World Cup Chisme: FIFA Feeling Pressure to Adopt Instant Replay

By Sharmaine Jones

After a series of blown calls in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, FIFA may be feeling the pressure to introduce instant replay. Its one thing to blow a call during preliminary rounds, as was done to the U.S. against Slovenia earlier in the tournament, but its a lot more significant when done in the knock-out Round of 16!

At least FIFA president Sepp Blatter is acknowledging it this time. According to NBC Sports, he recently apologized to England and Mexico for the latest blunders. “Naturally we deplore when you see the evidence of refereeing mistakes,” Blatter said in an apology to England and Mexico team officials at Sunday's matches. "The English said 'thank you.' The Mexicans, they just go with the head," Blatter said, indicating that they nodded. "I understand that they are not happy. It was not a five-star game for refereeing."

Blatter was referring to England's match against Germany, where England was denied a goal by midfielder Frank Lampard that clearly crossed the line by a foot and would have tied the score 2-2 at the half.

England went on to lose the match 4-1 but the goal that was called off could have significantly altered the momentum and changed the match. England is now eliminated from the tournament as Germany moves on to face Argentina in the next round (July 3).

Speaking of Argentina, they were also the benefactors of a blown call by referees. In their match against Mexico – which they won 3-1 – Argentinian player Carlos Tevez was offside when he headed in a pass from Lionel Messi to take the lead. Referee Roberto Rosetti awarded the goal after consulting with his linesman. The loss eliminates Mexico from the tournament.

In a sport where a single goal — legitimate or not — can significantly alter the destiny of a team, and possibly the course of the entire tournament, instant replay should be a given. "Naturally we will take on board again the discussion about technology. Something has to be changed," Blatter said, while adding that the system could not be changed midway through the World Cup.

Come on FIFA, lets make it happen!

In less controversial fashion, Netherlands defeated Slovakia 2-1 and Brazil shut out Chile 3-0 to move on to the next round. Netherlands is now scheduled to play Brazil in Port Elizabeth on July 2.

Uruguay defeated Korea Republic 2-1 and the United States lost a heart breaking match in extra time to Ghana 1-2.

Ghana, the last African team in the tournament, will play Uruguay on July 2 in the next round. Despite the loss, celebrities took to Twitter to show support and gratitude towards the US team.

Ashton Kutcher tweeted, “It's always fun to dream. Thank u USA soccer for the thrills!” “Chuck” star Zachary Levi had this to tweet: “So proud of our US Soccer team. Don't worry boys, we'll get 'em next year...I mean...in 4 years...wow...this sucks.”

Paula Abdul followed the game very closely with numerous tweets. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! SO EXCITED FOR THAT GOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLLLL!!! #World Cup #USA," she tweeted after Landon Donovan scored on a penalty kick to even the match at 1-1.

When it was all said and done, Abdul offered words of encouragement: "Congrats #GHA ...Team #USA, I salute you. You are stunning examples of the strength, fire & passion of the game. You're all heart xoP."

Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 and will advance to battle Paraguay, who defeated Japan in a 5-3 penalty shootout win after a 0-0 draw.

The Quarterfinals are set! Congratulations to the teams making it this far and good luck to the teams that advanced!

Should FIFA adopt instant replay? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3!

Tags 2010 World Cup, Ashton Kutcher, FIFA, instant replay, Paula Abdul, Soccer, World Cup