FIFA to Re-Examine Video Replays After World Cup Referee Mistakes

28 June 2010

Germany's goalkeeper Manuel Neuer eyes the ball shot by England player Frank Lampard before the goal was disallowed during the 2010 World Cup round of 16 soccer match, 27 Jun 2010

The head of football's world governing body, FIFA's Sepp Blatter, says the sport's rule makers will discuss video replays when they meet next month. He spoke after two missed calls by referees contributed to the elimination of England and Mexico from the World Cup in South Africa.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter says any referee mistakes are deplorable and the board of the International Football Association that makes the laws of the game will re-consider the use of video replay technology.

"Concerning the International Football Association Board, naturally they will take on again the discussion on technology," said Blatter. "They will have a first opportunity when the business meeting of the Board of July is meeting in Wales."

But Blatter said the current system could not be changed during the World Cup, which is currently approaching the quarterfinals in South Africa.

Blatter witnessed both officiating mistakes Sunday during the round-of-16 matches between England and Germany and between Argentina and Mexico.

In the first match, England's Frank Lampard would have tied the score at 2-all before half-time, but officials did not see his shot bounce across the goal line and rebound out after hitting under the crossbar. The score remained 2-1 and Germany went on to win 4-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.