If the goalkeeper holds the ball for more than 8 seconds, the referee will award a corner kick to the opposing team.
How will referees monitor eight seconds?
Referees will use a visual five-second countdown timer to monitor the eight-second limit for goalkeepers holding the ball, as approved by IFAB.
This timer will assist on-field officials in making consistent decisions, ensuring goalkeepers release the ball within the new time frame to avoid awarding a corner kick to the opposition.
The rule change, effective from the 2025/26 season, builds on trials conducted in over 400 games, including Premier League 2, to reduce time-wasting by goalkeepers.
What enforcement challenges arise?
Referees will need to consistently monitor and judge the exact moment a goalkeeper exceeds the eight-second limit, which could lead to subjective interpretations and potential disputes during matches.
The introduction of a visual five-second countdown timer for referees may face implementation challenges, such as ensuring all officials are trained to use it effectively and consistently across different competitions.
The rule change, trialed in over 400 games including Premier League 2, aims to reduce time-wasting, but its enforcement might vary due to differing refereeing styles and the pressure of high-stakes matches.
Goalkeepers may attempt to exploit gray areas, such as briefly releasing and regaining control of the ball, creating confusion about whether the eight-second limit has been breached.
The shift from an indirect free kick to a corner kick as a penalty could increase the stakes, potentially leading to more contentious decisions and appeals if referees misjudge the timing or application of the rule.
