England took on Croatia today, and Harry Kane had a chance to put his team ahead from the penalty spot. But the video assistant referee had other plans. Kane's first attempt didn't count—VAR determined that Croatia's goalkeeper had moved illegally from the goal line before the kick. So Kane stepped up again, and this time the penalty was allowed. According to BBC Sport, the VAR intervention proved decisive in England's opening play. Modern football's most crucial moments often come down to a camera and a rulebook.

Listen to this story

Hear this and more stories in a personalized audio briefing.

Open The Chonkerton