Semi-automated offside debuts in Brasileirão during Santos v Chapecoense | OneFootball

Semi-automated offside made its Brasileirão debut on Saturday at Vila Belmiro, confirming Marcinho’s opener for Chapecoense against Santos in the 20th round.

According to Globo.com, the system assessed Giovanni Augusto’s position on receiving the pass before he set up the goal, which was ruled onside and awarded five minutes into the second half.

The CBF opted to introduce the technology during the Série A pause for the 2026 World Cup.

It is available at all Série A club stadiums, and Palmeiras have also contracted it for Arena Barueri when Nubank Parque hosts shows.

The setup uses about 30 mobile phones that require power and an internet connection.

Genius supplies the system, which also operates in the Premier League, the Mexican league and in Belgium, with installations in 65 stadiums worldwide.

Its use cuts the time needed for offside decisions by 33%, based on operations in those three leagues.

If SAOT does not work, coaches, captains and the crowd are informed, then officials revert to manual VAR lines used until round 19.

The league had been due to start with the tool, but activation was delayed to allow visits to every stadium. Devices record matches in 4K at 100 frames per second, creating a digital replica.

Source: Globo.com