FIFA to trial two new rules at the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup

FIFA has approved the trial of two new rules during the Gulf Arab Cup (Khaleeji 27) tournament. One rule aims to limit time-wasting by goalkeepers feigning injuries, while the other addresses defenders pushing opponents during set pieces.

If the allotted time expires without a player being selected, the referee will order the team captain to leave the field for one minute. If the goalkeeper is the team captain, the second captain present on the field will be required to leave.

The implementation of this rule is expected to raise questions about the criteria referees will use to distinguish between genuine injuries and attempts to waste time, as well as the decision-making and enforcement mechanisms during matches.

These trials are part of ongoing efforts to develop football laws, reduce time-wasting, and address controversial refereeing situations. The results of their application in Khaleeji 27 will be evaluated before a decision is made on whether to adopt them permanently.