Controversial VAR Decision Mars Scotland’s Euro 2024 Quest in Defeat to Spain

In a pivotal clash between Scotland and Spain with a Euro 2024 qualification at stake, a contentious VAR decision left the Scottish team disheartened. The match ended with a 2-0 victory for Spain, but the talking point of the game was the disallowed goal of Scott McTominay, a moment that could have potentially sealed Scotland’s place in the upcoming Euro tournament.

In the 61st minute of the match, McTominay showcased his brilliance with a spectacular free-kick that successfully found the back of Spain’s net. The goal celebration was short-lived, however, as Dutch referee Serdar Gözübüyük was advised by VAR to review the pitch-side monitor. Initially, the stadium’s big screen indicated that the goal had been canceled due to a foul on Spain’s goalkeeper, Unai Simón, by Scotland’s Jack Hendry. Later, UEFA clarified that the disallowed goal was due to Hendry being in an offside position and interfering with play.

Scotland’s midfielder, John McGinn, expressed his frustration with the decision, stating, “I think everyone watching that game tonight from a Scotland point of view, wherever you were, it just felt like we weren’t getting any 50/50 decision — it made it very difficult against a world-class team.” He went on to question the inconsistency in the referee’s decision, as the reasoning behind the VAR check shifted during the game, creating uncertainty.

Despite the controversial ruling, Spain went on to secure a 2-0 victory. Álvaro Morata opened the scoring with his 34th international goal, and debutant Oihan Sancet added the second after a defensive error late in the game.

Scotland’s coach, Steve Clarke, chose not to dwell on the disallowed goal, focusing instead on the overall performance of his team. He noted that the game turned on a small margin and expressed uncertainty about the reason behind the VAR decision. Clarke believes that his team did not deserve to lose 2-0 and that the second goal was unfortunate, putting an unfair shine on the match.

Despite this loss, Scotland still tops Group A with 15 points from their six games, three points clear of Spain, who have a game in hand. Clarke’s team needs just one point from their final two games to secure their place at Euro 2024 in Germany.

The match in Seville also saw Scotland face another setback when Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson sustained a shoulder injury early in the game. Clarke hopes for a quick recovery, with an eye on Scotland’s upcoming friendly against France.

In an interesting turn of events, the victory served as revenge for Spain, who had been defeated 2-0 by Scotland at Hampden Park in the reverse fixture. After that loss, Manchester City midfielder Rodri had labeled Scotland’s style of play as “a bit rubbish,” comments he later apologized for after Thursday’s game. Rodri clarified that his comments were misinterpreted, expressing respect for Scotland’s style of play and their competitiveness.

Spain now stands on the cusp of qualifying for Euro 2024, with their fate hinging on their upcoming match against Norway. However, they will have to face this challenge without the services of Nico Williams and Alejandro Balde, who have returned to their respective clubs with injuries.