Germany vs Paraguay: Why Was Jonathan Tah’s Goal 102nd Winner Ruled Out By VAR?

Germany vs Paraguay: Jonathan Tah’s late winner for Germany against Paraguay in the first half of the extra time was disallowed during their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash at the Boston Stadium on Monday (local time).

The Bayern Munich centre back thought that he had given the four-time champion a much-deserved lead in a rather tense and cagey game during the 102nd minute, when he headed a floated ball inside the net. But due to a decision from the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), a potential foul was spotted on the Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlanda Gill.

Referee Jalal Jayed was called to the pitchside monitor to review the build-up after a potential foul by Waldemar Anton on Gill before Jonathan Tah found the net. Following the VAR review, Jayed ruled that Anton had committed a foul and disallowed the goal, leaving the score tied at 1-1.

Earlier, Paraguay struck the first blow in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash against Germany, with Julio Enciso finding the back of the net in the first half to hand the South Americans an early advantage. Germany responded after the break through Kai Havertz, whose equaliser brought Julian Nagelsmann’s side back into the contest and eventually forced the match into extra time.

The biggest talking point arrived in the 102nd minute when Jonathan Tah appeared to have completed Germany’s comeback with a headed goal. However, the celebrations were short-lived as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened to review the build-up to the goal.

Referee Jalal Jayed was sent to the pitchside monitor to take a second look at the incident. After reviewing the footage, he determined that Waldemar Anton had committed a foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill before Tah’s header crossed the line. As a result, the goal was disallowed, leaving the score level at 1-1 and ensuring the contest remained finely balanced.

The decision immediately sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning whether the contact warranted the goal being overturned. Despite the controversy, Orlando Gill’s performance stood out for Paraguay, as the goalkeeper produced several crucial saves throughout the match to keep his side in the game under relentless German pressure. His heroics proved vital as Paraguay continued to fight for a place in the next round.