FIFA still rules out the use of technology

     

FIFA's refusal to use technology to help decide on close calls has left soccer isolated in major international sport, clinging to the idea that human error is somehow preferable to computer-backed truth.

While other sports have happily embraced the use of video replays or infrared systems to review goals and other close calls, earlier this year soccer's governing body ruled out the use of any such system for the foreseeable future.

The issue came into sharper focus than ever after decisions, shown by instant replays to be incorrect beyond any reasonable doubt, altered the balance of Sunday's two World Cup second round matches.

First it was a shot from Frank Lampard that clattered against the German crossbar and bounced down well over the line when England, chasing a comeback, were 2-1 down. Germany, clearly rattled at the time, went on to win 4-1.

In the later game at Soccer City, Mexico had been enjoying the better of the game against Argentina when Carlos Tevez scored from a clearly offside position, setting Diego Maradona's side on their way to a 3-1 win.

Image: Germany's goalkeeper Manuel Neuer watches as the ball crosses the line
Photographs: Reuters