Drama at the World Cup
England's opening match of the 2026 World Cup against Croatia was poised on a knife-edge when Harry Kane stepped up to take a crucial penalty. What followed was a sequence that encapsulated the modern game's love-hate relationship with VAR.
The Incident
With the score goalless in the first half, Kane saw his initial spot-kick saved by the Croatian goalkeeper. As Croatia's players celebrated, a lengthy VAR check ensued. Referee eventually pointed to the spot again after ruling that encroachment by Croatian defenders had occurred before Kane struck the ball. Encroachment is when one or more players enter the penalty area before the kick is taken, and if it clearly impacts the play, the kick must be retaken.
"Harry Kane was able to give England the lead against Croatia from the penalty spot - but only thanks to the video assistant referee," reported BBC Sport.
On the retake, Kane made no mistake, firing low into the corner to give England a 1-0 lead and ultimately a vital three points. The England captain subsequently admitted his initial miss was "a bad penalty" but praised the VAR system for giving him a second chance.
Why the Retake Was Ordered
The Laws of the Game are clear on penalty kicks: defending players must remain outside the penalty area and at least 10 yards from the ball until it is kicked. If an infringement occurs and it clearly affects the outcome—for example, a defender encroaches and clears the ball after a save—the penalty must be retaken.
In this case, TV replays confirmed that multiple Croatian players had entered the box prematurely. As Kane's first effort was saved, the encroachment directly influenced play, because had the ball rebounded (which it did briefly), those encroaching players would have been illegally positioned to clear it. Thus, the retake was warranted.
VAR's Role in Penalty Situations
VAR has been used at the FIFA World Cup since 2018 to review penalty decisions, including encroachment. The process involves checking for offside, fouls leading to the penalty, and infringement by either team during the kick. According to the IFAB protocols, the VAR can only advise an on-field review if a "clear and obvious error" has been made.
In this incident, the VAR identified clear encroachment that was not picked up by the referee. The length of the check—around two minutes—caused consternation among fans, but ultimately the correct call was made.
Impact on the Match and Tournament
Kane's retaken penalty proved decisive, as England held on for a 1-0 victory. The win gave them early control of the group and eased pressure after a tense encounter. For Kane, it was a moment of redemption after his initial failure, and a reminder of the fine margins that define World Cup games.
The incident also reignited debate about VAR's influence on the flow of the game, but England fans will care little after their captain's conversion secured the points.
Key Takeaways
- Harry Kane's penalty was retaken due to encroachment by Croatian defenders, spotted by VAR.
- Under the Laws of the Game, encroachment that clearly impacts play requires the kick to be retaken.
- VAR continues to play a pivotal role in World Cup matches, for better or worse.
- Kane's eventual goal proved to be the winner in a tight opening match for England.
Quick Facts
Match: England 1-0 Croatia (World Cup 2026 group stage)
Penalty Taker: Harry Kane
First Attempt: Saved by goalkeeper
Reason for Retake: Croatian encroachment
Second Attempt: Scored
Outcome: England won 1-0
