromised by VAR officials. Iyi ni betting influence,” Chama claimed.
Victor Gomes had compatriot Zakhele Siwela and Souru Pathsoane (Lesotho) as his assistants.
Rwandan Salima Mukansanga was the fourth official.
It was the second game in charge for the officiating panel from Africa after Gomes and company handled France’s 4-1 win over Australia last week.
Media reports in several media outlets in South Africa suggest that this could be his last World Cup as he is set to retire.
