Germany’s World Cup campaign ended in dramatic and painful fashion after a controversial VAR decision helped Paraguay pull off one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.
The four-time world champions were eliminated on penalties following a 1-1 draw, but much of the post-match debate centered on Jonathan Tah’s disallowed extra-time header.
The defender appeared to have scored what could have been Germany’s winning goal, only for VAR to rule that Waldemar Anton had fouled Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Speaking on MagentaTV, former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp suggested Germany had been punished for something regularly permitted in club football.
“If the goal is illegal, then Arsenal won’t be English champions,” Klopp told MagentaTV, as reported by The Sun. “They’ve scored 60 percent of their goals that way. We win the game when the ball goes in. So, of course, this is brutal.”
His comments highlighted inconsistencies in VAR decisions, noting that similar set-piece situations should be judged uniformly across competitions.
Arsenal have emerged as one of Europe’s most dangerous set-piece teams, utilizing intricate blocking, movement, and delivery to generate scoring opportunities from corners and free-kicks.
Klopp’s frustration was understandable given that Germany appeared to have found a crucial late route into the next round.
NO GOAL
Jonathan Tah thought he’d given Germany the lead but after a VAR review it’s ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper!
Do you agree with the decision?#FifaWorldCup pic.twitter.com/SHbDV6GcVZ
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 29, 2026
The incident has reignited discussions about the boundaries between tactical advantage and fair play in set-piece situations.
While Paraguay deserve credit for prevailing in the shootout, Germany will feel robbed after a decision that potentially altered the tournament’s trajectory.
For Arsenal, Klopp’s remarks underscore how their set-piece mastery has earned recognition even from opposition managers.
The controversy serves as a reminder of football’s ongoing struggle with consistency in refereeing decisions at the highest level.
