The Goal Spain Had Taken Away
Nico Williams thought he had given Spain the lead in extra time against Argentina — then the goal was disallowed for a Mikel Merino foul on Otamendi in the build-up. VAR reviewed the incident and left referee Slavko Vinčić's decision unchanged. Spain later won the World Cup through Ferran Torres, but the Nico Williams disallowed goal became the final's defining refereeing controversy. A World Cup final disallowed goal is the rarest exhibit this tribunal hears, and the Spain–Argentina disallowed goal now anchors the wider Spain–Argentina VAR controversy. Jurors: review the evidence and cast your ruling — was erasing the goal Fair, Soft VARgentina or Full VARgentina?
The facts, as presented
- Decision
- Goal disallowed for an attacking foul in the build-up
- Referee's call
- Vinčić penalised Merino for stepping on Otamendi's foot and ruled out Nico Williams' goal
- VAR involvement
- VAR reviewed the attacking-phase foul and did not recommend an overturn
- Outcome
- Spain's opening goal was disallowed and the final remained 0–0 in extra time
You are the juror. Cast your ruling.
The evidence
View the evidence ↗Clip hosted by its original publisher.
Results reflect fan opinion, not verified wrongdoing.