So far, this year’s experiment with goal line technology has proven to be quite accurate indeed with no controversies surrounding the system used by the English Premier League, which is the Hawk-Eye system. However, the margin of error at the moment is three centimetres, and according to the German Bundesliga, that’s too large of a margin for them so they aren’t using it.

In fact, there aren’t many leagues at all trying out the goal line technology systems. Dutch football said they’ll give it a go for a few games this season though. So, the IFAB, (International Football Association Board) the people who come up with the rules in football, have said that starting next year the systems need to have more accurate requirements. They believe if the accuracy standards are set higher, then more leagues will get on the bandwagon and start using goal line technology.

So, according to the IFAB, starting in 2014 the margin of error in any system can be no more than 1.5 centimeters. This means both Hawk-Eye, which uses numerous cameras, and the GoalRef system preferred by FIFA and utilizes magnetic fields, will likely have to go through more testing to make sure the margin of error is lowered.