Spence penalty overturned — VAR controversy
Alan Shearer called the VAR decision to overturn the Djed Spence penalty 'a joke' and 'nonsense', saying Spence did everything right.
Snapshot · The Rest Is Football
Bellingham saves England and sets up semi-final v Argentina and Messi
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Jul 12, 2026
Where this was said
Alan Shearer at the Match: England Won Ugly
At 11:05 · chapter starts 7:30
Rob Jones crosses to Alan Shearer at the stadium for an on-the-ground verdict — and Shearer is measured but blunt. England found a way without playing well, Norway were the better side in the second half, and the hydration break never sparked the revival Tuchel would have wanted. But what really fires Shearer up is the VAR decision on Djed Spence: he called it 'so bad', a 'joke', and 'nonsense', insisting Spence did everything right. As a sub with fresh legs, it was also Shearer's view that Morgan Rodgers' long-range effort — a shot only a fresh player would have the energy to attempt — was the catalyst for Bellingham's tap-in winner. [1] — Alan Shearer "Alan Shearer is livid. Djed Spence was denied a clear penalty when VAR overturned the referee's decision, and Shearer called it 'so bad', a…" 07:30
Alan Shearer's VAR Fury Over the Spence Penalty
Alan Shearer is livid. Djed Spence was denied a clear penalty when VAR overturned the referee's decision, and Shearer called it 'so bad', a 'joke', and 'nonsense'. Spence did exactly what he was taught — he's not to blame if the defender makes the challenge.
Bellingham Man of the Match count
Alan Shearer estimated Bellingham has won 4 or 5 Man of the Match awards at this World Cup, calling him 'absolutely outstanding'.
The Panel on Djed Spence's Penalty — Split Decision
The panel is divided on the Spence penalty. Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer say it was clear; Joe Cole and Micah Richards say Spence stretched his leg out deliberately. The debate exposes the impossible line between smart play and simulation.
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