ROME: FIFA president Sepp Blatter claims goal-line technology is coming and it is only a matter of time before it is introduced.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the under-fire world football supremo vowed to bring technology into the game, just as it is used in many other sports, notably rugby and cricket.
“Definitely. We’re experimenting with technology on the phantom goal, the International Board will decide on it in March,” he said.
“We’re for it, the important thing is that the system is immediate, reliable and uncomplicated.
“We’ll do it. FIFA cannot accept a repeat of what happened in South Africa when a ball was 70cm over the line and was ruled out.”
That was a reference to Frank Lampard’s strike against Germany in the last 16 that clearly crossed the line but was not given.
Had the goal stood, England would have drawn level with the Germans at 2-2 but instead went on to lose 4-1.
However, Blatter is still wary of over-complicating things.
“Football is popular because it’s always been this way, even children know the rules,” he said.
“Imagine if we did like hockey or volleyball which change every year.”
Blatter had said Monday that FIFA is studying “two good systems”, one of which should be in place in time for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
The Swiss was recently involved in a racism storm related to comments he made about players who are the victims of racial abuse.
He said they should just shake hands with their abusers and forget any remarks made on the field of play.
But Blatter defended his record on the race issue.
“It’s bad faith. I brought the World Cup to South Africa with millions of whites and blacks side by side in the streets and in the stands,” he said.
“All I said is that there are two types of wrongful behaviour on the pitch, one physical and one verbal but after 90 minutes it’s all over.
“What has racism got to do with it? I’ve had support from African players and officials but I’m sad.”
Blatter also defended his organisation despite a multitude of recent corruption scandals.
“People only talk about scandals and corruption and don’t remember FIFA’s social missions,” he said.
“The help we give to those in need, in Pakistan, Fukushima, Somalia and Haiti.” (Agencies)