Explore the most debated VAR calls in World Cup football history. From overturned goals to penalty drama, revisit controversial moments that changed matches.

Controversial VAR Decisions That Shook Up World Cup Matches

Few innovations in modern football have divided opinion quite like the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR). While it was introduced to make the game fairer and correct clear errors, the VAR system has also brought its share of controversy—especially during high-stakes tournaments like the FIFA World Cup.

VAR was officially introduced at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, aiming to assist referees in four key situations: goals, penalties, direct red cards, and mistaken identity. However, in practice, it has led to heated debates, questionable calls, and moments that shifted the course of entire tournaments.

In this article, we dive into some of the most controversial VAR decisions in World Cup history and how they changed the landscape of international football.

1. France vs. Australia (2018) – The First-Ever VAR Penalty

The 2018 World Cup in Russia marked the debut of VAR on the global stage, and it didn’t take long for controversy to erupt.

🎥 The Incident

In France’s opening match against Australia, Antoine Griezmann was awarded a penalty after going down in the box. Initially, the referee waved play on but was later alerted by the VAR team to review the incident.

⚖️ The Debate

The penalty was eventually awarded, sparking debate worldwide. While some agreed with the decision, others believed it was a soft call. This moment set the tone for a tournament full of VAR-related controversies.

2. Portugal vs. Iran (2018) – Handball Confusion

This group stage match became a hot topic for football fans due to several VAR decisions that dramatically influenced the outcome.

🖐️ The Incident

A late penalty was given to Iran for a handball by Cedric Soares. The ball glanced off his arm while he was jumping, and after VAR review, the referee deemed it intentional.

⚖️ The Debate

Many felt the handball was completely accidental and harsh, considering the proximity and natural positioning of Cedric’s arm. Portugal nearly lost their top spot in the group because of this call.

3. Argentina vs. Nigeria (2018) – No Penalty Given

Nigeria was on the verge of a historic qualification for the knockout stage—until VAR was called into question.

❌ The Incident

Marcos Rojo headed the ball onto his own arm inside the box. Nigeria appealed for a penalty, and while the referee reviewed the incident on VAR, he chose not to award a spot-kick.

⚖️ The Debate

Many analysts and fans believed it was a clear handball under the current interpretation of the rules. Nigeria was eliminated, and Argentina advanced—making this one of the most fiercely contested VAR calls.

4. Japan vs. Spain (2022) – Did the Ball Go Out?

In one of the most dramatic moments of the 2022 World Cup, Japan stunned Spain—but it came with controversy.

🟰 The Incident

Kaoru Mitoma’s cross that led to Japan’s winning goal appeared to have crossed the byline before the ball was played. However, VAR reviewed the play and concluded that the curvature of the ball had not entirely gone out of bounds.

⚖️ The Debate

Images of the ball on the line went viral. Many fans couldn’t believe the goal stood. But according to VAR, the entire circumference of the ball must cross the line—which, apparently, it hadn’t.

5. Croatia vs. Brazil (2022) – Penalty Shootout Drama

While not a direct result of VAR, the lead-up to Brazil’s elimination in the quarterfinals featured moments where VAR could have intervened more effectively.

🧤 The Incident

There were shouts for fouls and potential penalties as both teams battled in extra time, but VAR stayed silent on questionable tackles and handball shouts.

⚖️ The Debate

Critics felt that VAR was inconsistent—choosing not to review incidents that could have changed the outcome. Brazil’s exit added emotional weight to the frustration.

6. England vs. Colombia (2018) – Penalty Tensions

In a match already packed with tension, England’s penalty decision raised eyebrows.

🧨 The Incident

Harry Kane was wrestled to the ground in the box, and after VAR consultation, a penalty was awarded. Kane converted, but the Colombians and many fans were livid.

⚖️ The Debate

The decision seemed correct by the letter of the law, but critics pointed out that similar infractions had been ignored in other matches. The lack of consistency in VAR decisions became a hot topic.

7. Senegal vs. Poland (2018) – Offside Confusion

Though not involving a penalty or red card, Senegal’s second goal against Poland was scrutinized for offside.

📏 The Incident

Mbaye Niang re-entered the pitch from the sideline and capitalized on a defensive error to score. Many thought he was offside, but the goal stood after VAR review.

⚖️ The Debate

Technically, Niang was not offside because he had re-entered legally. But the situation was confusing, and VAR’s handling of the rulebook sparked debate.

How VAR Changed the Game—For Better or Worse?

There’s no denying VAR has made some refereeing more accurate. But at the same time, it has created:

• Inconsistency in decision-making

• Delays in game flow

• Confusion over rules and interpretations

• Moments of high drama amplified by technology

Fans Are Divided

Some fans appreciate the effort to get big calls right. Others believe VAR has taken emotion and spontaneity out of football.

At the World Cup level—where careers and legacies are made—every decision counts. The margin between glory and heartbreak is razor-thin, and VAR is often at the center of it all.

Conclusion

From dramatic penalties to disallowed goals, VAR has become one of the most influential—and controversial—elements in modern World Cup football. As technology continues to evolve, so will debates about what’s fair, what’s accurate, and what should remain part of football’s human charm.

Love it or hate it, VAR is here to stay—and its role in shaping football history can’t be denied.

Call to Action

Which VAR decision at the World Cup do you think was the most controversial? Join the debate and keep fueling your passion for Aw8 by staying informed, staying vocal, and supporting the beautiful game through every twist and turn.

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