In a dramatic moment during the Spain vs Austria FIFA World Cup 2026 clash, Marc Cucurella thought he had given La Roja the lead. The Chelsea defender thumped home a loose ball from close range after a corner, but the goal was quickly ruled out by VAR for a foul on Austria’s goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. Many fans and pundits have called the decision “very soft.”
What Happened in the Build-Up?
Spain won a corner and delivered a high ball into the six-yard box. As the ball dropped, there was a challenge involving Austrian keeper Schlager. The referee blew the whistle for a foul under the high ball before Cucurella could celebrate his strike. The Spanish left-back reacted quickly to slot the ball into the net, but the flag (or whistle) had already gone.
Key details:
- Incident: Corner kick → High ball into crowded six-yard area → Challenge on goalkeeper → Cucurella finishes the loose ball.
- Decision: Goal disallowed for foul on Schlager.
- Timing: Early in the match (Spain’s first goal attempt ruled out).
Why Did VAR and the Referee Disallow the Goal?
Under FIFA’s Laws of the Game, goalkeepers are protected when contesting high balls, especially in aerial duels inside the penalty area. Referees often call fouls if an attacker impedes the keeper’s movement, pushes, or makes contact that prevents a clean catch or punch.
Impact on the Spain vs Austria Match
This disallowed goal came as Spain dominated possession early on but struggled to break down a resilient Austrian defence. Austria, organised under their setup, kept things tight despite Spain’s attacking talent like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Dani Olmo.
Disallowing the goal kept the scoreline goalless at that stage and gave Austria a psychological boost. Such tight VAR calls often swing momentum in knockout or group-stage games at the World Cup.
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