Radamel Falcao reveals his theory for baseless claim 'England had refereeing advantage against Colombia'
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Radamel Falcao believes England had a refereeing advantage against Colombia in their World Cup last-16 clash.
The former Manchester United and Chelsea forward, claims the referee's ability to speak English means "bias was certain", and essentially benefited the Three Lions' quarter-final charge.
American referee Mark Geiger had a busy night as Colombia racked up six cards for everything from a headbutt to cynical fouls to break up play, as the South American nation did their utmost to rattle England.
But unlike in previous tournaments where English players have failed to keep their calm and have instead reacted poorly to provocation, Gareth Southgate's men rose above Colombia's tactics and ultimately prevailed.
(Image: AFP)
Speaking to the press after the match, Falcao hit out at the referee, saying: "I found it peculiar that they put an American referee in this instance.
"To tell you the truth, the process leaves a lot of doubts. He only spoke English, some bias was certain."
Falcao wasn't the only one who had something to say about the match official, following the fixture. Diego Maradona - failing to see the irony - also had something to say about the American.
(Image: REX/Shutterstock)
"I saw a monumental theft," said the Argentine. "I apologise to all the Colombian people, but they must know the players are not to blame.
"It is the man who decides who the referee is who is to blame. A man like that [Geiger] should not be put in charge of a game of that magnitude.
(Image: PA)
"With all due respect, Pierluigi Collina, as the man who designates the referees, he is very bad. He must apologise to the Colombian people.
"I told (FIFA president) Gianni Infantino that if I worked for FIFA I would change everything. It has to be transparent. That's why I didn't go there.
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
"The referee will know a lot about baseball, but he has no idea about football. The Colombian players asked for VAR and he did not give it to them.
"Twice the English threw themselves to the ground and he did not admonish them. This was theft."