‘Disgraceful. What’s the point of VAR?': Didier Drogba goes ballistic over controversial decision in Ivory Coast defeat

Nicolas Pepe was brought down inside the Norway box. But the referee and the Video Assistant Referee didn't award a penalty, allowing play to continue.

Published on: Jul 1, 2026, 17:31:05 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Didier Drogba was left fuming as the Ivory Coast crashed out of the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, losing to Norway 1-2 in their Round of 32 showdown. According to the Chelsea legend, the African side were denied a clear penalty when Nicolas Pepe was tackled inside the Norwegian box in the second half.

Didier Drogba criticised VAR for ignoring a penalty decision. (AFP)

Slamming the referee for not using VAR, the former Ivory Coast player called it a 'disgraceful' decision.

Also Read: ‘Portugal are being held back because of Cristiano Ronaldo’: Ex-England star launches savage attack on Roberto Martinez

Taking to X, Drogba wrote, “Disgraceful, that penalty not called on Nicolas Pépé, pfffffff, what's the point of VAR?!??!”

Pepe was brought down inside the Norway box, and his teammates made a strong appeal to the referee. But the referee and the Video Assistant Referee didn't award a penalty, allowing play to continue.

Erling Haaland scored in the closing minutes as Norway clinched a dramatic 2-1 victory. Haaland converted with ease after being set up on a platter by a stunning pass from Patrick Berg. Haaland has five goals and is one behind Argentina's Lionel Messi and France's Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race.

Norway face Brazil in the Round of 16. It was also the Ivory Coast's first-ever knockout match at the World Cup and its first appearance in the tournament since 2014.

Antonio Nusa opened the scoring in the 39th minute as Norway entered half-time with a 1-0 lead. Amad Diallo equalised for the AFCON side in the 74th minute, before Haaland's winner wrapped up proceedings.

Speaking after the match, Norway head coach Stale Solbakken lavished praise on Haaland. "He is the greatest goal scorer in the world, there is no doubt about that," he said.

"Today he didn't have much involvement, but he had a big chance in the first half and then scored the goal in the game. He is out of this world.

"He brings calm and a coldness to the team when you have a player like him.

"I actually think he is very underrated in terms of holding the ball up. He didn't lose the ball once today, and that brings so much to the team.

"I know he feels proud to be part of this, playing for his country, but he also knows this is a team that works together and he needs service from his teammates.

"To score five goals in three games at a World Cup for a little country like Norway is amazing, so all credit to him. And no, I wouldn't swap him for anyone," he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.