Fifa confirm goal-line technology tests

16/04/2012 9:40:00 AM

Following Juan Mata's controversial goal for Chelsea in an FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham, football’s governing body has reiterated that a solution is close

Fifa have announced that goal-line technology could be a step closer if the next set of testing proves favourable.

The International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body which implements rules, is currently undertaking a second round of testing to see if several technologies are viable for introduction to football.

The debate has been reignited after Juan Mata’s controversial strike helped Chelsea to claim a place in the FA Cup final at the expense of Tottenham on Sunday.

Television pictures seemed to suggest that referee Martin Atkinson incorrectly awarded a goal to the Blues when the ball had not crossed the line.

The governing body will now decide on July 2 whether goalline technology will be brought into the game.

Fifa confirmed the testing in a statement, saying: “The latest planning meeting for test phase two was held on Friday, and the second phase of tests will commence before end of April, and will continue throughout May.”

There are two systems currently being analysed by IFAB; Hawkeye, a camera system which is used in both Cricket and Tennis, and GoalRef, which involves a special ball being used.