FIFA Confirms Disallowed Croatia Goal Against Portugal Was Correct, Citing Technology

FIFA has officially confirmed that the disallowed goal for Croatia in their Round of 16 match against Portugal at the World Cup was a correct decision. The ruling was based on data from a special sensor embedded in the match ball.

The game concluded with a 2-1 victory for Portugal. In the 13th minute of added time, Joško Gvardiol scored, but the goal was subsequently chalked off for offside.

“Data provided by the Connected Ball Technology, integrated into the official tournament ball, proved that Croatian international Igor Matanović made contact with the ball prior to the goal. This allowed the referee to correctly rule offside and disallow the goal,” FIFA stated in its announcement.

The governing body added: “The sensors in the ball can detect even the slightest touch, providing referees with an unprecedented amount of information for making quick and accurate decisions.”

Following this victory, Portugal advances to the round of 16, where they will face Spain, who defeated Austria 3-0. The match is scheduled for July 6th in Arlington, Texas.