Arabic version: شرح إعادة ركلة جزاء كين في مباراة كأس العالم

Harry Kane was able to give England the lead against Croatia from the penalty spot, facilitated by the video assistant referee (VAR). The spot-kick was awarded in the ninth minute after Luka Modric fouled Noni Madueke.

Kane’s initial attempt was saved by Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic, but VAR intervened to grant Kane a second chance because Livakovic was off his line. At the time a penalty is taken, the goalkeeper must have one foot on or above the line, and images showed that Livakovic had moved fractionally too soon.

Even if Livakovic had remained on his line, the penalty would still have been retaken. Following the save, the ball fell to Josko Gvardiol of Manchester City, who cleared it for Croatia. However, Gvardiol had also moved too quickly and was inside the area when Kane took his first attempt. This situation does not automatically warrant a retake, as the defender must impact an opposing player.

In this case, Madueke was positioned behind Gvardiol, and by clearing the ball, Gvardiol prevented Madueke from attempting a shot from the rebound. Kane duly despatched at the second attempt, solidifying England’s lead in the match.

According to BBC News, the incident highlighted the role of VAR in ensuring fairness during crucial moments of the game.