Croatia eliminated after ball sensor disallows goal

Croatia has been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a stoppage-time equalizer was controversially disallowed by video review, a decision driven by sensor technology inside the match ball. The incident occurred Thursday in Toronto during a round of 32 match against Portugal, which Portugal won 2-1.

With the game deep into added time, Croatian defender Joško Gvardiol scored in the 103rd minute, appearing to level the score at 2-2 and force extra time. The goal was initially awarded on the field. The pivotal moment came in the buildup, when Croatian forward Igor Matanovic attempted a header. Video replays were inconclusive as to whether he made contact.

However, the Video Assistant Referee, Jarred Gillett, advised on-field referee Espen Eskås to review the play. Officials were shown data from a microchip sensor, known as Connected Ball Technology, embedded within the Adidas Trionda ball. The sensor, which records data 500 times per second, registered a slight spike-similar to cricket's "Snickometer"-indicating contact with Matanovic. Because Matanovic was in an offside position at the moment of the detected touch, the subsequent goal was ruled out for offside.