The International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the rules of football, has approved a set of new measures during its annual meeting in Wales. The goal of these changes is to enhance the flow of the game and tackle the persistent issue of time-wasting, often referred to as 'cera' in Brazilian football slang. These measures are set to be implemented starting from this year's World Cup,

Key changes include stricter enforcement of time limits for taking throw-ins and goal kicks, where referees will be able to initiate a five-second countdown if they feel the player is taking too long. If the player exceeds this limit, the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team. Additionally, players who receive medical attention on-field will be required to leave the pitch for one minute after the match resumes, effectively reducing the time lost due to injuries. These rules aim to ensure a smoother and quicker-paced game, potentially leading to greater spectator enjoyment and competitive fairness.

This decision stems from a growing awareness among football authorities that excessive stoppages can detract from the quality of the matches and frustrate fans. With these adjustments, the IFAB hopes to promote a more continuous and engaging playing style. Football leagues around the world may also take cues from these changes, impacting overall strategies around player management and tactics during games.