The recent amendment to Law 12.2 is a significant change for goalkeepers and referees alike. The new rule states that goalkeepers now have eight seconds to release the ball, with a visual five-second countdown aiding referees in their decision-making. This update aims to address the issue of goalkeepers holding onto the ball for extended periods, with a trial period showing positive results.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB), at its 139th Annual General Meeting hosted by the Irish FA, unanimously agreed to the change, which will come into force next season. If a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds, a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team, as stated by IFAB.
In addition to this alteration, IFAB has also introduced a new law regarding interactions between players and referees. This law states that only team captains are permitted to approach the referee, a rule that was implemented in the Premier League and enforced at Euro 2024. IFAB believes that this change will foster higher levels of fairness and mutual respect between captains and referees, reducing instances of verbal and physical dissent.
Another tweak to the laws of the game concerns drop balls. From next season, if play is stopped and the ball is outside the penalty area, the drop ball will be awarded to the team that had or would have gained possession, provided this is clear to the referee. If it is not clear, the team that last touched the ball will be awarded the drop ball at the position where play was stopped.
These rule changes will be implemented at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in June, alongside an expanded trial of referees wearing body cameras. IFAB highlighted the positive impact of body cameras on player behavior, citing successful use at the grassroots level in England.
Comprised of the four British football associations and FIFA, representing 207 national associations, IFAB’s decisions carry significant weight in shaping the future of the beautiful game.
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Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated Inter Miami debut against Sporting Kansas City has been postponed due to inclement weather. The North American football governing body, CONCACAF, announced on Monday that the match had to be called off due to heavy snowfall and adverse conditions. This delay will undoubtedly disappoint football enthusiasts worldwide, eager to witness the football legend’s first appearance for his new club.
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The Saudi Star Signs On: Ronaldo Extends Deal with Al Nassr, Says Source.
The Portuguese football icon, Cristiano Ronaldo, has agreed to extend his contract with Al Nassr, the Saudi club confirmed to AFP on Monday. This new deal will see the superstar forward remain with the club until June 2026, an additional year to his initial contract.
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LONDON — Manchester City staged a stunning comeback against Club Brugge, winning 3-1 to seal their spot in the Champions League playoffs. They weren’t alone in their triumph, as heavyweights Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain all secured victories to advance. AC Milan and Juventus also booked their places in the next round, despite suffering defeats on Wednesday night.
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DORTMUND, Germany — In a thrilling encounter, Bayer Leverkusen edged past Borussia Dortmund 3-2, thanks to a brace from the in-form Patrik Schick. With this sixth consecutive league victory, Leverkusen move within a whisker of leaders Bayern Munich, trailing by just a single point.
