/betbarter/media/agency_attachments/3YXcMKaocLoKtpo5Mw2o.png)
/betbarter/media/post_banners/aFG8n7iJfpv8hwRmN6fs.png)
Semi Automatic Off Side Technology (Image Credit: Twitter)
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) recently announced that semi-automatic offside technology (SAOT) will be used in Group matches of this season's Champions League as well as in next week's Super Cup.
FIFA already uses the technology as it replaced the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system ahead of the 2018 World Cup. The sensor in the match-ball will send the data to help in fast and accurate offside calls. For the unversed, off-side is the rule in which a player crosses the defense team.
The referees on the ground take a call on the foul. However, there are many instances in the game when the referees haven't taken the right calls. Now, with the technology to be used in the European league, it will be easy for the officials to take the right call. Meanwhile, the technology will reportedly be used in the upcoming game between Real Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt on August 10.
“The SAOT will premiere at the UEFA Super Cup match between Real Madrid CF and Eintracht Frankfurt, which will take place on Wednesday 10 August at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium,” UEFA reportedly said.
On the other hand, UEFA Chief Refereeing Officer, Roberto Rosetti has confirmed that the organization is constantly looking to improve the game and support the referees. He added that the technology will help the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to accurately call the off-side.
“UEFA is constantly looking for new technological solutions to improve the game and support the work of the referees. 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,” Roberto Rosetti said.
It will be interesting to see how the technology works. It is always hard for a referee to catch up with the game. After all, they have to run around just like the players and concentrate more than the 22 players on the field.