VAR denies penalty for Belgium as Surman's arm stays natural

The Belgian national side, known as the Rode Duivels, launched an immediate attack against New Zealand, and twenty minutes into the game a potential penalty appeared after referee spotted a supposed handball by Surman. However, VAR intervened and correctly ruled the decision out. Belgium chose to press forward from the first whistle, seeking to dominate possession early in the encounter. The early aggression set the tone for a high‑tempo match. The decisive moment arrived in the 20th minute when the ball fell near the New Zealand defender Surman. From that position the referee signalled a potential handball offence.

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Surman was accused of handling the ball, which would have granted Belgium a penalty kick. A penalty at that stage would have offered a golden chance to take the lead. Video Assistant Referee officials reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor. After a brief pause, VAR concluded the appeal was unfounded.

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The review determined that Surman's arm was positioned naturally, without any deliberate movement towards the ball. Consequently the handball claim was dismissed. With the VAR decision, the referee allowed play to continue and no penalty was awarded. The match proceeded without the expected set‑piece for Belgium.