Peljto: The penalty was awarded too harshly, but I don't think the referee did it intentionally

The media storm has not subsided since last night when the referee blew the final whistle of the Brazil-Croatia match, which the Brazilians won 3-1. Controversial refereeing decisions, including a penalty awarded to the Brazilians, are on the front pages of major sports publications worldwide, reports the Patria News Agency.

Mesud Peljto, president of the Sarajevo Canton Football Referees Association, told NAP that he has reviewed the footage of the controversial penalty several times and believes it was awarded too harshly.

- The referee emphatically pointed to the spot. My opinion is that it was awarded too harshly, but it shouldn't be seen as the end of the world. It's the first match, and I believe the referee didn't do it intentionally. The stakes are too high for his credibility, as six officiating officers watch the match and convene after it to make their assessments – Peljto said.

Many say that a foul was committed in favor of the Croatians before the third goal by the Brazilians, but the Japanese referee did not award it.

- In that case, he was very close to the scene of the incident and I think he saw it well. It's not as controversial as the penalty itself – Peljto stated.

 He added that the match was solid and there wasn't exceptionally good play, but he believes this was due to it being the first match.

- Clearly, the players' legs were still heavy, but well, there was something to see – Peljto added, believing that refereeing innovations like the spray for marking the wall line for free kicks and the chip in the balls will help the referees.

- These make the referees' job easier. There are no more doubts. If the ball crosses the goal line, the watch on his wrist immediately beeps. That's good and will reduce some doubts – Peljto concluded.