For the first time in English domestic football, semi-automated offside technology will be introduced during the FA Cup’s fifth round.
On Thursday, the Football Association announced that this technology will be deployed in the seven matches being held at Premier League venues.
Premier League clubs had initially approved the use of the technology for the 2024-25 season back in April, with plans to roll it out in October 2024.
However, its implementation was postponed to allow for additional testing, which has only ramped up pressure on officials this season.
The FA said: “Following successful live operation in the Emirates FA Cup, the Premier League will look to implement the system later this season.
“Semi-Automated Offside Technology will provide more efficient placement of the virtual offside line, based on optical player tracking, and produce virtual graphics to ensure an enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters.
🚨🏴 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 | Semi-automated offside will now be introduced to English football. 📺
Will be used in the FA Cup 5th round and also in the Premier League sometime later in the season. pic.twitter.com/HEEhpNNwGv
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) February 13, 2025
“The operation of Semi-Automated Offside Technology does not change the accuracy of the decision making but enhances the speed and efficiency of the process.”
UEFA first adopted semi-automated offside technology in the Champions League at the beginning of the 2022-2023 season.
In addition to this, Video Assistant Referees (VAR) will be in place for all eight FA Cup fifth-round fixtures, including the game at Championship side Preston, where referees will provide in-stadium VAR announcements.
The fifth-round matches are set to take place on the weekend of Saturday, 1 March.
Giants Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham have all been knocked out, while holders Manchester United, rivals Manchester City, Newcastle and Aston Villa all remain in the competition.