Portugal advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Croatia on Friday, but the match was marked by a record four disallowed goals after VAR interventions. The round-of-16 clash in Doha saw a frantic pace, with both teams having efforts chalked off.
Four goals ruled out in a single game
According to FIFA statistics, this was the first World Cup match in which four goals were disallowed, three for Portugal and one for Croatia. Portugal had two goals ruled out for offside and one for a foul in the buildup, while Croatia had a goal disallowed for offside.
Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said after the match: “It was a chaotic game, but we showed great character. The goals were correctly disallowed, but it’s unusual to see so many.”
Portugal takes early lead
Portugal opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through Bruno Fernandes, who slotted home after a pass from Cristiano Ronaldo. Croatia equalized in the 55th minute via Ivan Perisic, who headed in from a corner. The winning goal came from João Félix in the 78th minute, a low drive from outside the box.
Croatia thought they had equalized again in the 89th minute, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check. Portugal held on to secure the win.
Record-breaking VAR involvement
The four disallowed goals set a new record for the most in a single World Cup match, surpassing the previous high of three. The match also saw a total of six VAR reviews, the most in a knockout game in the tournament’s history.
Martinez added: “The players adapted well to the interruptions. It’s part of modern football, and we have to accept it.”
Portugal will face Morocco in the quarter-finals, while Croatia’s exit ends their campaign.
