World Cup 2026: Top 10 Most Controversial VAR Decisions Ranked

World Cup 2026: Top 10 Most Controversial VAR Decisions Ranked
Planet Football ranked the tournament’s 10 most controversial VAR incidents.
Lionel Messi’s challenge against Algeria tops the list of disputed decisions.

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decisions have remained one of the biggest talking points at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several controversial calls drawing criticism from players, coaches and supporters throughout the tournament.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that in its third World Cup appearance, VAR has been expanded to allow officials to issue yellow cards in cases of mistaken identity. Despite the changes, a number of decisions have continued to divide opinion.

Sports website Planet Football has ranked what it considers the tournament’s ten most controversial VAR incidents so far.

10. Argentina vs Egypt

Egypt had a second goal ruled out for a foul earlier in the build-up after taking a 2-0 lead. While Planet Football agreed with the decision, Egypt protested the lengthy review and also complained about a penalty appeal that was ignored before they eventually lost the match.

9. England vs Ghana

Ghana were denied a penalty after Ezri Konsa brought down Prince Adu inside the area, with many believing the challenge warranted a spot-kick.

8. Brazil vs Scotland

Vinicius Junior had a goal ruled out for a marginal foul on Jack Hendry, although Brazil still went on to win the match.

7. Colombia vs Portugal

Davinson Sanchez’s goal was disallowed for a marginal offside decision. Former England striker Wayne Rooney criticised the call, insisting the defender was onside.

6. Ecuador vs Germany

Germany escaped a VAR review after Aleksandar Pavlovic appeared to catch Pedro Vite in the face during the build-up to a goal.

5. Germany vs Paraguay

Jonathan Tah’s goal was ruled out after VAR judged Waldemar Anton had fouled goalkeeper Orlando Gill from a corner, a decision many considered harsh.

4. Portugal vs Croatia

Croatia’s late equaliser was disallowed for offside following a complex VAR review that split opinion despite aligning with the laws of the game.

3. France vs Senegal

France were denied a penalty after Sadio Mane appeared to foul Kylian Mbappe. The referee upheld his original decision following a VAR review.

2. USA vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

Folarin Balogun was sent off after a VAR review for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic. His suspension was later overturned.

1. Argentina vs Algeria

Lionel Messi escaped a red card after a challenge on Aissa Mandi that many believed deserved a dismissal. VAR did not recommend an on-field review, making it Planet Football’s most controversial VAR decision of the tournament.