Why was Aziz Ganiev’s goal ruled out in Portugal vs Uzbekistan FIFA World Cup 2026 clash?
(Courtesy : Getty)
Aziz Ganiev found the back of the net at the half-hour mark in tonight’s match.
Uzbekistan faced Portugal in their second Group K clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on June 23.
The Selecao das Quinas took a two-goal lead before the first hydration break, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Nuno Mendes scoring. However, the White Wolves thought they had pulled one back after a stunning strike from Aziz Ganiev, but it was unfortunately ruled out by VAR.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored with a fine finish to put Portugal ahead inside the opening six minutes. Nuno Mendes scored the second with a superb free-kick in the 17th minute. The European giants looked like they were in complete control of the game, but the World Cup debutants fought back after the hydration break.
Uzbekistan’s powerful press bore fruit when Joao Cancelo lost possession under pressure from Abbosbek Fayzullaev. The ball fell to Ganiev, who pulled the trigger from 25 yards out. The rocket strike flew past a hapless Diogo Costa and nestled into the top corner.
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Why was Ganiev’s goal not given?
However, the Central Asian side’s celebrations were cut short almost immediately. The Portuguese players crowded referee Jalal Jayed, complaining of a foul in the buildup. VAR then asked the Qatari match official to take a look at the incident on the pitch-side monitor.
Replays showed that Fayzullaev caught Cancelo on the shin after the full-back had lost possession of the ball. As a result, the referee adjudged that it was a foul, and the goal was chalked off, much to the disappointment of the Uzbekistani fans.
Meanwhile, Ronaldo scored his second goal in the 29th minute to ensure that his side went into the break with a healthy cushion.
Why was Aziz Ganiev’s goal ruled out?
Replays showed Abbosbek Fayzullaev fouled Joao Cancelo in the buildup, kicking his shin after winning possession. This is why referee Jalal Jayed disallowed the goal.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.