The Most Controversial Referee Decisions in Football and Women's Soccer
Football, the beautiful game, is filled with exhilarating moments and heart-stopping drama. However, the most memorable encounters often stem from moments of controversy, particularly those involving refereeing decisions. Let's delve into some of the most infamous calls from both men's and women's soccer, illustrating how these incidents shape the course of matches and spark debates among fans and analysts alike.
Diego Maradona's Handball in the 1986 World Cup (Argentina vs. England, Quarter-final)
In the quarter-final match between Argentina and England during the 1986 World Cup: Diego Maradona famously scored the 'Hand of God' goal. Despite loud protests from the English players and their passionate supporters, the referee allowed the goal to stand. This incident remains one of the most famous in football history, setting a precedent for the importance of impartial refereeing in high-stakes matches.
Frank Lampard's Disallowed Goal in the 2010 World Cup (England vs. Germany, Quarter-final)
In the World Cup match between England and Germany: Frank Lampard's shot hit the crossbar and bounced down over the goal line, but the referee did not award the goal. This decision was widely criticized and led to calls for the implementation of goal-line technology. Such technological advancements have since been introduced, enhancing the accuracy of such critical calls.
Luis Suárez's Handball in the 2010 World Cup (Ghana vs. Uruguay, Quarter-final)
In the World Cup quarter-final between Ghana and Uruguay: Luis Suárez handled the ball on the goal line to prevent a certain goal. He was sent off, but Ghana missed the subsequent penalty, with Uruguay winning in the shootout. This moment is a prime example of how a single flawed decision can significantly alter the course of a game.
The 2006 World Cup Final Incident
During the final between Italy and France: Zinedine Zidane was sent off for headbutting Marco Materazzi. Many felt that the foul warranted a lesser punishment, especially considering Zidane's status as a superstar player. This decision has sparked numerous discussions about the appropriateness of disciplinary measures in football.
The 1998 World Cup Penalty Decisions (England vs. Argentina, Round of 16)
In the Round of 16 match between England and Argentina: England was awarded a penalty for a foul on David Beckham, leading to a shootout. The decision was heavily debated, and many viewed it as a pivotal moment in the match, ultimately resulting in England's exit.
Controversial Refereeing Decisions in Women's Soccer
Women's soccer is not immune to such controversies. The quality and consistency of refereeing decisions can often leave much to be desired, leading to heated debates and even calls for reforms.
The Becky Sauerbrunn Incident (US vs. Brazil, 2015)
During a match between the US and Brazil: Kelley O'Hara, fouling a Brazilian player, was a clear call. However, the carding of Becky Sauerbrunn instead, due to confusion with her blonde hair and distance from the incident, led to significant controversy. The worst part wasn't the incorrect decision; it was the subsequent display of the incorrect player being carded on the screen. The combination of a poor call and a display error made for an unforgettable moment in women's soccer.
The One-Handed Goalkeeper Incident (Orlando Pride vs. Chicago Red Stars, NWSL Match)
A defender for the Orlando Pride, Carson Pickett, who was born with one hand, made a play where her arm touched the ball: The referee called it a handball, which is a fair call. However, Carson Pickett, being a comedian, decided to embrace the absurdity of the moment, making light of the situation with a joke. It highlighted the importance of maintaining the spirit of the game, even in the face of unconventional plays.
These incidents serve as a reminder of the crucial role of referees in football and women's soccer. As technology evolves, we can only hope that these instances of controversy will become less frequent, ensuring fair and impartial gameplay that can be enjoyed by all fans.