New Delhi: Cricket fans are used to seeing the popular ‘Snicko’ technology that helps umpires determine if a batsman has edged the ball. But on Monday, similar technology appeared during the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Sweden and Tunisia at the Stadio Monterrey.While Sweden’s dominant 5-1 victory grabbed the headlines, it was a lengthy video review featuring substitute Mattias Svanberg’s goal that grabbed the attention of fans around the world. The incident occurred in the 84th minute when Swanberg found the back of the net just 18 seconds after coming on as a substitute. However, the assistant referee flagged the goal for offside, disallowing it.The decision sparked protests from the Swedish bench, with players and staff arguing that the ball had touched Alexander Isak before reaching Svanberg.To validate the sequence, officials turned to ball-contact technology that closely resembles cricket’s sneko. The system showed a clear spike as the ball passed by Ask, confirming a touch and changing the interpretation of the play.After a review, the goal was awarded, much to the delight of the Swedish players and supporters.Sweden won 5-1. FIFA World Cup 2026 opener. Yasin Ayari scored two goals, while Viktor Guekris, Alexander Isak and Swanberg scored one each.Tunisia had a rough start to the tournament. Head coach Sabri Lamuchi expressed disappointment after the match.“It’s a tough loss. It hurts. It’s really hard to start a match with that loss,” Lamoche said, according to Reuters.He also pointed to his team’s mistakes on the field, adding: “We made too many mistakes.”The defeat leaves Tunisia under pressure ahead of their next match against Japan, while Sweden will look to build on their strong start when they take on the Netherlands on June 20.
