Thursday 13 February 2025 14:19
New technology is being introduced at the fifth-round stage of the Emirates FA Cup.
Holders Manchester United are to play Fulham around the weekend of 1/2 March, with the date and kick-off time yet to be confirmed.
The home tie is a reward for the 2-1 victory over Leicester City last Friday, when Harry Maguire headed a dramatic late winner against his former club.
In addition to Video Assistant Referees (VAR) being active from this round onwards, as had been planned, semi-automated offside technology will be used for the first time ever in competitive English matches.
This will be utilised in the seven games played at Premier League grounds, including Old Trafford, but not the all-Championship affair between Preston North End and Burnley.
The system is currently in use in the Champions League, and major domestic competitions such as Serie A in Italy and Spain’s La Liga.
If it proves successful, the technology is set to be introduced to the Premier League before the 2024/25 season is out.
The FA explained the change, saying: “Semi-automated offside technology will provide more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, based on optical player tracking, and produce virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters.
“The operation of semi-automated offside technology does not change the accuracy of the decision making but enhances the speed and efficiency of the process.”
In-stadium VAR announcements will also be made by the referees during the fifth-round games.
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Thursday 13 February 2025 14:19
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