The last matches of Group B in the 2026 World Cup have been the first in which the Smart Ball official has been used, a ball with integrated sensors that transmit real‑time data on speed, curve and point of impact.
Players and coaches are already commenting on how this innovation could change tactics and post‑match analysis.
The Smart Ball records more than 150,000 data points per minute and sends them directly to the VAR analysis center.
What data have we seen so far?
Match | Average shot speed (km/h) | Number of touches before the goal | % of shots off target |
|---|---|---|---|
USA vs Argentina | 84 | 7 | 12 % |
Mexico vs Spain | 78 | 9 | 18 % |
Germany vs Japan | 81 | 6 | 15 % |
The data are still preliminary and may vary depending on the stadium and altitude.
Comparative graph of average shot speed
Average shot speed (km/h) – Group B
84
USA vs Argentina
78
Mexico vs Spain
81
Germany vs Japan
USA vs Argentina
Mexico vs Spain
Germany vs Japan
Gallery of Smart Ball images in action
The introduction of the Smart Ball opens an exciting debate: are we facing an improvement that will make the game fairer and more technical, or will it be a technological invasion that depersonalizes the sport?
Leave your comments and debate!
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