The reason behind referee Anthony Taylor’s decision to ignore Germany’s appeal for a penalty in the extra time of the Euro 2024 quarter-final clash against Spain has been explained.
Germany made a strong appeal for a spot kick which was overlooked by the referee.
This is despite Spanish star, Marc Cucurella clearly stopping a goal-bound effort with his hand.
Taylor’s decision was also backed by the VAR, Stuart Atwell.
Spain went on to beat the host nation 2-1 to progress to the semifinals of the competition.
The decision has generated widespread speculation and debate among football lovers who have seen such situations given as penalties on many occasions.
But ESPN editor, Dale Johnson, has provided a detailed explanation of the UEFA rules after the match.
“UEFA’s pre-tournament briefing on handballs gave a specific example just like Marc Cucurella, saying it should NOT be a handball penalty,” he wrote on X.
“Arm close to the side, pointing predominantly down/vertically, and/or a position behind the line of the body.”
Germany left the competition on Friday along with Portugal who were beaten 5-4 on penalty shootout by France in the second quarter final game of the day.
Euro 2024: Reason referee Anthony Taylor refused to award penalty to Germany