Explained:

Why VAR Allowed Japan's Controversial 2nd Goal Against Spain

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Their second goal in Japan's 2-1 win over Spain sparked a storm on social media that VAR was wrong to allow the goal

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Japan qualified for the Round of 16 after defeating both Germany and Spain as Group E "Group of Death".

While Spain progressed as runners-up due to a better goal difference, 2014 champions Germany were knocked out

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Ao Tanaka scored in the 51st minute as the ball went off the touchline to give Japan a 2-1 lead

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The ball did not cross the touchline in a VAR investigation. Social media suggests that the entire ball went on the touchline

Why did VAR rule the decision in Japan's favour?

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If the ball was on the ground outside the touchline, it was in bounds. Hence, part of the ball was in-line with the touchline

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The ball is out "when completely over the goal line or over the touchline in the air"

Germany out of the tournament as a result of the goal

Japan book their place as Group E winners

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