Home » EURO 2024: Ronald Koeman says VAR “destroying football”

EURO 2024: Ronald Koeman says VAR “destroying football”

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said VAR was “destroying football” after England was handed a first-half penalty in the EURO 2024 semifinals.

Check out M88 Mansion’s best offers here.

Check out for more sports updates here.

Koeman says VAR was “destroying football”

Xavi Simons gave the Netherlands an early lead with his goal in the seventh minute.

However, VAR ruled that defender Denzel Dumfries tackled Harry Kane, and referee Felix Zwayer awarded a spot kick to the England captain.

Kane converted his penalty in the 18th minute to level the game.

Ollie Watkins dashed Oranje’s final hopes with a late goal in the 90th minute, as England will face Spain in Berlin on Sunday.

“This is not a penalty,” Koeman said. “His only intention was to block a shot. Harry Kane then shoots and their feet collide.”

“Football is getting destroyed by these type of decisions by VAR. This penalty would not have been given in England.”

“What should you do as a defender? I thought the referee whistled for a lot of silly things, but that’s not why we lose.”

The future is bright for Netherlands

Despite losing in the semis, Koeman remains optimisitic with Netherland’s future.

Koeman’s side reached the semifinals after beating Romania and Turkey in the knockout stages.

“There is a lot of future in this team,” he said.

“In general, I am very proud. I like how they gave something in every game. We started well, but England got on top in midfield and we had to change things. I thought we then were the better team, but they scored a killer goal in the 91st minute and there is no way to respond to that.”