The recent World Cup game between Croatia and Portugal ended in heartbreak for Croatia. As time dwindled, Josko Gvardiol seemed to have equalized the score. A VAR check, however, determined that Mario Pasalic was offside during Gvardiol’s goal setup, resulting in the goal being disallowed. The decision hinged on a subtle touch from Igor Matanovic, confirmed by technology similar to cricket’s ‘snick-o-meter’. This preserved Portugal’s 2-1 lead and their place in the last 16.
Technology in World Cup History
This was not the event’s first technological intervention. During the group stage, Sweden’s Mattias Svanberg scored shortly after entering the game against Tunisia. However, his goal faced an initial offside flag. Review confirmed a crucial touch by Alexander Isak, putting Svanberg back in onside position. Similar to cricket’s Snicko technology, a graphic was shown to verify Isak’s touch.
The Technology Behind the Decisions
Football has progressed technologically, and the current World Cup balls reflect this. Made by Adidas, these balls feature a 500Hz inertial measurement unit (IMU) motion sensor, offering data that aids VAR and semi-automated offside processes. By tracking 500 times per second, precise ball touches are identified. Though primarily for offside calls, it also detects player touches.
An example includes Cristiano Ronaldo’s claim during his team’s match against Uruguay, which FIFA ultimately credited to Bruno Fernandes due to motion data. The Trionda ball captures the ‘external force’ exerted upon Isak’s boot, ensuring Svanberg’s onside status. Additionally, Adidas noted Yasin Ayari’s goals against Tunisia were the fastest recorded so far, at speeds of 120kph and 118kph.
Comparisons to Cricket
FIFA’s graphic, showing Isak’s touch and resembling a cardiac monitor, draws parallels to cricket’s decision review process involving technologies like Ultra Edge or Snickometer. Cricket matches utilize sensitive microphones to detect contact, unlike sensors within the ball. Despite some controversy, this similarity emphasizes the effort to achieve transparency in sports.
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