Harry Kane was left furious after being denied a penalty during England's World Cup round-of-32 match against DR Congo on Wednesday. The incident occurred in the 43rd minute when Kane was clipped by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi after getting to the ball first. Jordanian referee Adham Makhadmeh initially made a simulation gesture and awarded DR Congo a free kick.
VAR review and referee's decision
VAR reviewed the incident, and replays showed Kane had touched the ball before Mpasi made contact. However, VAR agreed with Makhadmeh's decision that Kane was already stumbling before the contact, meaning no clear and obvious error was made. Former England captain Wayne Rooney backed the decision, telling the BBC: 'I just think he trips himself a little bit then jumps into the goalkeeper a little bit. Yes, there is contact but I just think it's the right decision.'
Mixed opinions from former officials
Former Premier League referee Graham Scott supported the call, stating: 'Harry Kane only has himself to blame, by dragging his left foot into the onrushing goalkeeper, he created doubt in the referee's mind.' However, Mark Clattenburg, who officiated the Euro 2016 final, disagreed, telling Fox Sports: 'That is not a simulation. There is a clear contact. I would rather the referee have a look at this again to give a penalty kick.'
Former assistant referee Darren Cann also felt England should have been awarded a penalty, saying: 'For me, I think that's a penalty.' Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart added: 'If I've got it written on my water bottle, I'm working out where Harry Kane's next penalty is going to be. He will be absolutely delighted when he looks up and sees the referee not giving this, because I would expect that to be given against me.'
Impact on the match
England had gone a goal down after just seven minutes following Brian Cipenga's strike and struggled to break down DR Congo's defence. The denied penalty added to England's frustration as they sought an equalizer. The debate over the decision continues to divide opinion among pundits and fans.
