FIFA faces backlash after VAR controversy in Switzerland vs Qatar match

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 9:52 PM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

FIFA faces backlash after VAR controversy in Switzerland vs Qatar match
Summary

During the World Cup 2026 match between Switzerland and Qatar, Gary Neville criticized FIFA for not releasing the VAR replays pertaining to a semi-automated offside decision. Following a foul on Remo Freuler by Qatar's Mahmud Abunada that resulted in a penalty for Switzerland, the offside claim related to the build-up was questioned. Despite Switzerland converting the penalty, Qatar equalized late in the match, raising further discussions about officiating transparency. Neville expressed frustration on ITV, labeling FIFA a 'dictatorship' for withholding crucial evidence from fans.

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By the Numbers
  • Switzerland awarded a penalty after a foul by Qatar's goalkeeper.
  • Gary Neville criticized FIFA for failing to show VAR replays.
  • Switzerland converted the penalty but Qatar equalized in injury time.
  • Neville called FIFA's actions a lack of transparency.
  • This marks Qatar's first-ever point in World Cup history.
Latest Updates
  • 9:52 PMYahoo Sports‘Fifa is a dictatorship’ fumes Gary Neville after World Cup offside controversy
What they're saying
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Fifa’s refusal to show the detail of a tight semi-automated offside decision during Qatar vs Switzerland provoked the ire of ITV pundit Neville

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