France full-back Theo Hernandez was spared a red card in their World Cup semi-final triumph over England due to an officiating loophole, it has emerged.
The reigning world champions advanced into the final four of the tournament courtesy of a 2-1 win over Gareth Southgate's side - but it was very nearly a completely different story after Hernandez sent Mason Mount sprawling inside the penalty area in the final minutes of the game.
Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio eventually awarded England a spot-kick following a VAR intervention, but Harry Kane blazed his effort from 12 yards over the crossbar. Kane had earlier scored from the spot to cancel out Aurelien Tchouameni's opener. Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud powered home a header in the 78th minute to break English hearts.
