Former Newcastle United striker, Alan Shearer, has given his verdict on Referee Felix Zwayer’s decision to award England a penalty against the Netherlands during both teams’ Euro 2024 semi-final tie on Wednesday night.
Recall that Xavi Simons scored a goal for Netherlands before England were handed a controversial spot kick when Harry Kane hit the deck before the 20-minute mark.
The Bayern Munich striker had already skied his effort when he was clipped by Denzel Dumfries, who was booked for his role in the goal, which was awarded by Referee Zwayer after a VAR check.
Zwayer had originally awarded the goal kick, but changed his mind after a check with the technology.
Kane converted the penalty and Ollie Watkins scored a late goal to ensure the Three Lions defeated the Dutch team 2-1.
“There is no doubt that there is contact, but the defender [Dumfries] is trying to block the ball,” Shearer said on BBC Radio 5 live.
“The follow-through from Harry Kane makes the connection and I didn’t think it was a howler to be turned over.”
Euro 2024: ‘Dumfries trying to block ball’ – Alan Shearer on England’s penalty against Netherlands
