FIFA finds "no evidence" that ball hit wire in key moment of England vs. Norway quarterfinal - NBC Sports
FIFA has denied claims that a ball struck an overhead wire during a World Cup quarterfinal match between England and Norway. The organization cited sensor data from the 'Connected Ball' to support its conclusion, despite visual evidence suggesting an abrupt change in the ball's trajectory.
Why it matters
The incident highlights ongoing debates regarding the reliability of sports technology and the transparency of officiating in high-stakes international tournaments.
Sometimes, life imitates art. And football imitates football.
During a Vikings-Browns game in England last season, a field goal attempt by Minnesota kicker Will Reichard apparently struck an overhead wire . (The league strongly prefers that this not be mentioned . So we won’t.) During Saturday’s England-Norway game in Miami, the ball apparently struck an overhead wire during first-half stoppage time of the World Cup quarterfinal, setting the stage for the decisive goal by England’s Jude Bellingham.
FIFA apparently would also strongly prefer that it not be mentioned.
Via ESPN, FIFA claims there is “ no evidence ” that the ball hit a foreign object.
The rules require play to be stopped with a drop ball to resume the action, if it’s noticed. Because it wasn’t noticed, England won possession of the ball and soon thereafter scored.
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