The 32: Poor referees and not VAR the problem, believes Laura Bassett

The referees using VAR and not the system are the real problem at the World Cup, believes England defender Laura Bassett.

Whilst there have been plenty of examples of VAR working well and producing the correct decision, last night saw Iran awarded a controversial and debateable penalty in stoppage-time against Portugal.

That result, combined with Spain equalising at the death against Morocco, means that Portugal finished second in Group B and will face Uruguay in the round of 16, rather than hosts Russia.

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That came after Cristiano Ronaldo was booked, when many believe he should have been sent off and whilst appearing as a guest on Yahoo Sport’s daily World Cup show, The 32, Bassett revealed what she believes is the real problem.

“I was pro VAR [before the World Cup],” Bassett explained.

“I actually went into the hub at Stockley Park and experienced it from the other side, being a referee. It made total sense, it really did, the process.

“But I’d like to experience it as a player. [I] haven’t had that exposure [and] experience.

“It’s just interesting that we’ve had so many penalties. But If it’s the right decision, it’s the right decision. I understand [the issues] when it’s 50/50 and it is an entertainment business.

“I think that some referees are delivering and executing it better than others.”