Nagelsmann scolds VAR feet decisions after Germany defeat

Nagelsmann scolds VAR feet decisions after Germany defeat

After the 0-2 loss to France on June 9, 2025, Julian Nagelsmann, the coach of the German national team, expressed vehemently about the decisions of referee Ivan Kruzliak. His displeasure was particularly aimed at two controversial situations that significantly influenced the course of the game. According to Krone Karim Adeyemi fell in the penalty area, for which Kruzliak initially decided on penalty. After a Var check, however, he changed his mind and showed Adeyemi a yellow card because of a supposed swallow. Nagelsmann described this decision as unfair and expressed that it was neither a penalty nor a swallow.

Another controversial topic was the unable to equalize by Deniz Undav in the 43rd minute. This was not recognized after a bump from Niclas Füllkrug, who was also on the pitch. Kruzliak initially left the campaign unpunished, but after the Var-Check decided to make his original decision against Undav’s goal. Nagelsmann was outraged by this "violation of the rules" and spoke of a refusal to the referee.

influence of the var

The controversial decisions accelerate the debates about the role and effectiveness of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in modern football. Var was introduced to improve the accuracy of referee decisions. He analyzes controversial game situations and enables the main referee to use the support of certified specialists if unclear. The results of the VAR analysis are informed by the referee about a headphones to make the final decision, such as em2021fussball explained.

The introduction of the VAR has brought many advantages. Among other things, referee errors were minimized and justice in the game increased. Players and spectators are increasingly satisfied with the review of existing decisions. Nevertheless, there are also critics who note that the technology is not always flawless and occasionally creates discussions instead of clarity. Nagelsmann's statements underline the challenges associated with the use of modern technologies in sports.

Germany ended the final four tournament with two defeats after this defeat and shows that it was not only due to playful performance, but also due to the disputed decisions of the referees, which significantly influenced the course of the games. This topic will probably continue to take a central place in the discussion about football rules and technologies such as the Var in the future.