The first ever VAR penalty in the World Cup history was awarded on Saturday during France versus Australia in Kazan Stadium in Russia.
The penalty was awarded after France and Atletico Madrid star Antoinne Griezman was brought down in the penalty box by the Australia defender Josh Rishdon.
Surprisingly, the referee, Andres Cunha from Uruguay did not award the penalty at first until when he watched VAR footage.
He then decided to award the penalty, which Antoine Griezmann calmly slotted in leaving the goalkeeper, Mathew Ryan standing still. The score from the spot placed France ahead in their Group C.
However, their celebration didn’t last for long, as Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti’s clear handball in the penalty box awarded Australia a chance to equalize the score. Australia captain Mile Jedinak slotted it in.
Didier Deschamps’ men struggled throughout the second half to penetrate the Australian defensive display. Things changed after France first goal scorer, Griezmann was replaced by the Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud who produced an outstanding performance.
His one-two play with Paul Pogba on the age of the Australian penalty area saw Pogba taking a shot which deflected off the boots of defender Aziz Behich into the net past the Australian goalkeeper.
The game ended in a 2-1 in favor of France, thanks to their undying efforts.
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