A controversial decision in a World Cup match, influenced by technology typically used in cricket, sent Croatia crashing out and Portugal through to the last 16.
In stoppage time with Portugal leading 2-1, Croatia appeared to have scored a dramatic equalizer through Josko Gvardiol. However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) disallowed the goal after reviewing data from a microchip embedded in the Adidas Trionda match ball. The technology, known as 'Snicko' or Connected Ball Technology, indicated a slight contact with Croatian player Igor Matanović's head before the ball reached another Croatian player, who was deemed to be in an offside position.
This use of advanced technology, which measures impacts, ball movement, speed, and trajectory, has drawn criticism from some players and fans who feel it detracts from the game's emotion and flow. Croatia's manager, Zlatko Dalic, expressed his disappointment, stating that such decisions can 'kill the emotions' and that football has 'gone too far' with VAR.
The 'Snicko' technology was invented by English computer scientist Allan Plaskett in the mid-1990s and has been a staple in cricket coverage since 1999, used to determine if a batsman has edged the ball. FIFA adopted its own version for the 2022 Qatar World Cup and it was also utilized in Euro 2024. Adidas claims the technology enables faster officiating and provides deeper insights into gameplay.
FIFA later issued a statement confirming the decision, explaining that data from the sensors within the ball proved contact was made by Matanović, allowing the referee to correctly disallow the goal due to offside. While the technology aims for accuracy and speed, its application in this high-stakes moment highlights the ongoing debate about the role of technology in sports.