FIFA on Tuesday explained the stricter rules that led to Germany having a potential game-winning goal disallowed in their shock World Cup elimination.
Defender Jonathan Tah’s header in extra time against Paraguay on Monday was disallowed after video review due to a foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Replays showed German Waldemar pushing Anton Gill to the ground, but the minimal contact led to criticism of the decision.
Germany then lost the round of 32 matches in a penalty shootout, with Tah firing a decisive penalty over the crossbar.
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FIFA referee chief Pierluigi Collina said officials have been ordered to penalize incidents when players try to block opponents and make no attempt to play the ball, especially if they involve goalkeepers.
“Although holding a position is not in itself a fault, when an attacking player is not interested in the ball and deliberately moves, even marginally, with the clear intention of impeding the opponent’s movement and preventing him from defending, referees and if necessary VAR must carefully analyze the incident and intervene. “This is especially the case when the tactic is aimed at preventing the opponent’s goalkeeper from defending the goal.
“Coaches and players have been informed, so it should come as no surprise that referees will penalize these violations.”
Collina said measures to combat time wasting had been successful.
There are now time limits on goal kicks, throw-ins and substitutions, while players are forced to leave the pitch for a minute after an injury.
“These measures have all been very effective and are unanimously regarded as very positive innovations,” said Collina.
Published on July 1, 2026
