Germany was eliminated at the Round of 32 stage on Monday, June 29, after losing to Paraguay on penalties.

Following their elimination, many expressed concern and shock given the team's history of strong performances in previous tournaments, with some attributing the exit to a goal scored by Jonathan Tah in the 105th minute that was later disallowed.

The goal was ruled out after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review showed that Waldemar Anton pushed Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill just before the ball crossed the line.

The decision proved a major blow to Germany, which had dominated possession with about 75 percent of the ball and created several chances throughout the match.

In response to the controversy, FIFA, through an official media briefing in Dallas, United States, and a simultaneous statement from its Zurich headquarters on Tuesday, explained that goalkeepers must be allowed to challenge for the ball without obstruction and that any attempt to impede them would be punished.

FIFA's head of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, explained that officials had been instructed to penalise incidents in which players attempt to block opponents without making any effort to play the ball, particularly when goalkeepers are involved.

“Goalkeepers must be allowed to challenge for the ball without obstruction. Even minimal blocking that prevents movement is punishable.

"Although holding a position is not a foul in itself, when an attacking player is not interested in playing the ball and deliberately moves, even marginally, with the clear intention of obstructing an opponent's movement and preventing him from defending, referees and VAR, when necessary, should carefully analyse the incident and intervene.

"This is especially the case when the tactic is aimed at preventing the opposing goalkeeper from defending the goal," he said.

According to Collina, coaches and players had already been informed of the interpretation of the rules beforehand; therefore, the decision should not have come as a surprise.

"Coaches and players were informed, so it should come as no surprise that referees will punish these fouls."

Collina also said efforts to curb time-wasting during matches had been successful.

There are now time limits on goal kicks, throw-ins and substitutions, while players are required to leave the field for one minute after receiving treatment for an injury.

"These measures have all been very effective and have been unanimously regarded as very positive innovations," Collina said.