Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has faulted the decision to award England a controversial penalty in the game which England eventually won 2-1
He criticised the use of video assistant referees (VAR) for “breaking football” in Tuesday’s tense Euro 2024 semi-final.
The Dutch had taken an early lead through Xavi Simons’ powerful strike but Gareth Southgate’s side were handed a lifeline when Harry Kane was caught on the follow-through by Denzel Dumfries after the England captain had already shot over the bar.
No penalty was given originally but referee Felix Zwayer then pointed to the spot after he was advised to go to the monitor by VAR.
Kane levelled with the spot-kick and substitute Ollie Watkins struck a 90th-minute winner to send England to Sunday’s final, where they will play Spain.
“In my opinion it should not have been a penalty,” said Koeman.
“He kicked the ball and the boots touched. I think that we cannot play properly football and this is due to VAR. It really breaks football.”
Former England defender and ITV pundit Gary Neville felt the Netherlands had every right to feel aggrieved.
“As a defender, I think it’s an absolutely disgraceful decision,” he said.
“There’s no way that was a penalty. He just goes in naturally to block the shot. It’s not a penalty for me.”
Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk also felt the penalty decision was the turning point in the game.
Despite seeing the Netherlands’ hopes of a first European Championship title since 1988 dashed, Koeman offered England backing for the final.
Spain have arguably been the best side at Euro 2024, winning every game they have played, but Koeman still thinks England have what it takes to beat the Spanish team and claim a first major trophy since 1966.
EURO 24: Netherlands Manager Koeman Blames VAR For His Team’s Loss
