The first half of extra time in the 2026 World Cup final was engulfed in controversy when Spain’s Nico Williams had a goal controversially disallowed for a supposed foul in the Argentina penalty area.

As the ball made its way across the box, Nicolás Otamendi went down theatrically under pressure from Mikel Merino. The Spanish substitute then slid into a tackle with Argentina goalkeeper Dibu Martínez, with the ball breaking to Williams, who slotted it into the net.

Referee Slavko Vincic, however, appeared to rule that Merino had fouled Otamendi, who had slumped to the ground after minimal contact.

Why was Nico Williams’ goal ruled out?

Replays showed that Merino had brushed into the defender, although Vincic is thought to have judged that the Arsenal midfielder stepped on Otamendi’s foot while the two players challenged for the ball.

The goal was disallowed for that reason, with Spain believing Otamendi had made the most of the minimal contact that occurred.

The decision sparked frustration among the Spanish players, who felt the contact was not enough to justify stopping play and ruling out what could have been a crucial goal in the World Cup final.

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