FIFA defend VAR decision to disallow Croatia's stoppage time equaliser for hair flick as Portugal go through
FIFA utilized Connected Ball Technology to overturn a stoppage-time goal by Croatia against Portugal, citing a slight touch detected by internal sensors. The decision confirmed an offside offense, resulting in Croatia's elimination from the tournament.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the increasing reliance on sensor-based data and AI-driven technology in professional sports officiating to resolve controversial calls.
FIFA have explained why Croatia's dramatic stoppage-time equaliser against Portugal was ruled out after VAR intervened. Connected Ball Technology detected the slightest touch from Igor Matanovic in the build-up, allowing officials to confirm an offside offence and sending Portugal through while Croatia crashed out.
The report provides a factual account of the match events and FIFA's official explanation without taking a stance on the fairness of the rule.
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