Controversial Use of Connected Ball Technology in World Cup Match
A recent World Cup match spotlighted connected ball technology as it made a critical decision. The system overturned Croatia’s late equalizer against Portugal, claiming an undetectable touch unspotted by the naked eye and video replays.
This decision culminated in Portugal securing a 2-1 victory in Toronto against Croatia, advancing them to the round of 16. Croatian players and fans believed Josko Gvardiol’s goal should not have been disallowed, alleging a mistake by the VAR and referee Espen Eskås.
The Science Behind the Technology
FIFA depends on a sophisticated soccer ball equipped with advanced sensors. The organization asserts that it made the correct decision, detecting Igor Mantanovic’s slightest head contact, placing Mario Palasic in an offside position leading to the goal.
The ball, named “Trionda” and produced by Adidas, contains an inertial measurement unit sensor operable at 500Hz, capturing 500 data points per second. The device tracks ball movement, including acceleration and position, identifying the precise moment of contact. This information works with in-stadium cameras to deliver real-time updates to video assistants.
Beyond offside calls, the technology also aids in identifying handballs and penalty situations.
Reliability of the System
The call was contentious as visual replays questioned if Mantanovic touched the cross from Ivan Perisic. However, reliance on the technology proved decisive. Referee Eskås consulted the sideline monitor, where replays and a “heartbeat graphic” indicated the ball grazed Mantanovic’s head.
“No matter the speed or spin, you can track the ball effectively,” explained Professor Manos Tentzeris from Georgia Tech.
FIFA boasts of the ball’s accuracy, asserting a 99.99% precision, showing player positions—even the tip of a shoe—which can impact offside calls.
Connected ball technology was first utilized in the 2022 World Cup and at the men’s European Championship in 2024, following trials from 2020-2022 at tournaments such as the Arab Cup and Club World Cup.
Previous Incidents
The system played a key role at Euro 2024 in detecting Denmark’s Joachim Andersen’s handball against Germany, leading to a penalty and eventual 2-0 victory for Germany. Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand and Croatia’s Zlatko Dalić expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that such decisions detract from the essence of football.
AP sports writer Maura Carey contributed to this article. More World Cup coverage is available on AP’s platform.