Brazil cite Messi goal in FIFA complaint over disallowed Vinicius strike: Report

Brazil have lodged a formal complaint with FIFA over the controversial decision to disallow one of Vinicius Junior's goals in their 3-0 victory over Scotland, citing a Lionel Messi goal as an example of inconsistent VAR decisions, according to a report by TyC Sports.

The incident occurred in the 24th minute of Brazil's final Group C game against Scotland in Miami yesterday, when Vinicius dispossessed defender Jack Hendry before slotting home what appeared to be Brazil's second goal.

However, following a VAR review, Mexican referee Cesar Ramos overturned his original decision, ruling that the Real Madrid forward had committed a foul in the build-up.

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Was it really a foul? Vinicius' disallowed goal sparks controversy

Although Brazil comfortably secured victory, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has reportedly raised concerns over what it believes is inconsistent use of VAR during the tournament.

According to TyC Sports, Brazil referenced Argentina's opening goal against Austria in their complaint, arguing that Alexis Mac Allister's challenge on Xaver Schlager in the build-up was similar to the incident involving Vinicius. On that occasion, however, no foul was awarded and Lionel Messi's goal stood.

The CBF argued that the decision to disallow Vinicius' goal was inconsistent with the refereeing standards applied elsewhere in the competition.

"The goal disallowed for Brazil against Scotland does not appear to be aligned with the philosophy adopted in the competition," the Brazil FA said, as quoted in the TyC Sports report.

"It should be noted that the decision seemed unexpected not only to Brazil, but also to the Scottish players, whose immediate reactions suggested they did not expect a review or the disallowed goal," the statement added.

Brazil are set to face Japan in the Round of 32 on Monday at 11:00pm Bangladesh time.