VAR controversy clouds Germany's extra‑time surge against Paraguay

Jonathan Tah's extra‑time header for Germany against Paraguay was ruled out after VAR determined a foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gill by Waldemar Anton, leaving the match tied 1‑1 after 90 minutes in the World Cup last‑32 tie on June 29, 2026. The match remained deadlocked at 1‑1 after the regulation 90 minutes, setting up a tense extra‑time period. The encounter was a World Cup last‑32 tie between Germany and Paraguay. In extra‑time, Jonathan Tah rose highest at the back post and headed the ball towards goal. A VAR referral then ruled the effort out, citing a foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill by Waldemar Anton. Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed consulted the screen and announced to the crowd that a foul had been committed.

Germany and Paraguay locked in tight battle after VAR overturns Tah’s goal

BBC commentator Alan Shearer described the decision as “very, very soft” and said he did not agree with it. He added that the goalkeeper’s fall was too easy and that contact in a six‑yard box is common. Former World Cup final assistant referee Darren Cann echoed the view, calling the contact “hardly anything” and suggesting it was a small block on the goalkeeper. The incident was highlighted in a BBC MOTD tweet on June 29, 2026, captioned “NO GOAL” with the German flag. The VAR screen confirmed Anton had blocked Gill before Tah’s header.

Penalty drama reshapes World Cup path for Paraguay and Germany

The score stayed 1‑1 and Paraguay eventually prevailed in a dramatic penalty shoot‑out, sending the four‑time world champions out of the competition. Paraguay now advance to the last‑16, where they will meet either France or Sweden on Saturday.