Marco Silva Launches Furious Rant on Florian Wirtz Controversy - 'I Cannot Believe'

In the aftermath of Fulham's dramatic 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Craven Cottage, Fulham manager Marco Silva unleashed a scathing critique of the VAR decision that allowed Florian Wirtz's controversial equalizer to stand. Silva expressed utter disbelief, labeling the call as baffling and insisting it robbed his team of a deserved victory[1][2].

The match saw Fulham strike first through Harry Wilson, but Liverpool fought back with goals from Wirtz and Cody Gakpo. Wirtz's strike, however, sparked outrage as the German star himself admitted he was "certain it was offside" and refrained from celebrating, fully expecting a disallowance[1]. Speaking to Sky Sports post-match, Wirtz said: "I was pleased to score, but I would have preferred to secure three points." Despite his doubts, VAR upheld the goal, citing the Premier League's semi-automated offside technology tolerance of up to five centimeters—a leniency not afforded in the Champions League's millimeter-precision system[1]. Wirtz's foot remained just within the "green line" margin.

Silva, fuming at the decision, highlighted his team's midfield lapse but pivoted sharply to the officials: "It was a moment when we lost possession. We need to be more cautious... but I cannot believe that goal stood." He argued Fulham had little recourse and merited at least a point, with Harrison Reed's stunning stoppage-time volley ultimately salvaging a draw[1].

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher echoed the confusion, questioning the call using the penalty spot as reference: "I can hardly believe that was allowed."[1] In response, Fulham has formally requested an explanation from PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited), underscoring the growing frustration with VAR inconsistencies[2].

The incident reignites debates over offside technology in the Premier League, where margins remain contentious. Silva's rant amplifies calls for tighter standards, as Fulham eyes lessons for future battles against top sides like Liverpool[1][2].

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