The concussion substitution option was used during the 2026 FIFA World Cup during the Group G match between Egypt and New Zealand, played at BC Place Vancouver, on Sunday.
Egypt came back from a goal down to win 3–1, marking their first-ever win in the quadrennial tournament.
However, the Pharaohs were briefly concerned after substitute Hossam Abdelmaguid had to leave the match after sustaining a head injury in stoppage time.
The defender was hit in the face by an opponent’s hand, causing a bruise to his face. Although he got back to his feet, Abdelmaguid was replaced by Mohamed Abdelmonem, who came on as a substitute due to concussion, as Egypt had used up their full quota of five substitutions.
History of substitutions at the Football World Cup
Substitutions were first introduced in the 1970 edition in Mexico, where teams were allowed to use two substitutes per match. In 1994, in addition to the two substitutions, teams were also allowed to replace an injured goalkeeper or a red card.
From 1998 onwards, teams were allowed to make three substitutions, with no additional option for a goalkeeper who was injured or sent off. The rule persisted until 2018, when teams were allowed to make a fourth substitution if a match went to extra time.
Four years ago, countries in Qatar were allowed five substitutions during regular time, and one more if the matches went into extra time. The 2022 edition also saw the introduction of the concussion substitute, which could be used at any time in the game if a player was suspected of having a concussion.
Published on June 22, 2026
