Toni Kroos Slams UEFA and Referees After Leaked Report on Controversial Handball in Euro 2024 Quarter-Final
Toni Kroos has launched a scathing attack on UEFA and referees Anthony Taylor and Stuart Attwell following the release of a leaked report that suggests Germany should have been awarded a penalty during their Euro 2024 quarter-final loss to Spain.
Controversial Handball Decision
Germany were denied a spot kick in extra time when Jamal Musiala’s shot appeared to strike the arm of Spain’s Marc Cucurella. Referee Anthony Taylor chose not to award a penalty, and VAR official Stuart Attwell did not intervene. Spain ultimately advanced to the semi-finals and went on to become the tournament champions, leaving Germany to feel aggrieved over the missed decision.
Months after the tournament, a leaked report from UEFA’s Referees’ Committee has surfaced, indicating that the Cucurella handball incident should have resulted in a penalty for Germany. The report has fueled frustration in Germany, with Toni Kroos leading the charge in criticizing the handling of the decision.
Kroos Mocks UEFA’s Delayed Realization
Kroos did not hold back in expressing his disbelief over UEFA’s late acknowledgment of the error. Speaking to Marca, Kroos sarcastically remarked, “It took them three months to realize that there was a handball, something that almost everyone could see in a second. That reassures me a lot (laughs).”
The midfielder added, “Can I say that I am now European champion because it has been officially confirmed? I don’t think so,” mocking the futility of the report after the fact.
Frustration Among German Fans
The leaked report has only deepened the disappointment for German fans, who feel that a crucial decision altered the outcome of the match and, potentially, the tournament. Kroos’ remarks reflect the broader frustration within the German football community about the handling of refereeing decisions in high-stakes matches.
