Mezzolara Overview

A monumental VAR controversy overshadowed Portugal’s dramatic 2-1 World Cup knockout victory over Croatia, sparking furious allegations of corruption from Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The former striker, working as a media pundit, fiercely condemned the decision to disallow an injury-time Croatian equaliser, suggesting governing bodies engineered the outcome.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has questioned Cristiano Ronaldo's role in the Portugal national team, claiming the veteran forward is being picked out of nostalgia rather than merit. The former Sweden striker believes Goncalo Ramos has shown Portugal should move on after scoring the winner against Croatia.

Luka Modric criticised VAR after Croatia's World Cup exit to Portugal, insisting his side were unfairly treated following a controversial penalty and a disallowed equaliser. The Croatia captain questioned the consistency of officiating and suggested bigger nations receive more favourable decisions.

FIFA have explained why Croatia's dramatic stoppage-time equaliser against Portugal was ruled out after VAR intervened. Connected Ball Technology detected the slightest touch from Igor Matanovic in the build-up, allowing officials to confirm an offside offence and sending Portugal through while Croatia crashed out.