New La Liga ball technology responsible for Real Madrid equaliser being ruled out vs Real Betis

New La Liga ball technology responsible for Real Madrid equaliser being ruled out vs Real Betis Real Madrid came within centimetres of rescuing themselves against Real Betis, only for one of La Liga ’s newest technological additions to intervene. Los Blancos had hammered away at Betis’ goal last night, only for the gatekeeper, Alvaro Valles , to shut the door and let nothing through. It took something absolutely spectacular to beat Valles last night, with Carlos Espi scoring an overhead kick that was eventually ruled out. According to Mundo Deportivo , the decision was assisted by the new sensor inside La Liga ’s match ball. The technology allowed VAR to establish the precise moment the ball was played. Using that, they determined that Madrid’s summer signing was marginally offside at the beginning of the attacking sequence that resulted in the goal. Espi denied dramatic equaliser The moment arrived after Espi entered the match in the 87th minute with Madrid chasing a 1-0 deficit. Carlos Espi thought he had salvaged a point for Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) The young striker appeared to make an immediate impact with an outstanding overhead kick that found the net and seemingly brought Madrid level. Celebrations followed, but referee Alejandro Hernandez Hernandez was instructed not to restart the match while VAR reviewed the build-up. The check eventually identified Espi in an illegal offside position, meaning the goal could not stand. It was a painful decision for Madrid, particularly because the infringement occurred at the start of the move rather than during Espi’s spectacular finish. How the new technology works The sensorised ball is one of La Liga ’s major technological additions this season and works alongside semi-automated offside technology. Its importance comes from identifying the exact instant a player makes contact with the ball. For extremely tight offside decisions, determining that precise frame can be crucial. The technology was also involved earlier in the match. Alvaro Valles ensured Real Madrid endured a difficult night at the Villamarin. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) Madrid were initially awarded a corner after Dean Huijsen’s effort appeared to have been touched by the Betis goalkeeper, but the sensor and images established that the ball had instead struck the crossbar. The decision was changed and a goal kick was awarded. For Madrid, the technological decision going against them was the final blow on an already frustrating night. Despite creating numerous chances, Betis produced a defensive performance to remember and managed to protect their 1-0 lead. In the end, it was one of those games that Jose Mourinho would like to forget quickly, and it remains to be seen whether Madrid can return to winning ways against Inter Milan in the Champions League.