Korea's Regrettable First Goal Conceded... Hampered by Revised Rules

International Football Association Board Decides Not to Apply Fouls in Similar Situations

[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 28th (Korean time), Ghana scored the opening goal in the Group H match against Korea at the 2022 FIFA Qatar World Cup held at Education City Stadium in Doha, Qatar. In the 24th minute of the first half, following a corner kick and a chaotic situation in front of the goal, Mohamed Salisu (Southampton) struck the ball into the net. However, just before the goal, the ball hit the arm of forward Andre Ayew (Al Sadd). Referee Anthony Taylor and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) team were aware of this. Yet, after communicating with each other, they decided to allow the goal.

The decision to allow the goal stems from the International Football Association Board (IFAB)'s rule revision. In March last year, it was decided that if a ball unintentionally touches a player's hand or arm and leads to a teammate's goal or scoring opportunity, no foul would be called. The revised rule has been in effect since July last year. Previously, even if the attacking team scored using their hand or arm without intent, the goal was always disallowed and a handball foul was called. Now, if the ball unintentionally hits the hand or arm and leads to a teammate's goal or scoring chance, no foul is called.

Of course, even if there is no intent, if the ball hitting the hand or arm directly results in a goal, the goal is not recognized. Ultimately, referee Taylor and the VAR team did not check whether the ball hit Ayew’s arm. They examined whether there was intent in the chaotic situation and judged that it was not deliberate.

Reactions from foreign media were mixed. The British Telegraph reported, "The goal was allowed despite the handball. Although the goal was scored, it remains controversial." The British BBC pointed out defensive issues, saying, "Korea was too flustered during Ghana’s free-kick situation and failed to handle it properly." The British Evening Standard also noted, "Handball fouls that caused problems have been tolerated several times before."

Korea fought hard with Jo Gyu-seong scoring two goals but lost 2-3. Falling to the bottom of Group H, the red light for advancing to the round of 16 has been lit.