VAR discourse regarding the Dutch “goal” is the primary topic of discussion in Leipzig. Ronald Koeman stated, “You require five minutes to verify it due to its complexity.”

The initial goalless game of Euro 2024 in Leipzig was anticipated to be a game that would be dominated by Kylian Mbappe. However, the Netherlands and France shared the points, and the VAR ruling became the major topic of discussion.

Mbappe’s disguise was never visible on the pitch, and we were compelled to focus on referee Anthony Taylor on the big screen while we awaited a VAR ruling.

In the 69th minute, the French net was breached by the impressive Xavi Simons. However, referee Anthony Talylor instantly raised the flag, citing Denzel Dumfries’ presence in the six-yard box, which was adjacent to Les Bleus keeper Mike Maignan. Consequently, the goal was ruled out.

Subsequently, a comprehensive VAR review was conducted, and although the managers held differing perspectives regarding the decision, they both concurred that it was excessively protracted. Perhaps the rationale becomes more apparent when individuals learn that Stuart Atwell, an English VAR official, was responsible.

In the post-match press conference, Dutch manager Ronald Koeman stated, “Dumphris is offside, that is true. However, he is not obstructing the custodian, so it is a legal goal.”

“Would you require five minutes to verify it due to its complexity?” I am unable to comprehend this. He is not causing any disturbance to the custodian.

In contrast to Koeman, Law 11 on offside defines an offside offence as “a player moving from, or standing in, an offside position is in the way of an opponent and interferes with the movement of the opponent towards the ball.” This offence is considered an offside offence if it affects the opponent’s ability to play or challenge for the ball. Maignan is diving towards Dumfries.

Later, Didier Deschamps expressed his surprise at the length of time it took, following Koeman: “I was taken aback.” Upon viewing it on the large screen, it was an obvious decision. A player was on the brink of a plunge. I believe that the objective should have been maintained; however, it is a justifiable outcome, and I am willing to embrace it.

The Dutch had suffered seven defeats in their previous eight matches against France prior to the game. The orange-clad fans who were crammed into the stadium were likely more pleased to secure a point, as Deschamps’ team had the best of the opportunities in this match. Their most recent victory over France was a 2-0 Nations League victory in November 2018.

Both clubs are expected to advance to the last 16 as a result of the draw in Leipzig.

“It is somewhat disheartening, but there were instances in which we were not at our best,” Koeman candidly admitted. “We erred by dropping the ball in an inappropriate location.” France had a greater number of opportunities than we did, although they were not as numerous.

“We have experience playing against France.” We were previously defeated in transition when they gained possession of the ball due to their exceptional speed. We opted for a distinct approach to the game, including the timing of when to press and wait.

The primary distinction for the Dutch this time was that they were not confronted with a French team that included Mbappe. He had scored four goals in the two qualifiers against Koeman’s team; however, his fractured nose prevented him from participating on this occasion.

“It was a unique experience for both France and us, as we were discussing one of the most talented players in the world and in Europe (who was unable to attend the match).”

Deschamps discussed his decision to leave his captain on the sideline. “I would have reconsidered his participation in the event that it was a critical game.” I believed that it would be more prudent to maintain him on the bench.

“(The Netherlands) were somewhat more cautious than I had anticipated.” We were unable to secure three points, despite having five or six opportunities to score.

“In a game of high intensity, they had two opportunities.” We fired shots that were not on aim. I would be concerned if there were no opportunities. I have no regrets other than the reality that we were unsuccessful.

France will next face Poland, while the Dutch will play Austria in Berlin next week.