WATCH: FIFA finally gives official explanation for why Japan goal was allowed to stand against Spain amid VAR controversy

Ao Tanaka Japan Spain FIFA
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FIFA has finally released official reasoning as to why Japan's second goal against Spain was given by VAR amid huge controversy around the decision.
  • Tanaka put Japan 2-1 ahead against Spain
  • VAR ruled the ball had not crossed the line
  • FIFA has finally explained why goal was given

WHAT HAPPENED? It's the most talked about decision of the World Cup so far... and finally we have a proper explanation from FIFA! After Kaoru Mitoma smuggled the ball back across the face of Spain's goal, Tanaka slotted home to score Japan's second goal in three minutes to put them ahead in the match. The goal was eventually given after a long VAR check but there were many who believed that it was clear the ball had gone out of play.

WHY WAS IT GIVEN? The simple fact is that not all of the ball had crossed the line before Mitoma got to it. Indeed, FIFA has even released a video to show that certain camera angles can be deceptive!

STORY IN TWO PHOTOS:

Ao Tanaka Japan Spain

Ao Tanaka Japan Spain

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