Tired of seeing goalkeepers convulsing and collapsing? Or would you rather watch reruns of the actual Royal Rumble than the cheap imitations given away for free after every corner kick?
We might change something related to VAR. After all, it seems like not a week goes by without some kind of discussion about whether decisions were made or not made, and how long it took to reach the right (or wrong) outcome.
Now, ahead of the World Cup starting next week, there are some big changes to the laws of the game.
These changes are expected to reduce the constant grappling before set pieces. And no more tactical timeouts brought about by a “hit” goalie.
Some changes may not be very popular. For example, VAR’s scope could be strengthened to allow it to intervene for a second yellow card. There are also plenty of hydration breaks.
Stay up-to-date on the World Cup with the 9 new rules you need to know this summer.
VAR is used to stop grappling and blocking before corner kicks and free kicks. However, only the attacking team is penalized. Players who cover their mouths while talking to opponents in an “aggressive manner” may be sent off. Think Benfica’s Gianluca Pellestri versus Vinicius Jr. A player or coach will automatically be given a red card if they leave the field in protest of the referee’s decision. This follows some crazy scenes at the Africa Cup of Nations.
A crackdown on corner wrestling will be enforced at the World Cup (Image: Getty)
5 seconds for a throw-in, otherwise it will be given to the opponent. 5 seconds for a goal kick or corner kick. Otherwise it will be given to the other person. Players must leave the field within 10 seconds of being substituted unless they are injured. If a rule is violated, the substitute must wait until the next stoppage of play. Players who are sent off for treatment will not be allowed to re-enter the pitch for one minute. This is designed to crack down on time wasters. An exception is if the keeper is injured or has a concussion. VAR can now intervene for a second yellow card if a yellow card is incorrectly identified as a red card or a corner kick is incorrectly awarded. There will be a three-minute hydration break at the midway point of each half of each game.
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