What is SAOT which will be introduced tonight for the first time in FA Cup history?

The FA Cup is the oldest football competition, with the opening games played in 1872. Its rich history is about to reach another milestone on Friday, as the artificial intelligence-based semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) will be presented on Friday night in the FA Cup last-16 tie between Aston Villa and Cardiff.

But what is that new technology, how does it work, and is it really any better?

The developers say that it creates a "more efficient placement of the virtual offside line" by taking the mapping of the relevant players out of the hands of the VAR and into the control of technology. Rather than a referee placing lines onto a 2D TV screen, SAOT will plot the players in 3D.

It will also bring an "enhanced in-stadium and broadcast experience for supporters."

This means that now fans will effectively be moved almost in line with the assistant referee to show an offside.

The animation will also be posted on the @PLMatchCentre X account.

The exact point on the attacker which is deemed offside is highlighted, and a simulation will create a "wall" indicating the offside line. If a player is offside, the relevant part of the body will break through that "wall."

FA CUP - ROUND OF 16

Friday

23.00: (1.20) Aston Villa (6.75) Cardiff (14.0)

Saturday

15.15: (1.35) Crystal Palace (4.80) Millwall (10.0)

15.15: (3.60) Preston (3.15) Burnley (2.20)

18.00: (1.80) Bournemouth (3.60) Wolverhampton (4.60)

20.45: (1.10) Man.City (11.0) Plymouth (18.0)

Sunday

16.45: (2.15) Newcastle (3.50) Brighton (3.30)

19.30: (2.35) Man.Utd. (3.40) Fulham (3.00)

Monday

22.30: (1.75) Nott.Forest (3.60) Ipswich (4.90)

***odds are subject to change***