The SAOT system will complement the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system at all seven matches of the ACL Elite Finals Jeddah 2025, which will take place between April 25 and May 3 as the Continent’s top eight men’s teams vie for the ultimate club prize.

 

Match officials will be able to enhance their decision-making process with SAOT, which utilises specialised cameras that are strategically placed to track the exact position of the ball and players on the field of play. As such, the position of the limbs, as well as all the other body parts that are relevant for offside decisions, can be established in a swiftly and precise manner.

The final decision will require validation from the VAR before the on-field referee is informed, and the final decision on the field of play will always be made by the referee. A 3D animation of the decision will be displayed in stadiums and also be provided to TV broadcasters, which ensures transparent insight for fans.

 

The AFC’s determination to embrace the latest technological advancements further  underlines its commitment towards improving accuracy and integrity of decision-making by its match officials, as well as remaining at the forefront of world refereeing.