FIFA has reviewed footage of Jude Bellingham's controversial opening goal against Norway in the World Cup, with new evidence indicating the goal was correctly awarded. Norway had protested that the ball struck a camera cable before reaching Bellingham, which would have necessitated a stoppage in play.
FIFA stated that sensors within the Adidas tournament ball showed no disruption to the ball's flight path. According to FIFA, the connected ball technology registered only three significant impacts during the sequence leading to the goal: the initial goal kick, a touch by England's Elliot Anderson, and when the ball hit the ground. The absence of a fourth impact, which would be expected if the ball had struck a cable, supports the decision to allow the goal.
Review of various video angles, including footage from the Spidercam itself, has been conducted. While one angle from behind the goal might appear to show a sudden drop, a side-angle view suggests a more natural ball trajectory. FIFA noted that if a cable had been struck, the camera itself would likely have shown signs of impact.
The connected ball technology, featuring a microchip inside each ball, provides real-time data on movement, speed, and trajectory. This system has previously been involved in other decisions during the tournament, including a goal awarded to Sweden after a slight touch by a player was detected, and a disallowed Croatia goal where contact with a player's hair was deemed to have affected the ball's trajectory.
Despite FIFA's confirmation, Norway's players and coaching staff remain unconvinced. Midfielder Sander Berge described the situation as "ridiculous," and manager Stale Solbakken reiterated that players on the bench immediately reacted, believing the ball had touched the wire. Solbakken noted that the referee stated he did not see the incident and received no signal from the ball's chip, explaining his decision.
This incident follows other controversies in the tournament, including the suspension of a ban for USA striker Folarin Balogun, which reportedly led to a call from then-US President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Questions have also been raised regarding refereeing decisions that appeared to favor Argentina.