Ronald Koeman Criticises VAR Following Controversial Euro 2024 Decision

Koeman Speaks Out Against VAR After Dutch Defeat

In the aftermath of a thrilling Euro 2024 semi-final, Ronald Koeman, the manager of the Netherlands, expressed his dissatisfaction with the implementation of the video assistant referee (VAR) system. The controversy arose when England were awarded a contentious penalty, which Koeman described as a factor “breaking football.”

The game, which saw England secure a spot in the final against Spain, was marked by a pivotal moment where England captain Harry Kane was deemed to have been fouled by Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries. Initially, the incident did not result in a penalty, but the referee changed his decision after consulting the VAR and subsequently visiting the monitor. Kane converted the penalty, levelling the score, which set the stage for a dramatic late winner by substitute Ollie Watkins.

Koeman and Pundits Decry Penalty Decision

Koeman firmly stated his perspective on the incident: “In my opinion, it should not have been a penalty. He kicked the ball, and the boots touched. I think that we cannot play properly, and this is due to VAR. It really breaks football.” His assertion highlights a growing concern among football professionals about the impact of VAR on the flow and spirit of the game.

The sentiment was echoed by former England defender and pundit Gary Neville, who criticized the decision on ITV, calling it “absolutely disgraceful.” Similarly, ex-England striker Alan Shearer, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, argued that while there was contact, the decision to award a penalty was questionable at best.

Virgil van Dijk Reflects on the Game’s Turning Point

Virgil van Dijk, the captain of the Dutch team and a stalwart for Liverpool, also weighed in, indicating that the penalty was a turning point that shifted momentum in England’s favour. “I think so many decisions didn’t go our way, but I don’t want to speak about the referee,” van Dijk noted, reflecting a sense of frustration but also restraint in his commentary.

Koeman Backs England for the Final

Despite the disappointment, Koeman showed sportsmanship by offering his support to Gareth Southgate’s England team for the upcoming final against Spain. “England showed great football in the first half after [being] 1-0 down,” he remarked, adding, “It is football. Maybe if you watch all of the matches of the Spanish team, maybe they are playing more offensive, great wingers and ball possession, and you need to stop that.”

Spain, having displayed formidable form throughout the tournament, will be a tough opponent, but Koeman’s endorsement of England’s capabilities underscores a belief in their potential to triumph. “But England are in the final and have the possibility to win it. Spain are playing on a high level but England can stop them. Why not?” Koeman concluded with a hopeful note on England’s chances.

In this heated debate surrounding VAR’s role in football, the discussions from this match will likely fuel ongoing debates about the place of technology and its implementation in sports.