World Cup news: Debate rages after controversial offside ruins Croatia's comeback vs. Portugal

World Cup controversy intensified after a disputed offside call ended Croatia’s comeback against Portugal. In the Round of 32 match on Thursday, Croatia scored a late goal that would have forced extra time, but the strike was ruled offside following a review. Portugal ultimately held on for a 2-1 victory, with the decision triggering widespread debate. The ruling hinged on adidas’ Trionda match ball used at the 2026 World Cup, which incorporates a Connected Ball Technology sensor that records motion 500 times per second. FIFA said the sensor data showed Igor Matanovic made contact with the ball during the buildup, and because he was in an offside position, the faint touch was enough to disallow the goal. The moment was displayed via a heartbeat-style graphic, and Matanovic said he barely felt the touch.