Eight-second goalkeeper rule explainer

Regulations are ever-changing in football, and the eight-second goalkeeper rule is set to be the newest addition inaugurated into the sport.

With growing frustrations from football fans that goalkeepers take advantage of the six-second rule, referees are expected to clamp down on time wasting, despite two extra seconds being allowed.

Read all there is to know about the eight-second goalkeeper rule, set to be implemented from 1st July.

What is the eight-second goalkeeper rule?

The eight-second goalkeeper rule means that if a goalkeeper holds the ball for longer than eight seconds, their team will be penalised and a corner kick will be awarded to the opposing team.

This differs to the previous rule in which goalkeepers were allowed to handle the ball for six seconds, with the opposition team given an indirect free-kick should the time exceed six seconds.

Why is the eight-second goalkeeper rule being introduced?

The aim of the eight-second goalkeeper rule is to cut down on time-wasting and increase the pace of matches at all levels of the game.

Previously, goalkeepers would very rarely be punished for holding the ball for longer than six seconds, but referees are expected to be a lot stricter upon the introduction of the new eight-second rule.

When is the eight-second goalkeeper rule being introduced?

The law's first major tournament will be this summer's Club World Cup, set to start on Sunday 15th June.

The worldwide enforcement of the rule will be on 1st July.

What leagues will the eight-second rule be used in?

From the Premier League, La Liga and all other top European leagues, to Sunday League and everything in between, the eight-second goalkeeper rule will be implemented at every level of the game worldwide.