Anthony Taylor under fire after 350,000 fans sign petition demanding Spain vs Germany quarter-final replay

Anthony Taylor, who was the on-field referee during the Germany vs Spain UEFA Euro 2024 game, has come under fire after he refused to give handball against Chelsea's Marc Cucurella in extra-time which helped the Spanish team to win the match 2 - 1 and the host were eliminated.

Meanwhile, the matter is yet to cool down as the German fans have now signed a petition for getting the quarter-final replayed. It is being reported that around 350,000 fans have signed the petition. However, it’d be interesting to see what would be UEFA’s take on this.

It is unlikely that UEFA will take any action on it but the dissatisfaction from the German fans’ have harmed the chances of Taylor being the referee in the final. It is now being reported that Italy's Daniele Orsato is the favourite to take charge of the match and Taylor has already returned to his home in England.

Also Read: Mikel Merino scores late winner to send Spain into semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2024

There is another reason for Taylor not being part of the final as England are also in the final’s race. The Three Lions will be up against the Netherlands in the 2nd semi-final and if they manage to beat the Dutch, they will face the winners of the first semi-final which will be between Spain and France.

Germany’s assistant coach did enter Anthony Taylor's room: Reports

Talking more about the incident, UEFA backed Taylor’s decision as they believed that Marc Cucurella’s hand didn’t touch the ball. After the match, there were reports which claimed that German coach Sandro Wagner was involved in a heated argument with Taylor in his dressing room.

"Sources have disclosed that while Germany’s assistant coach did enter the referee's room to seek an explanation – and was subsequently given one – there was not a furious row or a series of insults from Sandro Wagner," read the report. Instead, a calm discussion was held with Taylor departing after he showered." Reports