Budimir denied a penalty as Hackett slams FIFA officiating

Budimir denied, Hackett calls it a penalty

Croatia 2–1 Ghana on Saturday, and your team are alive in Group L. But the win came with a flashpoint that has followed Croatia into Monday.

Former FIFA referee Keith Hackett re-analysed the second-half tangle between Ante Budimir and a Ghana defender and did not hold back: "I have to say that that looks like a penalty kick to me. I think the defender's got his left arm wrapped around" (1).

Budimir went down. The referee waved play on. Hackett reckons FIFA have "set the bar too high" for punishing that kind of contact at this tournament (1).

Two goals, one more than Ghana

Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic scored the goals that sealed it. Derrick Luckassen pulled one back for Ghana, but Croatia held on (1).

Three points, second in Group L behind England.

Panama next, Modric's landmark night

The win sets up a decisive match against Panama in Toronto. Luka Modric will mark a milestone appearance on the night. Croatia need a result to lock in a knockout spot after the 4–2 defeat to England in the opener.

Fan-reaktioner

Croatia fans online are split, half the talk is relief at the result, the other half is the penalty that never was. The Hackett analysis has only added fuel. Most supporters agree on one thing: Budimir was fouled, and the officiating in this tournament needs a long look. Join the discussion on r/soccer.