During the first half of the clash in Qatar, Messi rose to head a cross, with Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny coming out to punch the ball.
Messi headed the ball and immediately after, the Pole’s palm touched his face, which was eventually awarded as a penalty by referee Danny Makkelie after a long check of VAR.
It all proved to be largely pointless as the former Arsenal stopper saved the spot-kick from Messi, but Ferdinand and Shearer were not happy at all that the penalty was given.
‘Disgraceful decision, disgraceful, this isn’t what VAR is here for,’ Ferdinand said on the BBC coverage.
‘He’s flicked his eyelash for starters, that’s an outrageous decision that’s been made.’
Shearer added: ‘Never ever a penalty, can you remember they brought VAR in and said it was for clear and obvious and they wouldn’t re-referee games, that’s never a pen.
‘Four guys here who all think the same. Ridiculous.’
They weren’t alone with their anger over the decision, with Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher tweeting: ”That is a joke, that is never a penalty! Embarrassing VAR.’
Chris Sutton added on the BBC: ‘He does catch him slightly but come on! That’s a terrible decision.’
MORE : Argentina qualify for knock-out stages of World Cup with Poland joining them on goal difference in thrilling group finale
MORE : Why Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez has been left out of Argentina XI for crucial group stage clash with Poland
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Share your story or advertise with us: Whatsapp: +2347068606071 Email: info@newspotng.com
