The first Premier League match to feature semi-automated offsides has been revealed.
Semi-automated offsides were used during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and has since been introduced in the UEFA Champions League, Serie A and La Liga.
Prior to the 24/25 season, it was reported that the technology would also be brought to the English game.
After non-live testing in the Premier League and live operation in the FA Cup this season, semi-automated offsides will finally be used in the top flight.
On Tuesday afternoon, an official statement from the Premier League confirmed the introduction of semi-automated offsides.
Itread: “The Premier League will introduce semi-automated offside technology on Saturday 12 April (Match Round 32). This follows non-live testing in the Premier League and live operation in the FA Cup this season.
“Semi-automated offside technology automates key elements of the offside decision-making process to support the video assistant referee (VAR).”
The statement continued: “It provides more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, using optical player tracking, and generates virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for fans. The technology maintains the integrity of the process while enhancing the speed, efficiency, and consistency of offside decision-making.
“The Premier League has worked in collaboration with PGMOL and sports data and technology company Genius Sports to develop the new semi-automated offside technology system.”
Officials can now call on technology to decide offside decisions. Image: Getty
First Premier League fixture to feature semi-automated offsides revealed
The first match that will feature the new technology will be Manchester City’s clash against Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium, which is the 12:30pm kick-off on Saturday April 12.
After City vs Palace, the likes of Brighton, Leicester, Nottingham Forest, Everton, Southampton, Aston Villa, Arsenal and Brentford will be next in line to test out the new technology.
The new technology is set to reduce the time taken for officials to decide whether a player is offside or not by a considerable margin.
Featured Image Credit: Premier League
Topics: Premier League, PGMOL, VAR, Manchester City, Crystal Palace, Football
