BBC Sport pundits Joe Hart, Ellen White, and Lucas Leiva have argued that Leroy Sane's goal for Germany in their FIFA World Cup Group E clash against Ecuador at New York New Jersey Stadium should have been ruled out due to dangerous play in the build-up.

The trio pointed to a high boot from Alexander Pavlovic in the moments leading up to the goal, contending that the challenge constituted "endangering the opponent" under the laws of the game and should have been awarded as a foul against Germany.

Had the referee intervened at that point, Sane's finish would never have stood — a decision the pundits believe would have been fully justified by the rules of football.

The incident has drawn sharp attention to how officials are interpreting dangerous play at this World Cup, with high-boot challenges continuing to spark debate among players, coaches, and analysts across the tournament.