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Why Did Florian Wirtz's 'Offside' Equaliser for Liverpool at Fulham Stand?
The Semi-Automated Offside Technology confirmed Wirtz's goal despite offside appearances, extending Liverpool's unbeaten run to nine games in a match with late dramatic goals.
- January 4, 2026, Liverpool drew 2-2 at Fulham after Florian Wirtz's equaliser was confirmed by Video Assistant Referee despite replays suggesting offside.
- The Premier League's SAOT system operates with a 5 centimetre tolerance and allows Video Assistant Referee reviewers to adjust the kick point by micro-frames, adding human discretion.
- Harry Wilson put Fulham ahead in the first half, and Florian Wirtz levelled just before the hour before Cody Gakpo briefly gave Liverpool the lead in added time, but Harrison Reed struck a 30-yard stunner in stoppage time to salvage a draw for Fulham.
- Liverpool leave Craven Cottage still unbeaten but concerned after extending their run to nine games, as Arne Slot said the late goal and dropped points left him disappointed and Marco Silva urged belief in the technology despite many thinking it looked offside.
- The decision highlights a competition split because under stricter UEFA Champions League rules with no 5 centimetre tolerance, Wirtz would be offside, reflecting differing judgments across competitions.
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Florian Wirtz meets for the second time in the jersey of Liverpool FC. The goal is one that provides for discussion material. In Germany it would not have been recognized - and it should remain so, says referee boss Knut Kircher.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 25%
C 50%
R 25%
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