Ronald Koeman and the Netherlands were left fuming after England benefited from a controversial first-half penalty in their dramatic Euro 2024 semi-final victory. The Dutch manager did not hold back, criticizing VAR for its role in what he believes is “breaking football.”
Controversial Penalty Decision
In the semi-final held in Dortmund, the Netherlands initially took the lead. However, England quickly equalized through a Harry Kane penalty. The penalty’s awarding was highly contentious, as VAR intervened to give the referee, Felix Zwayer, a chance to reconsider his original decision of waving away the appeals.
The incident in question involved Denzel Dumfries blocking a Kane volley, leading to contact between their boots. Few anticipated the referee would change his mind, but after reviewing the monitor, Zwayer awarded the penalty, which Kane successfully converted from 12 yards.
Koeman’s Outrage
Koeman, who had hoped to lead the Dutch to their first tournament final since the World Cup 14 years ago, expressed his frustration following their 2-1 defeat. “In my opinion, it should not have been a penalty. He kicked the ball, and the boots touched. I think that we cannot play proper football because of VAR. It really breaks football,” Koeman stated.
Wider VAR Debate
The penalty decision has reignited the ongoing debate about VAR in football. This was not the only controversial call during the Euros. For instance, Germany received a penalty during their last 16 win over Denmark due to a handball decision that also divided opinions.
Reactions from Players
Virgil van Dijk, who missed out on the semi-final, echoed Koeman’s sentiments. “I think the penalty moment was crucial. England gained confidence from it. Many decisions didn’t go our way, but I don’t want to focus on the referee,” van Dijk commented.
Harry Kane, who was involved in the penalty incident, joked that his “foot was hanging off” after the clash with Dumfries. He acknowledged that such decisions can go either way, reflecting on the nature of the game.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Despite his frustration, Koeman admitted that England has the potential to defeat Spain in the final. “England showed great football in the first half after being 1-0 down. It is football. Maybe if you watch all the matches of the Spanish team, they play more offensively, with great wingers and ball possession, and you need to stop that. But England are in the final and have the possibility to win it. Spain are playing at a high level, but England can stop them. Why not?” Koeman concluded.
Conclusion
VAR’s impact on football remains a hotly debated topic, with the controversial penalty awarded to England in the Euro 2024 semi-final adding fuel to the fire. Ronald Koeman’s criticism highlights the growing concerns about VAR’s role in the sport, as fans and professionals alike continue to grapple with its implications.
