>I know the call stands regardless of its merit, but sheesh!
>
>I've watched the replay (I DVRd the game) countless times. I'm not as familiar with soccer rules, but there is just nothing there to call - other than a clean goal.
>
>What I find so amazing is that the refs are not required to give details on the foul. I enjoy watching the World Cup, but find it really bad that players are held accountable, but not officials and their calls. Even if it means a Jim Joyce or Ed Hockulee-type admission that someone got screwed, FIFA already has a major black eye for not issuing an apology or even an explanation.
>
>IMO, the model for sports to follow is the NHL. During the playoffs (and maybe even during the regular season), they have a "war room" in Toronto to immediately review major plays. It's not perfect, but has kept some seriously bad calls from standing.
>
>Even in the NFL, when one official makes a very questionable call, the other officials sometimes pow-wow to discuss the call before moving forward.
>
>Up to now, I had a mild rooting interest for the U.S. But now, I hope they make a serious run.


Football doesn't have plays. Stopping the game to confer over decisions would ruin the tempo. The referees decision is final but he can confer with his lineman if he wants. In the US case (I didn't watch the game) the commentators here say that it was a bad decision (if anything it should have been a penalty the other way) but you have to accept the decision and move on.