Fifa explains decision to disallow Germany goal against Paraguay

Fifa has clarified the decision to disallow a Germany goal during their World Cup last-32 match against Paraguay, stating that coaches and players had been informed before the tournament that such fouls would be penalized.

The incident occurred in extra time when Jonathan Tah thought he had given Germany a 2-1 lead. However, following a review by the video assistant referee (VAR), referee Jalal Jayed disallowed the goal because Waldemar Anton was judged to have fouled Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, and Paraguay won 4-3 on penalties. Tah missed his spot-kick, firing over the bar, allowing Jose Canale to score the decisive penalty.

Background on the Foul

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann criticized the decision, saying: "In my opinion, this foul was not a real foul; it was actually a joke that his goal was disallowed." However, Pierluigi Collina, chairman of Fifa's referees committee, defended the call. He explained that officials had been instructed to punish incidents where attacking players block opponents without attempting to play the ball, particularly when goalkeepers are involved.

"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 analyse 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."

Impact on Germany

The defeat marked Germany's first loss in a World Cup penalty shootout, a significant moment for the four-time champions. The result also raises questions about Nagelsmann's future as head coach, with some media outlets describing it as Germany's "next football nightmare."

Next Match for Paraguay

Paraguay will now face two-time champions France in the last 16, scheduled for Saturday in Philadelphia at 22:00 BST.