CORNERFLICK
Wayne Rooney has called for VAR to be scrapped after Colombia’s stoppage-time winner against Portugal was disallowed for offside in a goalless draw at the 2026 World Cup.
The former England forward, speaking on BBC analysis duty, said the Colombia player looked onside in the television replay and argued the technology was taking the enjoyment out of the game.
"It seems the Colombian player was in the right position. That is why I say it; the VAR technology should be removed. This technology is ruining the enjoyment of the game for me," Rooney said.
He added that he did not accept the explanation he was given and insisted the call could not have been offside.
The decision did not alter the group standings. Colombia finished top, with Portugal second, sending them into a tougher route in the knockout stage. Portugal will face Croatia in the last 16 and, if they progress, are likely to meet Spain. Colombia will play Ghana.