BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — The most astonishing and controversial moment of the World Cup left England’s players and fans incensed after a perfectly legal goal was disallowed in its round-of-16 clash with Germany. Frank Lampard’s chip in the 38th minute struck against the crossbar of the Germany goal and bounced down more than a foot over the line. However, Uruguayan referee Jorge Larrionda and his assistants incorrectly ruled that the goal should not count, as the England side held their heads in disbelief.
The incident spawned unavoidable comparisons with one of the most contentious moments in World Cup history. During the 1966 World Cup final between England and West Germany, England’s Geoff Hurst was awarded a goal when the ball struck the bar and landed on the line.
Germans have never forgotten that decision in the intervening 44 years, but revenge finally arrived at Free State Stadium.
With England trailing 2-1, Lampard’s strike should have completed a remarkable first-half comeback after Germany had taken a two-goal lead in the early stages.
England head coach Fabio Capello already was celebrating before being told by his support staff about the officials’ incredible short-sightedness.
The no-goal call will only increase pressure on governing body FIFA to introduce video replays, something it has so far steadfastly resisted.
Source: Yahoo! Sports
