FIFA panel to decide on hijab in July BAGSHOT, England — Two goal-line technology systems will go into a final round of testing ahead of a vote in July that could see one of them used at the 2014 World Cup. The International Football Association Board, which decides the rules for the sport, Saturday assessed the test results from eight systems that could be used to help rule on disputed goals, but only Hawk-Eye and GoalRef received “very positive” scores. English Football Association general secretary Alex Horne says the two remaining systems will now be “tested to destruction” before a final decision on whether one can be implemented during games. “We are very comfortable the technology is proving itself,” Horne said. Hawk-Eye is a camera-based system successfully deployed in tennis, while GoalRef uses a magnetic field with a special ball. But even if one of the systems is approved in July in Kiev, it will be too late for referees to be given high-tech aids in time for the new season in August. FIFA President Sepp Blatter ended his long-standing opposition to the high-tech aids after England midfielder Frank Lampard's “ghost goal” against Germany at the 2010 World Cup, when his shot bounced down off the crossbar beyond the goal line but was not counted. FIFA also deferred a final decision on whether Muslim women can play in a headscarf, or hijab, until July. FIFA Vice President Prince Ali of Jordan gave a presentation to show how headscarves can be held in place by safe Velcro fasteners. “I am delighted to say in principle the IFAB is entirely in favor of moving forward with the introduction of headscarves ... subject to the fact the headscarves themselves must be health and safety compliant,” Horne said. IFAB is made up of the four British associations and four FIFA delegates. In other decisions, proposals to introduce a fourth substitute in extra-time in Cup matches and limiting the severity of the triple sanction punishment on goal-scoring opportunities, by which an offender can concede a penalty, receive a red card and then a suspension, were withdraw. FIFA blasts Brazil FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke made a scathing attack on Brazil's preparations for the 2014 World Cup Friday, saying “not a lot is moving” and organizers needed “a kick up the backside”. Valcke, who has continually raised concerns about the tournament, said time was running out and there was no “Plan B” in place.
