Real Time Offside Detection using a Single Camera in Soccer
This addresses cost reduction for soccer officiating, but it is incremental as it builds on existing VAR technology.
The paper tackles the problem of high-cost offside detection in soccer by proposing a single-camera system, achieving a reduction in equipment expenses compared to the 10-30 cameras used in current VAR setups.
Technological advancements in soccer have surged over the past decade, transforming aspects of the sport. Unlike binary rules, many soccer regulations, such as the "Offside Rule," rely on subjective interpretation rather than straightforward True or False criteria. The on-field referee holds ultimate authority in adjudicating these nuanced decisions. A significant breakthrough in soccer officiating is the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, leveraging a network of 20-30 cameras within stadiums to minimize human errors. VAR's operational scope typically encompasses 10-30 cameras, ensuring high decision accuracy but at a substantial cost. This report proposes an innovative approach to offside detection using a single camera, such as the broadcasting camera, to mitigate expenses associated with sophisticated technological setups.