Croatia’s coach Zlatko Dalic criticizes the use of VAR after his side’s late equaliser is ruled out during their 2-1 World Cup defeat to Portugal. Dalic says the decision “takes the joy out of football,” following what he perceived to be an equalizing goal deep into stoppage time. Croatia’s players believe Josko Gvardiol scored to level the match, but the goal is disallowed after an offside ruling following video review.
Portugal’s coach Roberto Martinez responds that there is no dispute around the decision, indicating that the official ruling stands without contention. The reports agree that the disallowed strike occurs late in the game, shaping the final outcome as Portugal holds onto the lead to secure the victory.
Overall, the match remains defined by the late VAR intervention: Croatia challenges the impact of the technology and the emotional effect it has on the game, while Portugal’s coaching staff presents the ruling as clear and settled.
