Scotland fans seethed with anger when a contentious VAR decision jeopardized their chances of securing a spot in Euro 2024.
All Scotland needed on the night of October 15 was for Norway to not defeat Spain, which would have guaranteed their qualification for the tournament in Germany next summer. It appeared to be going their way when Alvaro Morata slotted in a goal in the 20th minute.
However, the German referee, Tobias Steiler, disallowed the goal after an extensive VAR review led him to consult the monitor for an offside ruling. This left the Scotland team in a state of perplexity.
Former international and Viaplay co-commentator Michael Stewart expressed his confusion, stating, “I’m not really sure what they could be looking at because if it’s offside it’s definitive, the referee shouldn’t be looking at this.”
“What is it that’s interfering here? What has happened there that’s affected the game of play? Nothing. That’s nonsense, that’s nonsense again. I’m at a loss as to what has actually happened here.”
Fans were equally displeased, with one suggesting, “Wow. UEFA really IS trying to stop Scotland qualifying…” Another echoed the sentiment, saying, “Anti-Scotland agenda confirmed!!”
A third fan vented, “VAR is a joke,” while a fourth added, “It’s like VAR doesn’t want @ScotlandNT to get this over the line…” A fifth inquired, “I’m baffled again. Can anyone explain?”
Morata was judged to be offside because Norway’s center-back, Stefan Stranberg, was deemed to have unintentionally intercepted the ball. If he had not touched the ball, the goal would have been allowed.
Fortunately for the Scots, this setback did not prevent them from securing qualification, as Gavi scored in the second half to seal a 1-0 victory for Spain, which also guaranteed their advancement to the finals from Group A.
Spain thought they had the lead…but VAR had other ideas ❌
“That’s nonsense. That’s nonsense again.” 🎙#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/cdzjCdiAYp
— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) October 15, 2023
Scotland performance and stats
It will be Scotland ended the league in the position with points.
It has a even goal difference after scoring goals and conceding .
Norway performance and stats
Norway is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It lost its previous match 0-1 against Spain.
Spain performance and stats
Spain
Spain is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It won its previous match 0-1 against Norway.
