Explanation: Why Spain are not penalized for Marc Cucurella's handball against Germany
One of the most contentious issues in Friday's Euro 2024 quarter-final between Spain and Germany, which La Roja won 2-1 after extra time, was the non-awarding of a penalty for the host nation during the additional 30-minute period. Marc Cucurella appeared to block a shot from Jamal Musiala with his arm, but referee Anthony Taylor did not award a spot-kick – and VAR agreed.
This caused great fury in the German campbut according to UEFA's guidelines – revealed by ESPN's Dale Johnson – the decision by Taylor and the VAR team was correct.
UEFA's pre-tournament briefing on handball gave a clear example with the likes of Marc Cucurella saying it should NOT be a handball penalty.
Arm close to the side, pointing mainly down / vertically, and / or a position behind the line of the body. #ESPGER #Euro2024
– Dale Johnson (@DaleJohnsonESPN) July 5, 2024
If the player's arm was close to his side, pointing mainly down/vertically, and/or a position behind the line of the body when the ball hit, it is not considered as an offense. Taylor followed these guidelines in the incident with Cucurella, meaning that he and the VAR team were correct in their assessment – although it is doubtful that anyone associated with the German national team would agree.
Spain It is unlikely to give more of the incident though, especially considering that they have a semi-final showdown against France – scheduled for Tuesday night in Munich – to prepare for.
