The video assistant referee (VAR) generates debate every week, whether in the Premier League, Champions League, or FA Cup. This summer, with a 104-game FIFA Men’s World Cup to cover, we examine how decisions are made and whether they are accurate.
Throughout the tournament, we’ll analyze significant incidents to clarify the VAR protocols and the laws governing the game.
Andy Davies (@andydaviesref) is a former Select Group referee with over 12 seasons of experience, officiating in both the Premier League and Championship. With extensive background in the elite level and familiarity with VAR processes in the Premier League, he provides valuable insights into the protocols and rationale applied on World Cup matchdays.
Referee: Adham Mohammad Tumah Makhadmeh
VAR: Khamis Al Marri
Time: 43 minutes
Incident: Possible penalty for England
What happened: England’s striker Harry Kane was through on goal, rounded the goalkeeper, and appeared to trip over Congo DR’s goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi as he challenged. The referee dismissed the penalty appeals.
VAR decision: The VAR reviewed the play and upheld the referee’s on-field decision of no penalty.
Here’s another look at the incident in the box involving Harry Kane where no penalty was called pic.twitter.com/FrXIBdg9tz
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 1, 2026
VAR review: The on-field ruling serves as the baseline for any VAR review. A recommendation for a review by the VAR occurs only if clear video evidence indicates an obvious mistake was made.
In this case, the VAR concluded that any contact by the goalkeeper was not the primary reason for Kane falling, leading to inaction on their part.
Verdict: I strongly believe this should have resulted in a penalty, and England has every reason to feel aggrieved.
When attackers skillfully maneuver the ball past a goalkeeper while accelerating, the goalkeeper is tasked with either securing the ball or avoiding contact with the attacking player. Mpasi failed on both counts, colliding with Kane without making contact with the ball.
Nonetheless, the VAR’s lack of intervention was not shocking. The VAR inexplicably analyzed the situation in slow motion, which likely fueled doubts about whether Kane was attempting to earn a penalty rather than whether the goalkeeper had fouled him.
Such scenarios should be evaluated at full speed, and the failure to do so likely cost England a chance at a penalty.