In today's football, one of the main problems that is worrying fans of the most beautiful game in the world is the slow pace of matches. In addition to technology and the VAR system, which seems to have divided public opinion in two, regarding their function and effectiveness in today's football world, the numerous delays, the increase in the number of substitutions, or the hesitation to restart the game at standard kicks, continue to be discussed at the tables of the highest football institution.

The latest was held in London, as the IFAB (International Football Association Board) held a meeting during which the body focused on a series of measures to further improve the pace of matches and reduce match interruptions.

Given the positive effect that the new rule that prohibits goalkeepers from holding the ball in their hands for too long has had globally, the IFAB has strongly agreed on further measures to reduce interruptions to the rhythm of the game, including the application of a countdown for throw-ins from the touchline and goal line.

The assembly proposed some modifications to the regulations that oblige players not to receive medical attention on the field, but to go outside it where they will remain for a specified time. The assembly also agreed to apply a time limit of 10 seconds for players leaving the field of play when being substituted.

Regarding the VAR protocol, the assembly recommended that the intervention remain limited to 4 specific situations that could change the fate of the match (goal, penalty, direct red card and errors in identification). There are three specific extensions; red cards that come after a wrong second yellow card; cases where a team is wrongly penalized for a foul that causes a red or yellow card; corner kicks that are clearly awarded incorrectly, with the condition that all of this is done immediately.