In a move that could dramatically alter match dynamics, football's world governing body, FIFA, has unveiled a significant new regulation. The rule mandates that any player receiving on-field medical treatment must leave the pitch for a full two minutes, leaving their team a player short. This announcement comes with just three weeks remaining until the kick-off of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
What is FIFA's New Two-Minute Rule?
Pierluigi Collina, the head of FIFA's referees committee, confirmed the details of this initiative. The primary goal is to tackle the persistent issue of time-wasting, where stoppages for minor injuries or tactical delays have frustrated fans and disrupted the flow of games. Under this rule, teams will face an immediate numerical disadvantage if a player goes down.
However, FIFA has built in crucial exceptions to ensure fairness and player safety. A player with a serious, match-ending injury can be substituted immediately without serving the two-minute absence. Furthermore, if the opposing player responsible for the incident receives a yellow or red card, the injured player is exempt from leaving. Goalkeepers are also excluded from this rule, recognizing that their temporary absence would be too disruptive.
Potential Impact on AFCON 2025 and African Teams
The timing of this announcement places immediate pressure on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the nations preparing for AFCON 2025, which begins on December 21st. As of now, CAF, under President Patrice Motsepe, has not confirmed whether the new FIFA directive will be implemented for the continental tournament.
If adopted, the rule would force coaches, including Nigeria's, to rethink their in-game strategies. Teams would need to prepare for scenarios where a key player is temporarily sidelined. For a side like the Super Eagles of Nigeria, chasing a fourth AFCON title, managing stars such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi becomes even more tactical. An injury-prone star receiving brief treatment could suddenly leave the team vulnerable for a critical 120-second period.
Testing and Future Implementation
According to reports, this rule will first be trialed at the upcoming 2025 Arab Cup. Its performance there will determine whether it is rolled out to other major competitions, including future editions of the Africa Cup of Nations and even the FIFA World Cup. Collina stated that this change is part of FIFA's broader mission to modernize the sport and address long-standing frustrations.
For now, national football associations and coaches across Africa are left in a state of anticipation. They must wait for CAF's final decision while considering how to adapt their match-day preparations for a potential new reality where every knock and cramp carries a heavier strategic cost.
