Controversy Surrounds England’s Victory Over Netherlands in Euro 2024 Semi-Final
Controversy Surrounds England’s Victory Over Netherlands in Euro 2024 Semi-Final
Controversy Surrounds England’s Victory Over Netherlands in Euro 2024 Semi-Final, In a heated Euro 2024 semi-final match, England emerged victorious over the Netherlands, but not without significant controversy. The use of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) and a contentious penalty decision left Dutch fans and players feeling aggrieved.
Early Lead for the Netherlands
The match began favorably for the Netherlands, with Xavi Simons delivering a powerful strike to give his team an early lead. The Dutch looked strong and poised to maintain their advantage throughout the game.
Controversial Penalty Decision
The turning point came when England captain Harry Kane was caught on the follow-through by Denzel Dumfries after shooting over the bar. Initially, no penalty was given by referee Felix Zwayer. However, after consulting VAR, Zwayer pointed to the spot, awarding England a penalty.
Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands’ manager, was vocal about his disapproval of the decision. “In my opinion it should not have been a penalty,” Koeman said. “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.”
Reactions from Pundits and Players
The decision sparked widespread debate among pundits and players. Former England defender Gary Neville described it as “an absolutely disgraceful decision,” asserting that Dumfries’ actions were natural for a defender and did not warrant a penalty.
Ex-England striker Alan Shearer, speaking on BBC Radio 5 live, acknowledged the contact but felt that the incident did not justify overturning the initial decision. “The follow-through from Harry Kane makes the connection and I didn’t think it was a howler to be turned over,” Shearer commented.
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk also expressed his frustration, noting that the penalty was a significant turning point in the game. “I think the penalty moment is a big moment, England had some confidence out of it,” Van Dijk said. “I think so many decisions didn’t go our way, but I don’t want to speak about the referee.”
England’s Path to the Final
With the penalty, Harry Kane leveled the score, and substitute Ollie Watkins scored a dramatic 90th-minute winner, sending England to the Euro 2024 final where they will face Spain.
Conclusion About Controversy Surrounds England’s Victory Over Netherlands in Euro 2024 Semi-Final
The Euro 2024 semi-final between England and the Netherlands will be remembered not just for its intense play but also for the controversial use of VAR. While England celebrated their path to the final, the Netherlands and their supporters were left questioning the fairness of the game-changing penalty decision.
FAQs About Controversy Surrounds England’s Victory Over Netherlands in Euro 2024 Semi-Final
1. What was the contentious moment in the match?
The contentious moment was the awarding of a penalty to England after a VAR review, which many felt was not justified.
2. What was Ronald Koeman’s opinion on the penalty decision?
Ronald Koeman believed the penalty should not have been awarded, stating that VAR is “breaking football.”
3. How did pundits react to the penalty decision?
Pundits like Gary Neville and Alan Shearer criticized the decision, with Neville calling it “an absolutely disgraceful decision.”
4. What was the impact of the penalty on the game?
The penalty allowed Harry Kane to level the score, boosting England’s confidence and ultimately leading to their victory with a late goal by Ollie Watkins.
5. Who will England play in the Euro 2024 final?
England will play Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
