Fans question whether the ball went out of play before Japan’s crucial second goal against Spain 

Fans have taken aim at VAR again during the World Cup as they questioned whether the ball was in play before Japan’s winning goal against Spain – with many left incredulous that the goal had stood.

Ao Tanaka scored from close range as Japan came from behind to lead against their European opponents, but the winning goal has come under scrutiny after the ball appeared to go out for a goal kick.

The goal was initially disallowed with the ball appearing to have crossed the line before Kaoru Mitoma’s cross into the box.

Japan’s Kaoru Mitoma was ruled by VAR to have kept the ball in play for their winner

The controversial goal sparked debate on social media over the decision reached by VAR

A long VAR check followed with Tanaka eventually awarded the goal, after it was ruled that the whole ball had not crossed the line – with pundits and commentators left baffled by the ruling.

‘That dead ball line is going to be a part of Japanese football history as things stand,’ ITV commentator Clive Tyldesley said.

‘I need another look at that one Clive’, co-commentator Ally McCoist said, prompting Tyldesley to quip ‘Oh I think we’ll be seeing it again.’

Fans on social media also questioned the decision to award the goal.

Japan’s controversial goal was one of their most important in history – but it will be talked about for a long time to come

‘How’s that second Japan goal stood,’ one fan said on Twitter. ‘VAR is a great laugh.’

A second fan claimed ‘Surely VAR has failed again. That ball for Japan’s second goal looked out. VAR will struggle to get out of the group stage.’

‘Not sure how VAR has given that Japan goal,’ another bemused fan tweeted. ‘Whole of the ball looked out.’ 

The decision reached by VAR did receive some backing.

‘It’s the absolute apex on the circumference of the ball that counts, and it looks like that’s still in play to me…’ one fan said.

Japan held on to secure a historic victory over Spain, which saw the Asian nation top Group E.

Spain progressed as the runners-up, with four-time winners Germany crashing out.