For those who have been watching 2014 FIFA World Cup for the past few days, you might be aware from the goal replays that FIFA is utilizing goal line technology (GLT) in this tournament. However, no goals have been decided using the technology right until earlier today during the Group E match between France and Honduras.
According to the system which was provided by a German company called GoalControl, Honduras goalkeeper Noel Valladares apparently have bumped the ball into the goal while attempting to save it after the ball – fired by the Karim Benzema – was deflected from the left goal post and headed directly to his direction.
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Hence, it became the first goal ever in World Cup history that was determined by GLT which was also used for the first time in the tournament. France ultimately won the match with a final score of 3 – 0.
How the technology works, you asked? In general, the GoalControl’s system utilizes 7 high speed camera for each goal areas which constantly monitor the movement of the ball around those areas. The verdict was then relayed in mere seconds to the watch that is worn by the match’s officials. Here ‘s a look at how the very system was installed and tested at 2014 FIFA World Cup venues:
All in all, it is interesting to see FIFA finally embracing GLT in order to help match officials determine such a crucial aspect of football with much ease. However, some said that the technology will take yet another human element away from the game. By human element, I mean the opportunity for fans to debate goal decisions among each other – one of the many things that make football very lively among those that loved and breath the beautiful game.
[Video: FIFATV]
