Understanding Japan's 'Godline GOAL', Why Is VAR Expressing The Ball Not Out Yet?

JAKARTA Ao Tanaka's goal, which became the determinant of Japan's 2-1 victory over Spain in the last match of Group E of the 2022 World Cup, Qatar, is still overshadowed by controversy.

Many think that the video assistant referee (VAR) mistakenly approved the goal scored in the 51st minute. The following is an explanation that can be a bright spot for the polemic around the controversial goal.

The goal had undergone a long VAR examination, after being ruled out by the linesman and referee. They thought the ball had crossed the line before

In the replay, it was also quite clear that the ball had come out of the game. However, after VAR intervention, the referee blew the whistle and pointed to the center of the field as a sign that the goal was valid.

Investigate a calibaration, it turns out that the results of the VAR examination confirm that the ball has not completely crossed the sidelines. This is different from various photos circulating on social media which show all the balls have left the arena.

"I've seen photos that must have been tampered with, it's impossible for this photo to be genuine. It must be manipulated," said Spain coach Luis Enrique after the match as reported by Sport Star.

I feel like something suspicious is going on when VAR spends a lot of time deciding [at least that goal]. I have nothing to say, "The former Barcelona coach added.

It must be understood that although the ball may be placed on the ground outside the touchline, the line of reference is within the permitted limits. Therefore, part of the ball is on the edge of the field so the official declared it a legitimate goal.

FIFA in its explanation claims that the ball curvature' remains so that the ball is deemed not to have come out of the game that was taking place at that time.

According to the International Football Association Council (IFAB), which determines the rules in football's game, the ball comes out when the whole has crossed the line or touch line on the ground or in the air.

The goal turned out to be one of the causes of Germany's elimination from the quadrennial tournament despite securing a 4-2 victory against Costa Rica in the last match.

Germany cannot advance to the Round of 16. Japan, on the other hand, posted their place in the knockout system as winners of Group E, followed by Spain positioning runner up.