Why VAR allowed Endrick winner against England despite Brazil star being offside
Endrick’s winning goal vs England at Wembley was legal despite VAR calling him offside.
The 17-year-old became the youngest-ever male goalscorer in Wembley history as he tapped home in the 80th-minute. The goal triggered wild celebrations from Endrick after opening his international account.
He had scored after Jordan Pickford saved Vinicius Junior’s initial effort – the Real Madrid star having ran beyond the Three Lions defence. England stars were sure that the goal should have been disallowed with Endrick offside from the initial pass towards his teammate. Following a VAR check, the strike was allowed. And it has now been explained why the goal was perfectly legal.
While the youngster was offside from the initial run, he did not interfere as the ball was passed to Vinicius Junior. He then found himself behind the ball from the Real Madrid forward’s initial shot, meaning he was then back onside.
Former England goalkeeper Rob Green explained as such during co-commentary. Running the rule over a replay of the goal, he said: “Endrick offside. But not interfering. Vinicius Jr timing it to perfection. We know the outcome from there.”
While there was controversy around Endrick’s goal, former Three Lions star Joe Cole was full of praise for the youngster and his anticipation in scoring. Speaking after the full-time whistle, he said: “He won’t score an easier goal. This is what I’m talking about, that decision of shutting the back door.
“Dunk there just drops one into midfield and then it’s the reaction. Brazil were brilliant at that all night, breaking forwards.
Endrick was offside from the original pass
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“Vinicius should put it away. He will not score an easier goal in his career. Just here, they’re on you on that second ball and then they’re facing the goal.
“It’s a lovely ball played onside by Gomes round the back there but what I love about him here, he follows it through. He won’t score an easier goal. I think he’s got a bit of Romario about him.
“I was speaking to Gilberto about his body shape and the way he tucks it away, the way he struck the ball, a little bit of Romario about him and the joy on his face, the youngest player ever to score at Wembley for club or country, fantastic for him.”
Endrick will be aiming to add to his first Brazil goal during the current international break. Brazil take on Spain at his future home of the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, the Three Lions will be hoping to get back on track in their second game this fortnight. Gareth Southgate’s men are back at Wembley on Tuesday to take on Belgium.