Soccer and its rules continue to evolve, but goalkeepers may not like a new measure. From now on, goalkeepers may only have 8 seconds to clear the ball after taking it in hand. If this time limit is exceeded, the opposing team will be awarded a corner.
This decision has been taken by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the independent body responsible for governing the rules of soccer.
In an official statement, the IFAB explains: “Keeping the ball in the hands of a goalkeeper for too long is a waste of time and an unsporting tactic. As long as the goalkeeper has the ball, no opponent can challenge him for possession. This behavior also causes frustration among spectators.”
According to The Times, trials have already been carried out in youth competitions in Malta and England (U21 category). The results have proved conclusive, paving the way for the possible adoption of this rule in professional soccer.
The way it would work is that if a goalkeeper exceeds the 8-second time limit, he or she would be given a warning of 5 seconds to clear. After that, the opposing team would be awarded a corner. Patrick Nelson, an influential member of the IFAB, was delighted with the initial results: “The data shows that very few corners are conceded, which proves that the rule has a deterrent effect. This is exactly what we’re looking for.
Another round of tests is due to take place shortly in Italy, in U20 competitions, with one variation: awarding a touch rather than a corner. The results of this experiment could seal the fate of this rule in professional soccer. However, should it be adopted, it is likely to provoke mixed reactions among goalkeepers.
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