Historic moments – including this one – could’ve been changed by video technology
#7 Thierry Henry’s handball sends France to World Cup 2010
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Thierry Henry’s handball against Ireland could’ve been exposed by video technology
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This one was truly scandalous and it remains a mystery how the referee didn’t spot it. France and the Republic of Ireland were facing off in a 2009 play-off match to determine which team would make the 2010 World Cup, and after France had won the first leg 1-0 in Ireland, the Irish needed to win in St. Denis to qualify.
A Robbie Keane goal midway through the first half meant Ireland had equalised on aggregate, and so the match went to extra-time. Late in the first half, Florent Malouda lofted a free kick into the box towards Thierry Henry, who controlled it with his left hand before poking a cross over for Gallas to nod home.
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The replays made the illegal handball pretty obvious, and Henry himself admitted to the foul after the game. The referee allowed the goal to stand though and France were given their ticket to South Africa, despite a lot of protesting from the Irish FA, including the proposal of a rematch.
With video technology, there’s no way the goal would’ve stood and so it could’ve been Ireland, not France, who went to the first African World Cup.
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About the author
Scott Newman
Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.
Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.
Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.
His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.
Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.
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