FIFA addresses graphic outage during Qatar-Switzerland draw

FIFA confirmed that a brief technical outage prevented the display of a semi-automated offside graphic during the VAR check in the Qatar versus Switzerland match on June 13. Breel Embolo scored from the penalty spot after a VAR review cleared him for an onside position. The incident raised concerns about transparency, as commentators noted the absence of supporting graphics that typically clarify tight offside decisions. FIFA stated that the VAR workflow was not impacted and the decision adhered to normal procedures. The semi-automated offside technology aims to assist referees with tight calls but relies on visual evidence that was unavailable in this case.

• 1:05 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA explains lack of semi-automated offside graphic in Qatar’s draw with Switzerland