FIFA explains World Cup ruling that led to controversial disallowed Germany goal
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The screen shows that a goal by Germany's Jonathan Tah (4) was disqualified after a VAR check during the World Cup round of 32 football match between Germany and Paraguay in Foxborough, Mass., near Boston, Monday, June 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
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Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill (12) fails to save a goal that was disallowed by Germany's Jonathan Tah (4) as Paraguay's Antonio Sanabria (9) looks on during the World Cup round of 32 football match between Germany and Paraguay in Foxborough, Mass., near Boston, Monday, June 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Mark Stockwell)
ATLANTA (AP) — FIFA explained on Tuesday the tighter regulations that resulted in Germany having a potentially game-winning goal disallowed in its shock elimination from the World Cup.
Defender Jonathan Tah’s headed goal in extra time against Paraguay on Monday was ruled out after a video review because of a foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Replays showed Germany’s Waldemar Anton push Gill to the ground, but the minimal contact led to criticism of the decision.
Germany went on to lose the round of 32 game in a penalty shootout, with Tah firing a decisive spot kick over the bar.
FIFA’s referees chief Pierluigi Collina said officials had been told to punish incidents when players try to block opponents and make no attempt to play the ball, especially where goalkeepers are concerned.
“Although keeping a position is not a foul per se, when an attacking player is not interested in the ball and deliberately moves, even marginally, with the clear intention of obstructing opponents’ movement and prevents him from defending, then referees, and VAR when needed, should carefully analyze the incident and intervene,” Collina said.
“This is especially the case when the tactic aims to prevent the opposing goalkeeper from being able to defend the goal.
“Coaches and players were informed, so it should come as no surprise that referees will punish these fouls.”
Collina said moves to curb time-wasting had been successful.
There are now time limits on goal kicks, throw-ins, and substitutions, while players are forced to leave the field for one minute after an injury.
“These measures have all been very effective and unanimously considered as very positive innovations,” Collina said.
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