VAR Disallows Stunning Goal by Istra's Young Talent
Nik Škafar Žužić scored a beautiful goal, but referee Pavlešić disallowed it after a VAR review. Gordon Schildenfeld believes the decision was wrong.
Nik Škafar Žužić scored a beautiful goal, but referee Pavlešić disallowed it after a VAR review. Gordon Schildenfeld believes the decision was wrong.
The first round of the new SuperSport HNL season brought drama in the match between Istra 1961 and Lokomotiva, where the home team was defeated 2:3. However, the match was marked by a controversial situation in the 34th minute and the disallowed goal of young Nik Škafar Žužić, which sparked strong reactions.
After Istra was trailing and Frederiksen equalized to make it 1:1, Nik Škafar Žužić decided to take responsibility. From about 20 meters out, he elegantly got past his marker and struck the ball beautifully into the net for what seemed to be a 2:1 lead for Istra. It would have been his first goal in the green-yellow jersey.
However, the celebration was cut short by the VAR room. Referee Pavlešić was called to review the footage, and after the check, he disallowed the goal. The reason? It was judged that Frederiksen, who was in an offside position, was interfering with the opposing goalkeeper.
This decision did not go without comment. Former Croatian international Gordon Schildenfeld shared his opinion on MAXSport's show Studio SuperSport HNL, clearly indicating that he disagrees with the referee's assessment.
"I'm not sure I would have disallowed it. I don't believe Frederiksen was interfering with the goalkeeper. Simply put, the goalkeeper can see the ball. The referee made his call, but I would have done it differently. In my opinion, the goal was legitimate," Schildenfeld explained.
In the other match of the first round, Rijeka secured a home victory against Rudeš with a score of 2:1. Coach Matjaž Kek deemed the win deserved but also highlighted issues with finishing the chances created. Rijeka now faces a quick turnaround as they play another European match on Thursday at Rujevica. In the third qualifying round for the Conference League, they will host a representative from Finland.
