Croatia equaliser disallowed: A dramatic stoppage-time goal by Josko Gvardiol was ruled out after VAR review, ending Croatia’s 2026 World Cup hopes in a controversial 2-1 loss to Portugal. The decision, which sparked outrage, centered on whether Igor Matanovic touched the ball in the buildup.
The match in Toronto saw Croatia trailing 2-1 deep into stoppage time. Gvardiol scored what seemed to be the equaliser in the 103rd minute, sparking wild celebrations. However, referee Espen Eskas halted play after VAR detected a potential offside.
The key issue was whether Matanovic made contact with the ball before it reached Mario Pasalic, who was offside. Replays were inconclusive, but ball sensor technology detected a faint touch, confirming Matanovic flicked the ball. This meant Pasalic’s offside position interfered with play, making the goal invalid.
Croatia midfielder Petar Sucic voiced frustration, saying, “It’s hard to accept because, from our perspective, he didn’t touch it.” The decision divided fans, with many criticising the reliance on technology for such marginal calls.
The Croatia equaliser disallowed will be remembered as a pivotal moment in World Cup history. While technology ensured accuracy, it also highlighted the ongoing debate between precision and the sport’s natural flow. For Croatia, it was a heartbreaking exit, and for football, a reminder of technology’s growing influence.