Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-03 20:40:00.
FIFA has confirmed that Croatia’s potential equaliser against Portugal was rightly ruled out for offside, thanks to technology integrated into the World Cup ball. Portugal took a 2-1 lead when Gonçalo Ramos scored a header in the fourth minute of stoppage time. Croatia appeared to have equalised with a goal from Josko Gvardiol nine minutes later.
Match Situation
In what seemed like a dramatic moment, Ivan Perisic sent a cross into the box. The ball deflected off Renato Veiga, heading towards Mario Pasalic, whose touch set up Gvardiol to slide it home. The on-field officials initially allowed the goal, seemingly considering that Igor Matanovic’s missed header had kept Pasalic onside.
However, referee Espen Eskas consulted the VAR monitor. The technology in the Adidas Trionda ball revealed that Matanovic had indeed touched the ball, meaning Pasalic was offside when he assisted Gvardiol. This decisive moment put an end to Croatia’s hopes in the tournament, sending Portugal through to the last 16.
Technology at Play
The VAR review employed a graphic similar to those used in cricket for determining whether a batsman has edged the ball. The ‘Connected Ball Technology’ utilizes a chip embedded within the match balls. FIFA shared insights through a post on X, explaining, “According to the data provided by Connected Ball Technology housed within the Adidas Trionda, it was proven that contact was made by Croatia’s #20 Igor Matanovic, allowing the referee to correctly determine offside.”
This technology includes IMU sensors capable of detecting even the slightest contact, represented visually as a ‘heartbeat graphic’ on broadcasts. Such advancements provide officials with crucial data, enabling swift and accurate decision-making.
FAQs
Why was Croatia’s goal disallowed?
The goal was ruled out for offside after VAR confirmed a touch by Igor Matanovic, which placed Mario Pasalic offside during the build-up.
What technology was used to make this decision?
FIFA used ‘Connected Ball Technology’ in the Adidas Trionda match ball, which has sensors to detect player contact accurately.
Key Facts
- Category:
- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-03 20:40:00
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Tags: #FIFA #VAR #correctly #denied #Croatia #equaliser #Portugal
Tags: #FIFA #VAR #correctly #denied #Croatia #equaliser #Portugal
