The end of time-wasting at the World Cup.

Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Dimitry Mpasi has become the first player to be penalized under FIFA's new time-wasting rules at the 2026 World Cup.

Goalkeeper Dimitry Mpasi became the first player to be penalized under FIFA's new anti-time-wasting rules at the 2026 World Cup.

The 1-1 draw between Portugal and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Group K of the 2026 World Cup was noteworthy not only for the result on the field but also for marking the first time a new FIFA rule was applied at the tournament.

In the 52nd minute, goalkeeper Dimitry Mpasi took too long to execute his goal kick. Immediately, referee Abdulrahman Al-Jassim awarded Portugal a corner kick according to the new FIFA rule introduced ahead of the World Cup.

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According to Law 16, the referee will use a 5-second countdown if a player or team delays taking a goal kick. If the ball is not returned to play after the time has elapsed, the opposing team will be awarded a corner kick.

FIFA introduced this change to curb time-wasting, a problem that is increasingly prevalent in modern football. Mpasi thus became the first player at the 2026 World Cup to be penalized under the new regulations.

The 5-second countdown rule applies not only to goal kicks but also to throw-ins. If a player fails to complete the throw-in within the allotted time, the throw-in is awarded to the opposing team.

In addition, FIFA has implemented new rules regarding substitutions. A player being substituted must leave the field within 10 seconds. If they intentionally delay, the substitute player will have to wait an additional minute before being allowed to enter the field, resulting in the team temporarily playing with one less player.

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Following the Mpasi incident, changes to the rules of play for the 2026 World Cup have begun to show clearly on the pitch. FIFA expects the new regulations to help matches run more smoothly and minimize time-wasting tactics.

Source: https://znews.vn/dau-cham-het-cho-nan-cau-gio-o-world-cup-post1660793.html