Spain fans erupted after Nico Williams’ last World Cup goal was ruled out by VAR

Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina was thrown into controversy after Nico Williams had what appeared to be the opening goal ruled out by VAR, prompting an immediate backlash from fans on social media.

The Athletic Club winger thought he had given Spain a crucial lead after lashing the ball into the back of the net, sending his team-mates and supporters into wild celebrations. But the joy lasted only a few moments before the celebrations were cut short.

VAR intervened and the referee disallowed the goal, ruling that Mikel Merino had fouled Nicolas Otamendi in the set-piece. The decision immediately became one of the biggest talking points of the World Cup final.

Spain vs Argentina, World Cup Final: Highlighting

SOCIAL MEDIA IS EXPLODING

The controversial call sparked a backlash online, with fans questioning both the decision and the targeting process.

Many supporters argued that the referee should have gone to the pitch side monitor to review the incident himself rather than relying solely on the VAR’s recommendation. Others insisted there was nothing in the challenge to justify overturning such an important goal in a World Cup final.

Several fans described the decision as “robbery”, while others claimed Argentina had been seriously let down after surviving what they saw as a perfectly legitimate goal. Many also questioned why the check was completed so quickly, insisting that the contact did not warrant a foul.

Within minutes, clips of the incident had spread across social media as debate raged over whether Spain had been unfairly denied one of the greatest goals in their footballing history. (Image: Screengrabs from X)

WHAT HAPPENED?

Footage showed that when Mikel Merino moved in behind Nicolas Otamendi inside the penalty area, the Spanish midfielder inadvertently stepped on the Argentina defender’s foot moments before Nico Williams finished.

The officials ruled that the contact constituted an offensive-phase foul that directly led to the goal. According to the rules of the game, VAR is allowed to intervene if the attacking team commits an error in goal line-up.

The umpire accepted the recommendation and dismissed Williams’ strike without conducting an on-field review.

Although the decision had a basis in the VAR protocol, it did not calm the anger.

Spanish supporters continued to claim that the contact was accidental and too inconsequential to overturn a goal in football’s biggest game, ensuring the foul remained one of the defining moments and most talked about incidents of the World Cup final.

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Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

20 Jul 2026 03:29 IST