2026 World Cup: Why was Harry Kane’s penalty reversed against Croatia?

Harry Kane scores England’s penalty against Croatia – but only with a video assistant referee.

Luka Modric was awarded a penalty in the ninth minute for a foul on Noni Maduke.

England captain Kane saw his first attempt saved by Croatian goalkeeper Dominic Livakovic.

VAR stepped in to give Can a second chance as Livakovic was offside.

The keeper must be a foot or more from the line when the shot is taken, and images of Livakovic soon moved a fraction.

But even if the goalkeeper had stayed on his line, the penalty would have been taken again.

Livakovic’s save fell on Manchester City’s Josko Guardiol to give Croatia the lead.

But he moved quickly and was in the area when Kane made his first attempt.

This is not an automatic take-back as the defender must influence the opposing attacker.

Maduke was behind Guardiola and cleared the ball, denying the Arsenal winger the ball from the rebound.

On the second attempt, Kane dispatched correctly.