FIFA defends disallowed German goal in World Cup match against Paraguay

FIFA's chief of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, has defended the controversial decision to disallow a German goal during their World Cup Round of 16 match against Paraguay. The disallowed goal, scored by Jonathan Tah in extra time, has sparked widespread criticism in Germany, with many deeming the decision "unacceptable."

The incident occurred in the 102nd minute when Tah headed the ball into the net, which would have given Germany a 2-1 lead. However, after a review by video assistant referee Tatiana Guzman, the on-field referee, Jalal Jayed, consulted the monitor and ruled that Waldemar Anton had committed a foul by blocking the opposing goalkeeper, Orlando Gill.

Collina explained that while players are allowed to take positions, referees are instructed to intervene when an attacker impedes a defender's movement, particularly if the tactic aims to prevent the goalkeeper from defending the goal. He noted that referees have been advised to pay special attention to such situations, which can arise from specific team tactics.

Despite Collina's explanation, the decision remains contentious. German national coach Julian Nagelsmann called it a "full scandal," while former referee Thorsten Kinhöfer described it as "absolutely incomprehensible." Germany was ultimately eliminated from the tournament after losing the penalty shootout 4-3.