Short-lived joy: Holland’s Xavi Simons scoring the goal against France that was disallowed. — AP
LEIPZIG: The VAR check took five minutes. No wonder then that Dutch coach Ronald Koeman was furious.
He was adamant that Xavi Simons’ goal against France should have stood, but admitted that a 0-0 draw in Leipzig was a fair result.
Les Bleus still enjoyed the better of the chances as Antoine Griezmann missed two great opportunities.
But the biggest talking point came 18 minutes from time when Simons lashed in the rebound after Mike Maignan saved from Memphis Depay.
After a lengthy delay for a VAR check, the goal was ruled out for offside as Denzel Dumfries was adjudged to be interfering with Maignan’s ability to stop the shot.
“I think the position of Dumfries is offside but he isn’t disturbing the goalkeeper.
‘‘When that happens it is a legal goal in my opponent,” said Koeman.
“Also you need five minutes to check it? I don’t understand this.”
“France had better chances than we did, not that many, but I personally think the goal should have stood. Therefore my take away is that it is a fair result.”
A point edges both sides towards qualification for the last 16. Austria are third on three points after their 3-1 win over Poland, who are now eliminated. — AFP
