ATLANTA (AP) – FIFA on Tuesday explained tightened regulations that resulted in Germany’s potential game-winning goal being disallowed. World Cup shock defeat.
A headed goal by defender Jonathan Tarr in extra time against Paraguay on Monday was ruled out due to a foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gil after a video review.
Replays showed Germany’s Waldemar Anton pushing Gil to the ground, but the contact was minimal, leading to criticism of the decision.
Germany was eliminated in the round of 32. penalty shootoutTarr fired the decisive spot kick over the bar.
FIFA referee chief Pierluigi Collina said authorities had been told to punish players for attempting to block opponents or refusing to play the ball, especially when goalkeepers are involved.
Colina said: “Holding one’s position is not a foul per se, but if an attacking player is not interested in the ball and deliberately moves even slightly with the clear intention of interfering with the opponent’s movement and impeding the defence, the referee and, if necessary, VAR should carefully analyze the incident and intervene.” “This is especially true in the case of tactics aimed at preventing the opposing goalkeeper from defending his goal.
“The coaches and players were informed, so it’s not surprising that the officials would penalize these fouls.”
Colina said the move to curb time wasting has worked.
Currently, there are time limits on goal kicks, throw-ins and substitutions, and players are forced to leave the field for one minute after sustaining an injury.
“All of these measures are unanimously considered to be very effective and very positive innovations,” Colina said.
___
James Robson is https://x.com/James Saran Robson
___
See more of AP’s World Cup coverage here
