VAR controversy as Kylian Mbappe denied penalty during 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Senegal in decision 'world’s best referees can’t understand'

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There was shock at the 2026 World Cup when France were denied a penalty against Senegal after a VAR check despite an apparent foul on Kylian Mbappe by Sadio Mane.

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France appealed for a penalty when Mbappe went down in the box after a sliding tackle from Mane in the 58th minute. Referee Alireza Faghani didn’t point to the spot and instead gave France a corner.

Replays, though, showed there appeared to be contact and when Faghani was sent to the pitchside monitor by the Video Assistant Referee, it was expected that he would overturn his decision.

Instead he returned to the pitch and, to the surprise of most watching, announced that it was not a penalty. ”The attacker initiates the contact,” said the referee.

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Former England striker Alan Shearer was among those questioning the decision.

"I don't get it. You can see the lunge from Mane and his left leg catches Mbappe. How can Mbappe initiate contact if he is in front of him? It's bizarre it really is," said Shearer on the BBC.

Ex-Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann added: "I can't support the referee's decision to be honest. For me it is a clear penalty.

"My phone has blown up with messages from several of the world's best referees who also can't understand why a penalty wasn't given.

"For me it is very, very clear and I am extremely surprised he did not point to the spot after a correct VAR review."

France's frustration was soon alleviated as Mbappe scored to give them the lead.

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Mbappe's goal, which came from a pass by Michael Olise, was his 57th for France, equaling the all-time record held by Olivier Giroud.

Bradley Barcola doubled France's lead later in the game.

in added time as the game ended 3-1.

France play Iraq in their next game in Group I on June 22. They are looking to win the World Cup for a third time, having lifted the trophy in 2018 and reached the final in 2022, when they were beaten on penalties by Argentina.

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