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Sweden kicked off their campaign in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 on an aggressive note, as they secured a stunning 5-1 win over Tunisia on Monday, June 15 at the Estadio Monterrey in Mexico. However, a rare occasion was observed in the game, as cricket-style technology helped decide the fourth goal in the 5-1 win.
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Crossover between cricket and football
Sweden were cruising in their Group F opener when a surprising moment stole the spotlight. Substitute player Mattias Svanberg seemed to make an instant impact after coming off the bench, scoring a close rang goal after a well-executed set-piece work. However, the flags went up, ruling the goal offside.
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Sweden's players and coaching staff complained regarding the decision, saying that Alexander Isak made a slight contact with the ball before it reached Svanberg. According to them, that touch meant Svanberg was no longer offside and the goal should have been allowed.
Snicko technology in football
After hearing all the complaints, the VAR team used a technology usually seen in cricket. The "Snicko" system, which can detect slightest touches made on the ball through audio and visual signals, was used to confirm if Isak had any contact during the move.
In a rare crossover of technology, the Snicko proved a clear spike when the ball went past Isak's boot. The evidence confirmed that he made a slight touch on the ball, forcing the officials to change their decision and award the goal.
Eventually, the goal was awarded, allowing Svanberg to celebrate once again. The time the strike counted, becoming Sweden's fourth goal of the game as they went on to claim a dominating 5-1 win over Tunisia.
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