FIFA statement on VAR chaos, Diogo Jota tribute, ‘beast’ Chelsea target wows – World Cup round-up

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1. Spain eased to a 3-0 victory against Austria as Mikel Oyarzabal scored a brace and Pedro Porro also got on the scoresheet. There was some controversy, though, as Joe Hart was left in disbelief that Marc Cucurella’s goal was ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his first-ever knockout goal in the World Cup as Portugal claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia. Goncalo Ramos netted the pivotal goal as Josko Gvardiol had a goal ruled out in the 103rd minute of the game.
3. After VAR had made its decision, the match saw a delayed finish as fans threw bottles onto the pitch in an angry reaction to the decision.
4. FIFA explained why the goal was ruled out in a statement after the match. “According to the data provided by Connected Ball Technology housed within the @adidasfootball Trionda, the official match ball of the @FIFAWorldCup, it was proven that contact was made by Croatia’s #20 Igor Matanović in the build-up to the goal against Portugal, allowing the referee to correctly determine offside and disallow the goal.”
5. Former Real Madrid and Manchester United star Ronaldo also spoke out on his international future after the prospect of his retirement emerged before the match. He will speak to his family following the tournament.
6. Luke Modric has likely played his final World Cup match after being knocked out of the competition. Ronaldo was spotted chatting and hugging him after the match and revealed he said his ‘goodbyes’ to his former Real Madrid team-mate.
7. Ronaldo and the Portugal squad paid tribute to Diogo Jota following their win, on the anniversary of his death. They presented a shirt bearing his number ’21’. “We won for ourselves, for Diogo, and for Portugal!!! LET’S GO!!!!” said Ronaldo.
8. Switzerland secured a 2-0 win over Algeria thanks to goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye. They will play the winner of Colombia vs Ghana.
9. Newcastle and Chelsea target Johann Manzambi produced what has been called ‘the best assist of the World Cup’. One fan called the attacker a ‘beast’ following his contributions, with the winger earning rave reviews online.
10. Justin Bieber, meananwhile, is said to be in talks to perform at the World Cup final. The pop sensation could join Shakira and Madonna at MetLife Stadium.
11. Spain star Lamine Yamal said it would be “an honour to play against Cristiano [Ronaldo] obviously” after his side progressed. The pair will face off for the first time ever on Monday, July 6th.
12. Jurgen Klopp is reportedly ready to accept the Germany national team job after the side’s World Cup exit. Julian Nagelsmann is expected to be relieved of his duties despite wanting to stay on in the role following a three-hour meeting.
13. Tensions appeared to flare between Egypt and US security when a child was blocked from taking a photograph with a player. Team manager Ibrahim Hassan looked to be involved in heated stand-off as a result.

READ MORE: World Cup LIVE – Cristiano Ronaldo pays tribute to Diogo Jota after chaotic end to Croatia clash