For years, fans and experts demanded FIFA to use technology in order to have fair games whenever controversy rose. Today, fans and experts are still divided by the use of the Video Assistant Referee, or VAR, which has led to much confusion and questionable calls.
The system has been tested in several leagues around the world, and it's the first major FIFA tournament in which it's being used. During the first round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, there were som interesting calls that made headlines for different reasons. Let's have a look at those that we believe will change how football is played in the world.
France plays a key role in the use of technology once again
The first team to benefit from this cutting-edge tool was France. Les Bleus made history once again when it comes to technology, as they were the first to have a goal allowed with the use of goal-line technology four years ago. Now, history repeated itself in a good way for Didier Deschamps men. Tres bien!
VAR exposes Neymar's poor acting skills
The Brazilian ace tried hard to break through Costa Rica's wall of defenders, and was close to succeeding in his attempts. Nevertheless, VAR officers showed how he exaggerated a slight touch from a Costa Rican defender. VAR gives, VAR takes away!
Group B goes Spain's way and dooms Portugal
La Roja was five minutes away from being demoted to Group B's second place, but the right call came just in time after Iago Aspas' trick shot was called offside. In the exact same moment, miles and miles away, Portugal's heart was crushed by a controversial decision.
Nigeria still sobs over handball
What was the difference between Cedric's handball and that of Marcos Rojo? The Nigerian national team is still wondering about it. What stands out the most is that Rojo went from zero to hero, as he scored the game-winning goal for La Albiceleste in the final minutes of the game.
South Korea kicks Germany out of the competition
The defending champions had an appalling performance throughout the tournament. A loss against Mexico, a last-gasp win against Sweden and one more defeat against South Korea is the outcome of their three games, but the latter saw them lose the plot thanks to a right call involving the use of technology.
