Fifa has confirmed it: the disallowed Germany goal against Paraguay followed the new refereeing guidance issued before the 2026 World Cup. Jonathan Tah thought he’d scored the winner in extra time. After a VAR review, referee Jalal Jayed chalked off the goal for a foul by Waldemar Anton on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. The match finished 1-1, and Paraguay knocked Germany out on penalties, 4-3. For England, still chasing the trophy, this case is a warning shot.
What happened with Germany’s disallowed goal?
In extra time of the last-32 match against Paraguay, Jonathan Tah bundled the ball home in what looked like the winner. The referee initially allowed it, before being called to the pitchside monitor by VAR. Replays showed Waldemar Anton making contact with goalkeeper Orlando Gill just before the strike, stopping him from reacting to the ball. Jalal Jayed overturned the goal. The score stayed at 1-1, and Paraguay went through on penalties, winning 4-3.
Why did Fifa back the referee’s call?
Fifa confirmed that this exact type of foul on a goalkeeper had been flagged to coaches and players before the tournament even started. Any contact that stops a keeper reacting inside his own box, however slight it looks, can now wipe out a goal at this World Cup. According to the governing body, referee Jalal Jayed applied the standard exactly as it was laid out in the pre-tournament briefings — no grey area, despite German frustration.
What’s the warning for England in the knockout rounds?
This ruling sets the tone for every team left in the competition, England included. A challenge on a goalkeeper that looks harmless in real time can wipe a decisive goal off the board, even deep into extra time of a knockout tie. Tuchel’s staff would do well to run this exact clip past the squad before the next round. A goal fought for and won can turn into an early flight home if VAR spots even minimal interference on the opposition keeper.
FAQ
Why was Germany’s goal against Paraguay disallowed?
The referee ruled out Jonathan Tah’s goal after a VAR review showed Waldemar Anton fouled Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill just before the shot.
Who won the Germany vs Paraguay match?
The game finished 1-1 after extra time. Paraguay eliminated Germany on penalties, winning the shootout 4-3.
Did Fifa confirm the referee’s decision was correct?
Yes, Fifa said this type of foul on a goalkeeper had already been communicated to coaches and players before the World Cup began.
Could this VAR rule affect England?
Yes, the standard applies to every team still in the tournament, including England, who now need to be extra careful with contact near the opposition goalkeeper.
Who was the referee for Germany vs Paraguay?
The match was officiated by Jalal Jayed, who disallowed Germany’s goal after the VAR review.
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