Jose Fonte's opener ruled out for alleged foul on Pau Torres

BeSoccer 2 years ago 1.4k
Fonte's first half opener was ruled out for a foul on Pau Torres. Captura/TVE

After just 22 minutes into the international friendly between Spain and Portugal, Fonte headed home from the corner to put his team in front. But the goal didn't stand, after the referee ruled out the strike for a supposed foul on Pau Torres.

Spain were dominating the match convincingly at the start of their international friendly against Portugal. Luis Enrique's side saw most of the ball and were playing much of the match in the opposition half, but they got a shock when Portugal appeared to score against the run of play.

The away side forced a corner which eventually ended up in the back of the net. Fonte beat Pau Torres to the ball, rising high and connecting with a header that left Unai Simon with no chance in the Spain goal as it flew in at the back post.

But referee Craig Pawson ruled out the strike for a supposed foul on the Villarreal centre-back. The Portuguese defender looked to use Pau to help him rise to meet the ball, although it could easily have been interpreted to have been within the laws of the game.

The controversy was even higher due to the absence of VAR. While other stadiums have utilised it for international friendlies, it wasn't available for this one, meaning Spain were able to avoid a second viewing and the score remained goalless.

Mentioned in the news story

José Fonte
Pau Torres
Portugal
International Friendly