LAGOS, Nigeria — Semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) go begin for English Premier League this weekend, as dem try reduce delay and argument wey dey happen after VAR decisions. Di rollout dey start for Manchester City match against Crystal Palace on Saturday, April 12.
Di introduction of dis technology, which clubs vote for last April, don dey long overdue. Trials push di rollout from autumn due to perceived need for better preparation. Dis SAOT go automate some aspect of offside reviews, making am easier for officials to make accurate calls.
According to di Premier League statement, di AI-based system go enhance speed, efficiency, and accuracy of offside judgment. I no go involve other VAR decisions like penalties, handballs, or fouls.
SAOT already dey used for Champions League and FA Cup dis season. When tight offside decisions dey happen, SAOT go assist VAR officials to determine critical moments faster, while reducing human error.
Previously, officials need to manually analyze di angles and timing of di play, but dis new system go automatically handle three key aspects of di review process. MLS and Serie A don already implement SAOT, and now e don reach di Premier League.
Installation of bespoke cameras for all 20 Premier League stadiums don complete, tracking player movements and ball action at 100 frames per second. Dis new technology dey expect to cut di average offside check time by 31 seconds.
In a recent FA Cup match, SAOT faced some hitches when Bournemouth’s goal was disallowed after officials had to revert to manual checks due to crowding in di penalty area. Di Football Association don recognize di need for speedier technology adaptation going forward.
Jason Tindall, Newcastle’s assistant manager, respond positively to di new technology, saying, ‘Everyone welcomes any change that will make di league better and make these decisions a lot quicker.’
Dis upgrade come as fans and players alike hope for enhanced clarity and speed in decision-making, as di football world keenly awaits di debut of dis technology on Saturday. E go show how technology fit reshape di football landscape for di better.
