FIFA has provided an explanation for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision that disallowed Croatia's potential game-tying goal in the 12th minute of stoppage time during their 2-1 loss to Portugal.

The controversy centered on a play where Croatian player Joško Gvardiol appeared to score after a cross from Ivan Perišić. The initial call was that the ball might have hit Portuguese defender Renato Veiga, potentially negating an offside call. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was made that the ball had grazed the head of Croatian player Igor Matanović, thus resetting the offside line and disallowing the goal.

FIFA cited its new "Connected Ball Technology," which uses IMU sensors embedded in the Adidas ball to detect any touch. According to FIFA's media account on X, the technology confirmed contact by Matanović, allowing officials to correctly determine offside.

"It was proven that contact was made by Croatia’s #20 Igor Matanović in the build-up to the goal against Portugal, allowing the referee to correctly determine offside and disallow the goal," FIFA stated. The technology is designed to provide officials with a high level of data for quick and accurate decisions, displaying any contact with a "heartbeat graphic" to viewers.

This incident is not the first time technology has drawn scrutiny in the current World Cup. VAR was previously used to review Folarin Balogun's challenge, which resulted in a red card and suspension for the USA player. Additionally, a Colombian goal by Davinson Sánchez was disallowed for a marginal offside call in a Group K match that ended in a 0-0 tie.

While the intention of technology like VAR and Connected Ball Technology is to improve the accuracy of calls, these instances have led to criticism from some observers who feel that such marginal decisions are negatively impacting the game. The sensors used in the World Cup balls are not currently present in major American sports leagues but may be considered by organizations like the NBA and NFL in the future.

Portugal is scheduled to face Spain in the Round of 16. The match against Croatia took place in the Round of 32.