Football Set to Enforce Stricter Rule on Time-Wasting Goalkeepers with Finger-Counting System

The laws of football are constantly evolving to improve fairness and maintain the integrity of the game. One rule that has long been a topic of debate is the regulation limiting how long goalkeepers can hold onto the ball.

Currently, goalkeepers are allowed a maximum of six seconds before they must release possession, but enforcement of this rule has been inconsistent. Many goalkeepers frequently exceed the limit, particularly in the closing stages of a match, using it as a time-wasting tactic to slow down play.

Two key reasons have contributed to the lack of strict enforcement. First, goalkeepers are often surrounded by opposing players—especially after set pieces—making it difficult to distribute the ball immediately.

Second, the existing punishment for exceeding the time limit—an indirect free-kick inside the penalty area—is considered too harsh for what is often seen as a minor infraction.

READ ALSO: ECOWAS Bank and European Investment Bank Launch €100 Million Climate Finance Initiative

To address these issues, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has announced a revision to the rule, which will take effect on July 1, 2025. The key changes include:

• Extended time limit: Goalkeepers will now have eight seconds to release the ball instead of six.
• Stricter enforcement: Referees will now visibly count down the final five seconds of the time limit using their fingers to signal the countdown to the goalkeeper.
• New penalty: If a goalkeeper holds onto the ball beyond eight seconds, instead of an indirect free-kick, the opposing team could be awarded a throw-in or even a corner kick.

Before implementing the new law globally, trials are already underway. Premier League 2 has introduced the revised rule, with goalkeepers being penalized with a corner kick if they hold the ball beyond the time limit. A similar experiment is ongoing in Malta, and the response from officials and teams has been largely positive.

READ ALSO: NAFDAC Blacklists Indian Firm Over Dangerous Opioid Distribution in West Africa

In an official statement, IFAB explained the rationale behind the amendment:“After trials have shown a major positive impact where goalkeepers have been holding onto the ball for too long, The IFAB has unanimously decided to amend Law 12.2 (Indirect Free Kick). “

“The amendment means that if a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds (with the referee using a visual five-second countdown), the referee will award a corner kick to the opposing team (rather than the current indirect free-kick for more than six seconds).”

The primary aim of this adjustment is to create a fairer and more balanced approach to time-wasting. By increasing the allowable time but introducing a more enforceable punishment, IFAB hopes to strike a balance between maintaining the flow of the game and preventing goalkeepers from exploiting loopholes.