England’s players were left furious after Norway took the lead in their World Cup quarter-final, believing Harry Kane had been fouled in the build-up.
However, a former FIFA referee has dismissed those claims, insisting the goal was correctly allowed to stand.
England Protest After Norway Strike
The Three Lions had controlled much of the early stages before Norway struck following the first hydration break at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
Andreas Schjelderup found the breakthrough with a cross-shot that clipped the post before finding the back of the net, giving Norway a surprise lead.
As the goal was scored, England captain Harry Kane immediately appealed to referee Clément Turpin, arguing he had been fouled moments earlier during the build-up.
Several England players joined the protests, hoping VAR would intervene.
Former FIFA Referee Explains Why Goal Stood
Speaking during ITV’s coverage, former FIFA referee and rules analyst Christina Unkel reviewed the incident and explained why the officials made the correct decision.
After analysing the replay, Unkel said there was no foul on Kane before Norway launched their attack.
She explained:
“No, it wasn’t a foul. We take a look at it and rock it back and forth—no contact on the back of Kane’s foot. Clear possession with no foul leading up to it.”
Her assessment backed both referee Clément Turpin and the VAR team, who allowed play to continue.
Why VAR Didn’t Intervene
Because the officials judged there had been no illegal contact on Kane, there was no reason for VAR to recommend an on-field review.
Under FIFA’s VAR protocol, only a clear and obvious error would have resulted in the referee being sent to the pitch-side monitor.
Instead, Norway’s goal stood.
England Left Chasing the Game
The decision left England frustrated after a bright opening spell.
Thomas Tuchel’s side had enjoyed most of the possession before Norway capitalised on one of their first meaningful attacks.
Schjelderup’s finish gave the Scandinavians a crucial advantage in the World Cup quarter-final.
Debate Continues
Although England supporters questioned whether Kane had been unfairly dispossessed, Unkel’s analysis suggests the challenge was legal.
Her verdict is likely to settle much of the debate surrounding one of the game’s biggest talking points.
The Bottom Line
England believed Harry Kane had been fouled before Norway’s opening goal, but former FIFA referee Christina Unkel disagreed.
After reviewing the footage, she concluded there was no contact on Kane and said Norway won possession fairly, meaning referee Clément Turpin and VAR were right to allow Andreas Schjelderup’s goal to stand.
