Addressing Time-Wasting in Football: A Call for Enhanced Match Management Time-wasting in football has emerged as a significant concern, leading to increasing demands for reform in time management during matches. This issue not only affects the flow of the game but also impacts the overall spectator experience and fairness of competition. Implementing strategic changes in timekeeping could enhance the integrity of the sport and ensure that every minute contributes meaningfully to the match...
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Football enthusiasts have expressed growing concerns about the increasing length of matches in the Premier League, with many games now exceeding 100 minutes. The primary frustration stems from tactics that delay play, such as feigned injuries and slow set pieces, which diminish the overall excitement of the sport.
FIFA has advocated for a minimum of 60 minutes of actual game time within a standard 90-minute match. This initiative saw partial success during the World Cup, where an average of 59 minutes and 28 seconds of play was recorded.
However, as domestic leagues attempted to address these issues, progress has stalled, leading to reduced ball-in-play time.
The facts
In recent seasons, initiatives aimed at reducing time-wasting have led to a temporary increase in ball-in-play statistics.
During the 2025-24 season, the average duration of active play reached a peak of 58 minutes and 11 seconds in the Premier League. However, this figure has since declined to 56 minutes and 59 seconds in the 2025-25 season, and further to 55 minutes and five seconds in the current campaign.
The impact of time-wasting tactics
Time-wasting strategies have been particularly harmful, with some matches, such as Aston Villa’s game against Bournemouth, recording as little as 45 minutes and 48 seconds of actual play. This trend of increasing delays is concerning, given that the average match duration has risen to 100 minutes. In contrast, the 2025-23 season recorded an average of 54 minutes and 49 seconds of ball-in-play time, despite matches being shorter.
Potential changes to improve match flow
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) is currently considering measures to enhance match flow. One proposal involves stopping the clock whenever the ball is not in play, similar to systems used in basketball and American football. This strategy could help achieve the desired 60 minutes of active gameplay.
Challenges and implications of clock stoppage
While the concept of two 30-minute halves with a running clock during active play is appealing, concerns remain about the unpredictability of match durations. Analysis of average stoppages for set pieces and throw-ins suggests that a match typically lasting around 100 minutes could extend to nearly 98 minutes and 35 seconds. However, this estimate can vary significantly based on specific game situations.
Additionally, visibility issues arise, as many stadiums lack visible clocks, making it difficult for fans to track match time. This lack of clarity could detract from the viewing experience, especially in grassroots games with limited resources.
Background
The history of time management in football has seen similar attempts in the past. Major League Soccer trialed a comparable approach from 1996 to 1999, where clocks were stopped for significant stoppages in play. However, this method failed to account for the ball being out of play, leading to its eventual discontinuation.
The ongoing debate surrounding time-wasting and match duration emphasizes the need for stakeholders to explore viable solutions that enhance the spectator experience while maintaining the integrity of the game. Stricter enforcement of time regulations and innovative clock management systems are essential to maximizing the excitement and enjoyment of football matches.
