Expert Questions FIFA's Evidence in 'Cable-Gate' Controversy

Doubts are being cast on FIFA's evidence concerning the "cable-gate" incident during the Norway vs. England match, with a Danish expert suggesting that FIFA's own data is inconclusive. The controversy centers on whether the ball touched a camera cable during goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland's clearance just before England scored their equalizing goal.

Thomas Bull Andersen, a lecturer at Aarhus University specializing in football and biomechanics, stated that FIFA's presented graph, intended to prove the ball did not make contact with the cable, is not definitive. FIFA, in response to a BBC 3D graphic that appeared to show a deflection, claimed their data, derived from a chip inside the ball, showed no impact. However, Andersen argues that FIFA's own evidence does not provide a clear answer.

This dispute holds significant weight because, according to IFAB rules, if the ball had touched the cable, the game should have been restarted with a drop-ball. Such a restart would have nullified England's first goal, potentially changing the course of the match, which Norway ultimately lost 1-2. Both Norwegian players and manager Ståle Solbakken believed there was contact, and Nyland immediately appealed to the referee after the play.

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It is not proof that it is not hit.