Koeman accuses VAR of ‘breaking football’ after Dutch loss
Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman criticised the use of video assistant referees (VAR) for “breaking football” after England were awarded a contentious penalty in Tuesday’s Euro 2024 semi-final.
The Dutch had taken an early lead through Xavi Simons’ powerful strike but Gareth Southgate’s side were handed a lifeline when Harry Kane was caught on the follow-through by Denzel Dumfries after the England captain had already shot over the bar.
No penalty was given originally but referee Felix Zwayer then pointed to the spot after he was advised to go to the monitor by VAR.
Kane levelled with the spot-kick and substitute Ollie Watkins struck a 90th-minute winner to send England to Sunday’s final, where they will play Spain.
“In my opinion it should not have been a penalty,” said Koeman.
“He kicked the ball and the boots touched. I think that we cannot play properly football and this is due to VAR. It really breaks football.”
Former England defender and ITV pundit Gary Neville felt the Netherlands had every right to feel aggrieved.
“As a defender, I think it’s an absolutely disgraceful decision,” he said.
“There’s no way that was a penalty. He just goes in naturally to block the shot. It’s not a penalty for me.”
