Spain thought they had taken the lead when Marc Cucurella rattled the net from a corner in their 2026 World Cup round of 32 match against Austria in Los Angeles on Thursday.
However, the goal was ultimately disallowed, leaving several fans in the stadium confused.
Marc Cucurella scored Spain’s opening goal against Austria, which is ultimately disallowed, in their FIFA World Cup round of 32 tie. | Photo credit: Getty Images via AFP
Marc Cucurella scored Spain’s opening goal against Austria, which is ultimately disallowed, in their FIFA World Cup round of 32 tie. | Photo credit: Getty Images via AFP
Just before the half hour, Spain were awarded a corner, which fell to Cucurella in front of a penalty area. The Real Madrid full-back put the ball into the net and cheered as referee Glenn Nyberg marked the goal.
Why was Marc Cucurella’s goal disallowed?
Nyberg felt there was a foul during the build-up to the goal, with Pau Cubarsi fouling Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
According to Rule 10.1 of the Laws of Football established by the International Football Association Board, a goal is scored when the ball passes completely over the goal line, between the goal posts and under the crossbar, provided that no violation has been committed by the team scoring the goal.’
Cubarsi’s error violated the final clause, giving the referee and video assistant referee team ample reason to disallow the goal.
Published on July 3, 2026
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