Sweden's Svanberg scores after VAR off‑side check in 5‑1 World Cup win over Tunisia

Sweden's midfielder Mattias Svanberg entered the World Cup group match against Tunisia as a substitute and, within 18 seconds, netted the team's fourth goal in a 5‑1 victory. The goal was initially flagged off‑side, but video‑assistant referee officials used ball‑sensor technology—similar to cricket's Snicko system—to confirm a faint touch by Alexander Isak, overturning the decision and allowing the goal to stand.

The match featured Adidas' Trionda ball equipped with a 500 Hz inertial measurement unit and AI‑driven position data, enabling real‑time off‑side analysis. Sweden topped their group and will face the Netherlands in their next game, while Tunisia, already eliminated, prepares for a final group fixture against Japan.