FIFA defends hydration break after England-Ghana injury stoppage

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FIFA defended the use of hydration breaks after an injury stoppage in the England-Ghana match at the World Cup, stating they ensure equal conditions for teams. The breaks have faced criticism from England’s coach Thomas Tuchel and fans.

FIFA says a hydration break was called in the England v Ghana game to ensure “equal conditions” for all teams – even though play had been halted for head injuries minutes earlier. The breaks, which have been criticised by England head coach Thomas Tuchel and consistently booed by England fans, have been introduced for all World Cup matches by FIFA for these finals in North America for player welfare reasons.