Toronto, July 3 -- FIFA has explained why Croatia's dramatic stoppage-time equaliser against Portugal was disallowed after a VAR review in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash.

The governing body revealed that Connected Ball Technology detected the slightest touch from striker Igor Matanovic in the build-up, enabling officials to confirm an offside offence and preserve Portugal's 2-1 victory.

Portugal sealed qualification when Goncalo Ramos headed them into a 2-1 lead in the fourth minute of stoppage time. However, Croatia believed they had forced extra time nine minutes later when Josko Gvardiol found the back of the net, sparking jubilant celebrations.

The goal was initially awarded as it appeared Matanovic had not made contac...