Wayne Rooney and Gary Linekar slammed the referees Anthony Taylor and Stuart Attwell after they overturned Netherlands’ Xavi Simons‘ goal against France at Euro 2024. The match resulted in a 0-0 draw, marking the first goalless draw of the ongoing competition, with France dominating a significant part of the game. However, Netherlands might argue they deserved a win, particularly after Simons struck a well-placed shot past France goalkeeper Mike Maignan from 15 yards in the second half.
While Simons began the goal celebration, one of the assistant referees raised the offside flag, given that the Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries interrupted the play. Subsequently, the VAR team reviewed the decision and ultimately upheld the call. However, England football legends Rooney, Lineker, and Alan Shearer expressed their dissent.
It is worth noting that the goal was disallowed due to an offside decision against Dumfries. However, it was evident that the Dutch right-back did not make contact with the ball during the attacking move. Regardless, the officials reckoned that he had interfered with play and made it harder for Maignan to reach Simons’ shot.
There’s no way that should be disallowed: Wayne Rooney
Wayne Rooney, a member of BBC Sport’s punditry team, said that he believes the goal should’ve been awarded.
“I think it’s a goal. There’s no way that should be disallowed,” said the former England captain.
Meanwhile, Gary Lineker agreed with Rooney’s remark, stating that Maignan was ‘not impeded.” “If he dived, he’d just about reach him,” he said.
Alan Shearer expressed annoyance over the match officials’ decision-making process. Meanwhile, Lineker, Rooney, and ex-Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas noted that Taylor should have been directed to the monitor.
“I question a bit the referee there. The VAR should have called him to check the screen,” said Fabregas.
“If you go to the monitor, it’s his own opinion. Onside, that’s a goal,” Rooney concluded.
In addition, both Netherlands and France were guaranteed a spot in the knockout round after the draw. Notably, both sides have accumulated four points each from their first two matches.
Also read: Euro 2024: France vs Netherlands: Why was Xavi Simons’ goal refused?
