Semi-automated offside technology debuts in Champions League
UEFA’s use of a semi-automated technology for spotting offside violations has debuted in Champions League play. The governing body of soccer in Europe previously announced the decision to use the fresh technology earlier in the summer.
“UEFA is constantly looking for new technological solutions to improve the game and support the work of the referees,” claimed UEFA’s chief refereeing officer Roberto Rosetti. “This innovative system will allow VAR teams to determine offside situations quickly and more accurately, enhancing the flow of the game and the consistency of the decisions.
“The system is ready to be used in official matches and implemented at each Champions League venue.”
First use of the technology in UEFA games
The technology was used throughout the eight total European games on Tuesday night. In the first glimpse of this new VAR application, Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell was judged to be offside as his club went towards goal.
Fans inside the stadium and watching at home on TV could see a much clearer view of the offside decision. Instead of the typical colored lines that fans have been used to seeing over the last few seasons, the new semi-automated technology looked quite different.
A clear 3D rendering of the players appears on the screen and shows exactly how the player is ruled offside.
Copenhagen was also denied a late consolation goal due to this new technology. Although the goal was originally given, the new VAR implementation clearly showed striker Andreas Cornelius was just offside prior to the goal.
The new technology seemed to work well in the opening day of Champions League play (see above video).
Fans can get a second look of the new VAR execution on Wednesday in the Champions League games scheduled.
A sensor placed inside match balls maps and records all player movements throughout games. This method records data at a rate of 500 times per second. Along with the attention to detail, it also put in place to help cut down the time of VAR checks.