The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology made history at FIFA World Cup 2018 in a Group C match between France and Australia, on Saturday. The technology was used for the first time in World Cup history to overturn an appeal, and subsequently award a Penalty. It was advantage France as they converted the penalty and moved ahead of the Aussies.

France’s forward, Antoine Griezmann, was felled by an Australian defender in the penalty area; however, the referee signalled to continue to match-play, ignoring the gross foul committed. However, soon after, the referee stopped the gameplay immediately signalling the usage of VAR technology.

The referee, Andres Cunha, went to the Referee Review Area (RRA) and with the help of the replays he overturned the decision and awarded a penalty to France. Griezmann took advantage of it and scored the first goal of the match that was evenly contested till that point of time.

Soon after, the Australian side scored a goal and levelled the score. However, it was the brilliance of Paul Pogba that saw the French side score another goal in the match and move a step ahead of their opponents. The match ended with the scoreline reading 2-1 in France’s favour. FIFA Unveils VAR Operations Room Ahead of 2018 World Cup.

The VAR technology was first used in a Group B match between Portugal and Spain on June 15. Spain’s first goal scored by Diego Costa was reviewed by the match referee at the behest of protesting Portuguese players. However, the referee’s decision was upheld and the goal was counted. The match, eventually, ended with a scoreline reading 3-3. FIFA World Cup 2018 Countdown, 6 Days to Go: Watch Informative Video About VAR, Goal-line Technology & Other Hidden Tech to be Used at Russia WC.

Nonetheless, in the match between France and Australia, it was the very first time that the VAR technology was used to overturn a decision and subsequently a penalty being awarded, in the World Cup history. The action at FIFA World Cup 2018 has set rolling and with the use of technology, the World Cup in Russia is only going to be more exciting (and heartbreaking) for the fans!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 16, 2018 06:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).