Local Experts Back VAR After Argentina's 3-2 Win Sparks World Cup Dispute

3 articles · Updated · The Daily Star · Jul 8

Bangladesh coaches, former referees and ex-players defended VAR after Argentina’s 3-2 Round-of-16 comeback over Egypt triggered fresh controversy over two key calls.
The sharpest disputes centered on Egypt’s disallowed second goal for a foul in the buildup and a rejected penalty appeal after Mohamed Salah fell in Argentina’s box.
Shafiqul Islam Manik said both decisions were correct, arguing the foul was clear on replay and Salah was not in control of the ball when he went down.
Former FIFA referee Toyeb Hasan said VAR helps officials fix mistakes missed in real time and has reduced major disputes over red cards, handballs and penalties, even if consistency still varies.
Alfaz Ahmed said criticism usually rises when decisions hurt a favored team, underscoring how VAR remains contentious even as experts see it as a permanent part of modern football.