The Al Hilm match ball is set to be used for the final eight games at the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup ©Getty Images

FIFA has unveiled a new match ball entitled Al Hilm set to be used from the semi-finals onwards at the World Cup in Qatar.

Four matches remain at Qatar 2022 - Argentina against Croatia and France against Morocco in the last four on Tuesday (December 13) and Wednesday (December 14) respectively, followed by the third-place playoff on Saturday (December 17) and the final on Sunday (December 18).

The Al Rihla match ball has been used at the tournament so far, but is set to be replaced by Al Hilm for the closing stages.

Al Hilm translates to "The Dream", and features the same "connected ball" technology which supports the semi-automated offside decision making.

It has a gold base colour theme, and FIFA said that it is the first ball to be used for the semi-finals and finals made using "only water-based inks and glues".

FIFA's director of football technology and innovation Johannes Holzmüller lauded the technology used by German manufacturer Adidas in the production of the match ball.

The Al Rihla match ball has been used at all Qatar 2022 World Cup matches so far ©Getty Images
The Al Rihla match ball has been used at all Qatar 2022 World Cup matches so far ©Getty Images

"With the development of the connected ball technology, Adidas made it possible that an additional important layer of information is available to the video match officials," he said.

"The data from the ball unlocks new insights for storytelling around the unique moments on the pitch at this World Cup."

Adidas' general manager for football Nick Craggs added: "Al Hilm represents a beacon of light on the power of sport and football to bring the world together.

"Millions will tune in from almost every country around the globe, united by their passion for the game.

"We wish all teams involved in the final stages of the tournament the best of luck as they compete on the largest stage that football has to offer."