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VAR technology leads to more penalties and free kicks in Russia
WorldCup
Hu Shichen

2018-06-20 17:14 GMT+8

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All of 32 teams have played their opener at Russia World Cup after last night, while a number of World Cup records are at risk, thanks to a dizzying array of penalties, own goals, and direct free kicks sailing into the net.

Those numbers are playing a huge role in some of the unexpected early results at the tournament -- and one of the biggest factors for this is the use of Video Assistant Referees in the tournament for the first time ever.

VAR is driving up the numbers, as officials can now review the evidence if they are not sure about a call, and make corrections. The technology has been used in 5 games so far.

Antoine Griezmann of France scores a penalty during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group C match between France and Australia at Kazan Arena on June 16, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. /VCG Photo

The first use of VAR in World Cup history took place last Saturday, when France beat Australia 2-1. Antoine Griezmann was brought down by Josh Risdon, and the referee initially waved off appeals for a penalty by Les Bleus.

But after his historic maiden consultation with VAR, the official pointed to the spot, and Griezmann put the French in front. After the Aussies leveled, Paul Pogba scored the winner for France, but only following another trip to the pitchside monitor to confirm the goal. 

Technology also led to the penalty for Andreas Granqvist that gave Sweden a 1-0 victory over Republic of Korea, as well as Mohamed Salah's spot kick that broke up the clean sheet, in Russia's 3-1 win against Egypt.

Sports Scene Photo

In addition, 10 penalties were called in the first 16 games, with eight of the 10 spot kicks being converted. Only 13 penalties were awarded for the whole tournament, four years ago in Brazil.

Meanwhile, there have also been 5 own goals scored. The record for an entire World Cup is just 6, which was the 1998 edition in France. There were only five own goals in Brazil in 2014.

And three direct free kicks have found the net so far in Russia, including a memorable effort by Cristiano Ronaldo. Four years ago, this only happened three times in the entire competition.

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