Why Florian Wirtz’s Goal Was Awarded by VAR – Despite Looking Offside

In a dramatic Premier League clash between Liverpool and Fulham at Anfield, Florian Wirtz's stunning goal sparked controversy after initially appearing offside. The German midfielder's 78th-minute strike sealed a 2-1 victory for the Reds, but replays showed him seemingly in an offside position when Mohamed Salah's pass was played. VAR intervention, however, overturned the linesman's flag, awarding the goal and igniting debates across social media.

The On-Field Decision and Initial Confusion

The goal came from a swift Liverpool counter-attack. Salah received the ball on the halfway line and lofted a precise pass toward Wirtz, who latched onto it before rifling a shot past Fulham keeper Bernd Leno. The assistant referee raised his flag immediately, signaling offside, and referee Michael Oliver disallowed it. Fans in the stadium held their breath as VAR officials reviewed the footage at Stockley Park.

VAR's Key Findings: Deflecting the Offside Line

Upon review, VAR chief Howard Webb explained the decision via the Premier League's Match Centre. The crucial factor was Fulham defender Joachim Andersen's position. Initial naked-eye replays suggested Wirtz was ahead of the last defender, but zoom-ins revealed Andersen's foot was marginally further forward than Wirtz's.

More importantly, VAR used the "deflecting the line" protocol. Wirtz's knee was level with Andersen's body, but the software drew the offside line from the defender's furthest body part—his arm extending forward during a sprint back. This placed Wirtz onside by a matter of inches. "The line was deflected to the most forward part of Andersen's arm, confirming Wirtz was marginally onside," Webb clarified.

Technology and Human Element

The incident highlighted advancements in VAR tech, including 3D modeling and multi-angle calibration. Critics argued the call was "paper-thin," with Fulham boss Marco Silva calling it "unacceptable." Liverpool's Arne Slot praised the precision: "VAR got it right—football's evolving."

This goal not only secured three points but reignited discussions on offside rulings, with fans demanding clearer broadcasts of VAR lines. Wirtz, post-match, shrugged: "I felt onside; tech proves it." Liverpool climbs to third, while Fulham slips to 10th.

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