Ronald Koeman Criticises VAR After Contentious Penalty in Euro 2024 Semi-Final.
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has criticised the use of video assistant referees (VAR) after England were awarded a controversial penalty in the tense Euro 2024 semi-final on Wednesday.
The Netherlands initially took the lead with a powerful strike from Xavi Simons. However, the game turned when Harry Kane was fouled by Denzel Dumfries after the England captain had already shot over the bar. No penalty was given initially, but referee Felix Zwayer pointed to the spot after being advised to review the incident by VAR.
Kane converted the penalty to level the score, and substitute Ollie Watkins scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner, sending England to Sunday’s final against Spain.
“In my opinion, it should not have been a penalty,” said Koeman. “He kicked the ball and the boots touched. I think that we cannot play properly and this is due to VAR. It really breaks football.”
Former England defender and ITV pundit Gary Neville supported Koeman’s view. “As a defender, I think it’s an absolutely disgraceful decision,” he said. “There’s no way that was a penalty. He just goes in naturally to block the shot. It’s not a penalty for me.”
Ex-England striker Alan Shearer also shared his thoughts on BBC Radio 5 Live, saying: “There is no doubt that there is contact, but the defender [Dumfries] is trying to block the ball. The follow-through from Harry Kane makes the connection and I didn’t think it was a howler to be turned over.”
Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk felt the penalty decision was pivotal. “I think the penalty moment is a big moment; England gained some confidence from it,” he said. “So many decisions didn’t go our way, but I don’t want to speak about the referee.”
The match’s controversial outcome has sparked debate over VAR’s role in modern football, with many questioning whether it disrupts the flow and fairness of the game.
