Fans Outraged Over Spain’s Controversial Goal Against Portugal in Nations League Final
Spain gained an early advantage in their UEFA Nations League final against Portugal with a well-executed goal from Martin Zubimendi. However, many fans believe the goal should have been disallowed due to a missed offside.
Spain came out aggressively and struck first just after the 20-minute mark. Zubimendi initiated the move by passing to Lamine Yamal on the right, then continued his run into the box. Yamal’s dangerous cross led to chaos, ending with the ball in the net. But viewers questioned the legality of the goal.
Was It Offside?
The controversy centers on the involvement of Mikel Oyarzabal. While Zubimendi headed the ball forward, Oyarzabal – in an offside position – appeared to interfere with play by drawing Portuguese defender Ruben Dias away, giving Zubimendi the space he needed to score.
Despite a thorough VAR review, the goal stood. Spain celebrated going ahead in the 21st minute, but Portuguese players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, were clearly frustrated.
Online reaction was swift and harsh. Many fans pointed out that Oyarzabal’s presence directly influenced the defender’s movement, calling it a “textbook offside.” One user on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: “This is scandalous. The attacker clearly interfered with play from an offside position.” Others simply labeled the decision as “comical.”
Spain would go on to double their lead just before halftime through Oyarzabal himself, further fueling fans’ frustration over the opening goal.
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