Why VAR Permitted the Controversial 2nd Goal by Japan Against Spain

Despite defeating Spain 2-1, Japan was not without controversy. Their second goal has caused a social media uproar, with many claiming that the VAR made a mistake in permitting the goal.

Japan defeated both Germany and Spain in the "Group of Death" in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, winning the group and moving on to the Round of 16. Due to a greater goal differential, Spain advanced as the runners-up whereas 2014 winner Germany was eliminated. But there was some dispute around Japan's 2-1 victory over Spain. Their second goal has caused a stir on social media, with many arguing that the VAR erred in allowing it because it eliminated the Germans.

The Asian team took the lead in the 51st minute with a goal from Japan's Ao Tanaka. The goal was not immediately awarded because the referees had to determine if the ball crossed the touchline. Japan now leads 2-1 after the referees' thorough study and decision in their favour.

A VAR check was performed, and the results indicated that not all of the ball may have passed the touchline. However, other photographs from the game have appeared on social media, implying that the entire ball had crossed the touchline, leading to a debate.

Why did the VAR rule in favour of Japan?

It is important to realise that even though the ball may have been positioned outside of the touchline, its tangent was still inside the permitted range. As a result, the touchline was in line with a portion of the ball, which led the referee to declare it a goal.

The ball was not out of play at that point, according to FIFA, since the "curvature of the ball" was still present.

The ball is out when it "has entirely crossed beyond the goal line or touchline on the ground or in the air," according to the IFAB, which establishes the rules of the game.

The outcome of the goal was that Germany was eliminated from the competition. Despite defeating Costa Rica 4-2 in a wild game, Germany was unable to advance to the Round of 16. While winning Group E, Japan secured their place in the knockout rounds.