FIFA Plans Semi-Automated Offside Technology Trial at Club World Cup After Awoniyi Injury

FIFA will trial an advanced semi-automated offside technology at the 2025 Club World Cup to prevent incidents like the serious injury suffered by Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who was placed in an induced coma after colliding with the goalpost during a match where he was offside but allowed to play on. The technology, successfully tested at the Intercontinental Cup and youth tournaments, tracks players' and ball positions to provide real-time audio alerts to assistant referees in clear offside situations, prompting them to raise the flag earlier. However, this system will not eliminate all delays or controversies, as most offside calls will still require validation and it is not designed for close decisions. The trial has been approved by IFAB but is not yet authorized for broader use in competitions like the Premier League. Additionally, at the Club World Cup in the USA, fans will be able to view live VAR replays on large stadium screens, though they will not hear referee communications, marking a gradual step toward greater transparency in VAR decisions. FIFA emphasizes that these innovations aim to enhance the overall football experience and improve match official support through technology.