The technology behind Japan's national football team in FIFA World Cup 2026 is introduced. Recently, they have achieved a record of 3W-1D-1L. Offside decisions are made using the SAOT (Semi-Automatic Offside Technology) system, which uses specialized optical tracking cameras and ball-embedded sensors to precisely track the position of players and the ball. In this year's tournament, the SAOT system has been improved, and the offside decision flow has changed fundamentally. For obvious offside cases, notifications are now sent directly to the assistant referees on the pitch, bypassing the VAR room. | Date | Opponent | Result | | 2025-11-18 | Bolivia | 3-0 |
Currently, S. Machino and T. Kubo are sidelined due to injury. The technology supporting Japan's national team is expected to continue evolving.
