The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has reaffirmed the validity of the equalizer scored by England against Norway in their quarter-final match of the 2026 World Cup, denying reports that the ball touched the spider cam cable during the attack.

FIFA, in statements reported by German site Sportschau, explained that a review of the footage clearly showed no contact between the ball and the camera cable, noting that the spider cam recorded no movement or vibration indicating a collision.

No Defect in the Ball

The international federation also denied rumors about a signal interruption from the electronic chip inside the ball during its flight, confirming that it continued transmitting data normally throughout the play.

FIFA pointed out that the electronic sensor inside the ball did not detect any vibration or abnormal change in its trajectory, which supports the referee's decision to award the goal.

Norwegian Protest

Ståle Solbakken, head coach of Norway, stated after the match that the ball hit one of the cables suspended above the pitch after a goal kick, which in his opinion changed its direction before reaching England player Anthony Gordon, starting the attack that ended with Jude Bellingham's goal.

Solbakken said: 'The ball fell straight from the sky, so I think it changed direction.'

Official Position

Despite the Norwegian protest, the international federation maintained its position, confirming that all technical data and video footage prove there was no violation, and that England's goal was legal, allowing the 'Three Lions' to continue their journey to the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup.