FIFA’s coverage of the World Cup continues to make headlines, providing viewers with valuable insight into Senegal vs. Iraq.
TV camera placement at the World Cup provided valuable insight into Anthony Taylor’s VAR debate. (Image: Getty Images)
Premier League and World Cup referee Anthony Taylor witnessed the VAR check being broadcast live on TV due to FIFA’s error. A television camera was set up next to a monitor at Canada’s Toronto Stadium and the Manchester-born official could be heard talking to colleagues in the VAR room.
The 47-year-old endured a busy afternoon in charge of the final group stage match between Senegal and Iraq. The African Cup of Nations winners needed a strong win to improve their chances of progressing to the knockout stages with Trapdoor in third place, but after 10 minutes they had already had a goal and a red card.
Iraqi defender Levin Suraka was initially shown a yellow card for pulling down former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane as he ran in front of goal. However, Taylor was flagged down by the monitor and was given a red card.
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Viewers were given the privileged opportunity to hear the referee interact with the video assistant referee and replay director inside the hub.
Taylor can be heard saying: “Is there a player on the far side who goes to the ball? Play for me. Then you touch the attacker, take a step forward and he shoots on goal, right?”
“The player on the far side never approaches the ball before shooting.”
Speaking later on PA to confirm the decision, he said: “After consideration, Iraq’s number two engaged in a deliberate holding offense, denying a clear scoring opportunity.
“My final decision is a red card because there is no defender to cover.”
Levin Slaka was sent off for a foul on Liverpool hero Sadio Mane and Premier League referee Anthony Taylor handed him his marching orders. (Image: FIFA via Getty Images)
Senegal changed their style in the second half and defeated Iraq with the man advantage. Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead before Pape Gueye’s double led to dusk and Everton’s Iliman Ndiay scored with eight minutes remaining.
The 5-goal rout gave them a +2 goal difference, earned them their first point, and moved them from 3rd place to 5th place.
Scotland’s hopes of reaching the World Cup finals are one step away after losing 3-0 to Brazil, adding to the uncertainty. Steve Clarke’s side need a favorable result to slip into the last 32 and reach the finals of the prestigious tournament for the first time.
However, Senegal’s resounding victory means Scotland fall outside of the top eight, behind Algeria, who face Austria on Sunday morning (3am).
