FIFA finally overturned Mikel Merino disallowed goal to be counted as goal after latest review shows that there was error in the VAR review – Decision taken this morning

In an unprecedented move, FIFA has officially reversed the controversial decision to disallow Mikel Merino’s goal, a decision that had previously sparked outrage across the footballing world. The governing body admitted that a clear error was made during the VAR review process and has now ruled that the goal should indeed be counted.

The dramatic U-turn was confirmed early this morning after a series of high-level discussions and technical evaluations by the FIFA VAR Review Panel. The original incident occurred during a crucial knockout-stage match, when Merino’s powerful header found the back of the net—only to be ruled out after a lengthy VAR check for an alleged offside in the buildup.

Immediately after the match, critics pointed to freeze-frame footage and multiple replay angles that appeared to show Merino clearly onside. Analysts on major broadcast networks were quick to call the decision “questionable” and “unacceptable,” especially given the magnitude of the game and what was at stake.

FIFA, under increasing pressure from national federations and media outlets, promised a swift review. After almost 72 hours of mounting speculation, the world’s football governing body finally acknowledged its mistake.

In a formal press conference held at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich, a spokesperson delivered the official statement:

“After a comprehensive and independent review of the match footage and VAR protocols, the FIFA VAR Review Panel has identified a misjudgment in the application of offside law during the review of Mikel Merino’s goal. The goal has now been awarded and will be officially recorded in the match result.”

The spokesperson continued by emphasizing the broader implications of the error:

“We deeply regret the oversight and recognize the need to further strengthen our VAR protocols to maintain the credibility and integrity of the sport.”

Mikel Merino, the man at the heart of the controversy, responded to the news with a brief but powerful message on his social media accounts:
“Justice. It took a while but glad the right call has been made.”

His message was met with overwhelming support from fans and fellow players, many of whom had rallied behind him since the decision was made during the game. Supporters flooded social platforms with messages of vindication and renewed hope in football’s governing bodies.

The goal’s reinstatement will now affect several aspects of the competition’s statistics. Individual records for both Merino and the tournament’s goal scorers list will be updated. However, FIFA has clarified that the overall result of the match in question will not be changed, in line with established tournament regulations which prevent result alterations post-final whistle.

Despite this, the reversal has reignited fierce debate over the reliability and transparency of VAR technology. Many pundits and ex-professionals are now calling for FIFA to explore options like live audio broadcasting of VAR discussions during games to enhance accountability and public trust.

Former international referee Mark Clattenburg commented on the issue during a TV panel:

“It’s a step in the right direction, but we need to go further. The VAR system has potential, but it lacks transparency. Fans deserve to hear how these decisions are made in real-time.”

This isn’t the first time VAR has come under fire during major tournaments, but what makes this case remarkable is FIFA’s rare willingness to reverse a decision after the match concluded—something the organization has traditionally been reluctant to do.

Football associations around the world are already applauding the move. The Spanish Football Federation released a brief statement praising FIFA for its “courage and commitment to justice,” while several former players lauded the ruling as a “win for fair play.”

For Merino, it’s not just about the goal—it’s about the principle. The midfielder had given his all on the pitch and was visibly disheartened when his effort was cancelled. The turnaround now restores not only a goal but his personal record and his faith in the system.

As FIFA looks ahead, it has promised to conduct a full-scale audit of its current VAR operations. The goal is to refine review procedures, improve referee training, and invest in better offside detection tools—possibly including AI-assisted technology already being trialed in other competitions.

Fans will be watching closely to see if this marks a genuine shift in how FIFA handles officiating errors. For now, the Merino case stands as a landmark moment in the VAR era—a sign that football’s authorities are finally listening.

But as many fans have pointed out, while correcting mistakes is commendable, getting it right the first time should always be the goal.

What do you think? Was FIFA right to overturn the decision? Or does this only highlight deeper issues with how VAR is implemented?