Robots Compete in Spectacular Soccer Match in Beijing

On June 28 in Beijing, a soccer match was held featuring humanoid robots, with the team named Vulcan emerging victorious with a score of 5-3.

The robots played two halves, each lasting 10 minutes, and their movements were guided by built-in algorithms. Each mechanical player utilized cameras and sensors to detect the ball, the field, and their opponents, making real-time decisions autonomously, without human intervention.

The humanoids were dressed in black and purple jerseys. Their movements appeared clumsy, occasionally leading to tumbles.

After every goal scored, the robots raised their fists in celebration. Scoring was relatively easy, as the goalkeepers struggled with their responsibilities.

China is investing heavily in the advancement of robotics. According to data from Morgan Stanley, this market is valued at $47 billion, accounting for 40% of the global total. It is projected to grow at a rate of 23% per year, reaching $108 billion by 2028.

Analysts from the bank believe, «China not only represents the largest market but may also become a global hub for innovation, driving cost efficiency and the development of the next generation of robotics.»

The mechanical soccer players employed reinforcement learning techniques to make real-time decisions regarding passing, dribbling, shooting, or anticipating their teammates’ actions.

The Saturday match served as a preview for the World Humanoid Robot Games, which China is set to host from August 15-17 in Beijing. This event will feature 11 sports competitions, including gymnastics, athletics, and soccer.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that in June, 432 robotic legs were used to relocate a complex of historical buildings weighing 7,500 tons back to their original site.

In April, 21 humanoid robots participated in a half-marathon in Beijing alongside human runners.