In a recent match between Torino and AC Milan, a malfunction in the Goal Line Technology system caused some initial confusion regarding a critical goal. The technology, which relies on a sensor linked to the referee’s wrist device, failed to signal that the ball, controlled by Torino’s defender Malick Thiaw, had crossed the goal line. This meant that referee Marco Maresca did not award the goal immediately.
Despite the setback with the technology, officials in the video review room, Gianluca Doveri and Luca Di Bello, had the opportunity to analyze replays of the incident. They confirmed without a doubt that the entire ball had crossed the line. Acting swiftly, the VAR officials communicated their findings to Maresca on the pitch.
Once informed of the reality, Maresca promptly validated the goal, granting Torino a crucial lead over their opponents. This incident highlights both the challenges and importance of technology in football, as well as the role of referees in making the final call based on available evidence.