CONMEBOL Introduces ‘Anti-Wasting Time’ Rule for libertadores, Sudamericana
Starting in 2025, goalkeepers in the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana will have a strict eight-second limit to hold the ball, according to a statement released by CONMEBOL. Referees will signal the final five seconds of this time, and exceeding the limit will result in a corner kick for the opposing team.
New Rule to Combat Time-Wasting
The rule, aimed at speeding up the game, was decided upon during the International Football Association Board (IFAB)’s 139th General Assembly on March 1st, modifying Law 12.2. Previously, goalkeepers were allowed six seconds before a free kick was awarded.
Captains Only: New Protocol for Approaching Referees
In addition to the goalkeeping rule, CONMEBOL is instituting a policy where only team captains are permitted to speak with match officials. This measure will be included in the “observations and accommodations” section of Law 3 and is effective instantly, coinciding with the start of the group stage for continental competitions.
Brazilian League Trials New Rule
The Brazilian football confederation (CBF) had already begun testing the eight-second rule in the opening weekend of Brasileirão 2025, where it triggered debates.
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CONMEBOL Introduces ‘Anti-Wasting Time’ Rule for Libertadores, sudamericana
Starting in 2025, goalkeepers in the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana will have a strict eight-second limit to hold the ball, according to a statement released by CONMEBOL. Referees will signal the final five seconds of this time, and exceeding the limit will result in a corner kick for the opposing team.
New Rule to Combat Time-Wasting
The rule, aimed at speeding up the game, was decided upon during the International Football association board (IFAB)’s 139th General Assembly on March 1st, modifying Law 12.2. Previously, goalkeepers were allowed six seconds before a free kick was awarded.
Captains Only: New Protocol for Approaching Referees
In addition to the goalkeeping rule, CONMEBOL is instituting a policy where only team captains are permitted to speak with match officials.This measure will be included in the “observations and accommodations” section of Law 3 and is effective instantly, coinciding with the start of the group stage for continental competitions.
Brazilian League Trials New Rule
The Brazilian football confederation (CBF) had already begun testing the eight-second rule in the opening weekend of Brasileirão 2025, where it triggered debates.
Q&A: Navigating CONMEBOL’s new Rules
- 1.What exactly is the new goalkeeping rule?
- Goalkeepers in Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana have just eight seconds to control the ball. Referees will signal the last five seconds, and exceeding the time limit results in a corner kick for the opposing team.
- 2. Why is this rule being implemented?
- CONMEBOL aims to speed up the game and reduce time-wasting tactics. The rule is a direct response to concerns about slowing down the flow of play.
- 3. How does this change the rules from before?
- Previously, goalkeepers had six seconds to release the ball before a free kick was awarded. The new rule extends this to eight seconds but with a far more severe penalty for exceeding the time limit—a corner kick instead of a free kick.
- 4. What about the changes regarding captains and referees?
- Only team captains are now allowed to approach and speak with match officials during games.This aims to reduce arguments and improve communication efficiency.
- 5.Has this rule been tested anywhere else?
- Yes, the Brazilian league (Brasileirão) has already tested the eight-second rule, sparking discussions and debates about its impact on the game.
- 6. What happens if a goalkeeper is fouled while holding the ball?
- The timekeeping for the eight-second rule is paused while the goalkeeper receives treatment or deals with the foul. Once play resumes, the clock restarts.
- 7.How will referees enforce the eight-second rule in practice?
- Referees are expected to be vigilant, clearly signaling the start of the count and the five-second warning. the enforcement will likely evolve as referees and goalkeepers adapt.
- 8. does this impact the game’s tactical aspects?
- Absolutely. Teams will need to adapt thier strategies, emphasizing quick ball distribution by the goalkeeper and defensive positioning to prevent corners. Goalkeepers’ ball-handling skills will become even more crucial.
With these new rules set to reshape the game, keep a close eye on the Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana in 2025 and beyond to witness the impact of these changes firsthand!
