Referees hold the unenviable responsibility of keeping games fair and orderly, but even a slight misstep can spark chaos and controversy. These moments remind fans of the fine line between victory and defeat and how human error can often change everything in an instant. For better or worse, here are ten moments that show how a referee’s actions (or inaction) can leave an unforgettable mark on the game.
1986 FIFA World Cup
Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” moment during Argentina’s quarterfinal against England remains one of the most controversial events in soccer history. In the 51st minute, Maradona leaped to challenge England’s goalkeeper and punched the ball into the net. Despite the blatant rule breach, the referee awarded the goal.
2019 NFC Championship
A blatant missed pass interference call during the NFC Championship game between the New Orleans Saints and Los Angeles Rams left Saints fans furious. Late in the fourth quarter, the Rams cornerback collided with the Saints receiver before the ball arrived. The officials failed to make the call, forcing the Saints to settle down for a field goal.
Game 5 of the 1976 NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns’ triple-overtime thriller featured a referee error that allowed the Celtics to set up a game-winning play. A timeout the Suns didn’t have was called by mistake. It led to a technical foul and gave Boston an essential edge in one of the most dramatic games in NBA history.
2002 NBA Western Conference Finals
Game 6 between the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers was marred by some of the most questionable officiating in NBA history. The Lakers benefited from an unusually high number of free throws in the fourth quarter. Sacramento fans believed the game was rigged, especially since the Lakers’ win forced a Game 7.
2010 FIFA World Cup
England’s Frank Lampard delivered a brilliant shot against Germany that hit the crossbar and bounced well past the goal line. The referee and linesmen, however, failed to see it, and the goal was not awarded. Had it counted, England would have equalized the score at 2-2, potentially changing the game’s outcome.
1999 Stanley Cup Final
The Dallas Stars’ Brett Hull scored the championship-winning goal in triple overtime, but not without controversy. His skate was in the goalie’s crease, which should have nullified the goal according to NHL rules at the time. Despite clear evidence, the referees allowed the goal, giving the Stars their first Stanley Cup.
2012 NFL Replacement Refs
During a Monday Night Football match between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks, a controversial call by replacement referees determined the outcome. In the final seconds, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson threw a Hail Mary pass, which was intercepted by Packers safety M.D. Jennings. However, the refs ruled it a touchdown for the Seahawks receiver.
2006 FIFA World Cup Final
In the closing moments of the World Cup Final (2006), French captain Zinedine Zidane headbutted Italy’s Marco and was sent off with a red card. While Zidane’s actions were inexcusable, fans criticized the referee for relying on off-field officials. France lost the penalty shootout, and Zidane’s career ended in infamy.
1990 Heavyweight Boxing Match
In one of the biggest upsets in boxing history, the referee gave Douglas a prolonged count when he was knocked down by Tyson. Many believe this extra time helped Douglas recover and eventually knocked Tyson out. That was a controversial count that remains a point of debate among boxing fans.
2018 US Open Final
Serena Williams was penalized by umpire Carlos Ramos for alleged coaching infractions, which she vehemently denied. The penalties escalated, costing her a game and possibly shifting momentum in Naomi Osaka’s favor. While Osaka’s win was well-deserved, fans criticized the umpire for harshly penalizing Williams, arguing that male players often avoided similar punishments.
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