Slovenian football referees defend VAR decision in Olimpija-Maribor derby

The Association of Football Referees of Slovenia (ZNSS) has issued a technical clarification regarding a controversial goal during the derby match between Olimpija and Maribor. Following public debate over a potential offside involving Jošt Urbančič, the ZNSS confirmed that the VAR system functioned correctly and the goal was valid.

According to the ZNSS, the offside lines were technically flawless. The blue line was placed on the defender's heel, which was in contact with the ground, while the red line was set at the attacker's shoulder level and vertically projected. Hawk-Eye Innovations, the provider of VAR technology, noted that visual discrepancies often arise because television cameras capture the pitch from an oblique angle rather than a direct line, creating an optical illusion on 2D screens.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw. Luka Zahović scored for Maribor in the 85th minute following an assist from Nejc Viher, marking his eighth career goal against Olimpija.