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Soccer

Former England international says VAR decision against Belgium was ‘scandalous’

Philip Marsh
Former England international says VAR decision against Belgium was ‘scandalous’Getty
Belgium got off to a bad start at Euro 2024.

Belgium’s quest for European glory got off to the worst possible start on Sunday, as they were beaten 1-0 by Slovakia.

After trailing at half-time, Belgium twice thought they had equalised - both times through Romelu Lukaku - but on each occasion were subsequently denied by VAR.

The first, for offside, has not drawn any criticism, but the second disallowed goal has sparked strong debate.

That goal was ruled out due to a handball by Lois Openda in the build-up, though the contact was minimal and the substitute’s arm seemed in a natural position.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5Live , former Chelsea and England striker Chris Sutton described referee Halil Umut Meler’s decision to disallow the goal as “scandalous”.

"It is scandalous,” said Sutton. “It is ridiculous, it really is.

"Openda doesn't intentionally push the ball into his path, that is harsh. 

“In the Premier League, that goal would stand."

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