How the new World Cup ball helped knock Croatia out with use of technology
CNN • • sports
Key Points:
- In a dramatic World Cup Round of 32 match, Portugal's late goal was initially followed by a disallowed equalizer from Croatia due to an offside call confirmed by VAR technology.
- The offside decision hinged on a barely noticeable touch by Croatian player Igor Matanović, detected by a new sensor embedded in the World Cup ball, which provided precise real-time data to VAR officials.
- FIFA's new Trionda ball, equipped with IMU sensors, allows officials to detect even the slightest contact with the ball, enhancing the accuracy of decisions but drawing mixed reactions from teams and fans.
- Croatia's manager Zlatko Dalić criticized VAR for killing the emotions and spirit of the game, while Portugal's manager Roberto Martínez praised the technology for removing subjectivity from refereeing decisions.
- The introduction of sensor-embedded balls marks a technological advancement in soccer officiating, paralleling similar innovations in other sports like cricket and basketball.
