Brazil's first semi‑automatic offside technology used in Santos vs Chapecoense match

The 20th‑round Serie A match between Santos and Chapecoense on 26 July 2026 marked the official debut of semi‑automatic offside technology in Brazilian football. Referee Fernando Mendes Filho, a Pará‑state official, was selected to oversee the historic game, highlighting the growing recognition of Paraense referees by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

The new system is intended to speed up and improve the accuracy of offside decisions, reducing reliance on lengthy video‑review processes. Its implementation reflects a broader modernization of officiating in Brazil, supported by the Federação Paraense de Futebol’s ongoing training and qualification programmes, and aligns the country's top league with technologies used in major international competitions.