In a dramatic turn of events, FIFA has officially overturned the decision to disallow Mikel Merino’s goal following a fresh review of the incident. The announcement was made this morning after FIFA’s VAR review panel admitted to an error in the original decision during the match.
The incident, which sparked heavy controversy, saw Merino’s header ruled out for an alleged offside in the build-up. The decision, initially upheld after a VAR check, was heavily criticized by pundits, players, and fans alike, with replays appearing to suggest that the goal should have stood.
Speaking at a press conference this morning, a FIFA spokesperson confirmed:
“After a comprehensive review of the VAR procedure and available footage, the FIFA VAR Review Panel has identified a misjudgment in the offside assessment. As a result, Mikel Merino’s goal is now officially awarded and recorded in the match result.”
The spokesperson also acknowledged the growing concerns around the consistency of VAR decisions at the highest level, stating:
“We recognize the impact decisions like these have on players, teams, and the integrity of the game. Measures will be taken to reinforce VAR review protocols to prevent similar situations moving forward.”
Mikel Merino himself reacted to the news on social media, posting:
“Justice. It took a while but glad the right call has been made.”
The goal’s reinstatement is expected to have a direct effect on the competition’s standings and statistical records, though FIFA clarified that the match outcome remains unchanged as per tournament regulations.
The decision has reignited the debate over the reliability of VAR technology and its operators, with calls from several quarters for improved transparency and perhaps live audio release of VAR discussions during matches.
This development marks one of the rare occasions FIFA has publicly admitted a VAR error and reversed a goal decision post-match — a move some see as a positive step towards greater accountability in officiating.
