The success of German software company GoalControl's cameras-and-software system, which will be used to judge goal-line decisions at this summer’s Confederations Cup in Brazil and next year’s World Cup, is crucial in helping football "catch up to other sports in its use of technology," according to Sam Borden of the N.Y. TIMES. That is why GoalControl execs see this as "only the beginning." The organization at the heart of int'l football’s technological advancement is "located in a generic two-story building" just off the A4 highway in Würselen, Germany. The modest setting "is appropriate for a company that did not officially exist until late last year." However, "the expectations for GoalControl are significant." The company's system could also be used to assist in ridding football of "its other most-prevalent flash point" -- the incorrect judging of football’s offside rule. GoalControl Managing Dir Dirk Broichhausen said, "Technically, yes, offside is absolutely possible -- it would just take a few more cameras in the stadium. This is the direction the sport is going. We are hoping to be at the start of something here." GoalControl execs are also "realistic about progress" in a sport that has been "notoriously slow to embrace changes." The choice of GoalControl "was surprising to many in the industry" who expected that Hawk-Eye, the company widely known for providing tennis' instant replay technology, would be awarded the football contract. However, GoalControl has roots in a group "known worldwide for its precision, too." Its corporate ancestor is Pixargus, "which uses cameras and software to handle quality control on the production lines making certain car parts and medical devices" (N.Y. TIMES, 4/19).
