Why didn't Uzbekistan's goal count? Wonderful strike by Azizjon Ganiev called back vs. Portugal by VAR review originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Azizjon Ganiev delivered what looked like the goal of the tournament for Uzbekistan .
But on Tuesday in Houston, Ganiev's goal didn't actually count for Uzbekistan in World Cup Group K action against Portugal . It was called a goal on the field, but a VAR review overturned it.
Portugal led the match 2-0 about a half hour in when Ganiev's strike flew into the upper left corner.
Unfortunately, it wouldn't actually cut the deficit in half.
MORE: With Messi, history and magic go hand in hand
There was a foul in the build-up to the goal.
Upon review, it was clear the referee had missed a foul that resulted in the turnover that led to the goal.
Here's how that looked:
MORE: Cape Verde captures the magic of sports
It is notable enough contact that it really does have to be called.
It's tough to see how it impacts Uzbekistan's chances, though, already as a heavy underdog.
Portugal gets to breathe a sigh of relief right as Uzbekistan was growing into the game.
