Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has criticised FIFA's introduction of a touchline video assistant referee (VAR) technology for the Club World Cup -- saying that he does not like the system and hopes it is not rolled out any further.
The first use of the technology in an official FIFA game came during Wednesday's first semifinal, when Kashima Antlers beat Atletico Nacional 3-0. The Japanese side's opening goal was a penalty awarded after referee Viktor Kassai had gone to the side of the pitch to see whether a foul had been committed, with the Colombian outfit debating the decision and claiming an offside.
The technology was used towards the end of Madrid's 2-0 victory over Club America in Thursday's second semifinal, creating confusion after Cristiano Ronaldo scored the second goal, which was at first disallowed by Paraguayan referee Enrique Caceres.
Caceres checked to see if Ronaldo's goal had been offside or not, with play appearing to have restarted but then being called back, as the replay was viewed using the new technology.
Modric, who was named man of the match by the official sponsors, told a news conference afterwards that he did not like the use of technology in this way and hoped it would not be rolled out any further.
"I don't know what to say," the Croatia international said. "It is something new. To be honest, I don't like it. It creates a lot of confusion.
"We had a meeting with referees the other day. I did not listen too much as I don't expect it continue. For me it is not what football is about. We will see what happens. The first sensation for me is not good."
90' + 3' ¡GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL de @Cristiano!#RMCWC #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/aFSR4EEA1Z
- Real Madrid C. F. (@realmadrid) December 15, 2016
Less controversially, Modric said he was happy with the result and the performance, particularly given the squad had only arrived in Japan after a long flight on Monday morning.
"It is a very important win for us, we are happy with the result, and our play," Modric said. "We were a bit weak in the first 25 minutes, which was normal after the long journey.
"But when we picked up our tempo we played well, made many chances, and scored two goals. Now the most important thing is we are in another final."