The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) have announced that Champions League Group Stage match balls will boast a semi-automatic offside technology (SAOT). The FIFA has already replaced the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system from 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia with the new technology within it's official match ball 'Al Rihla'.
The sensor in the match-ball will send VAR data 'to support fast and accurate offside calls'. UEFA will now introduce the connected ball technology for the Champions League group stages this season.
Reportedly, UEFA said, "The SAOT will premiere at the UEFA Super Cup match between Real Madrid CF and Eintracht Frankfurt, which will take place on Wednesday 10 August at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium"
UEFA Chief Refereeing Officer, Roberto Rosetti confirmed that European Football will launch the new technology from the upcoming season to 'improve the game'.
He said, "UEFA is constantly looking for new technological solutions to improve the game and support the work of the referees. This innovative system will allow VAR teams to determine offside situations quickly and more accurately, enhancing the flow of the game and the consistency of the decisions. The system is ready to be used in official matches and implemented at each Champions League venue."