Overview

• IFAB approved on March 1 that goalkeepers must release the ball within eight seconds under a visible countdown to discourage delay tactics.
• UEFA applied the rule at the Euro U21 Championship, replacing the previous six-second indirect-free-kick sanction with an automatic corner for breaches.
• Noah Atubolu admitted the countdown adds urgency to his distribution, stating he is adapting his usual game tempo.
• Germany opened with a 3-0 win over Slovenia in Bratislava, powered by Nick Woltemade’s three goals.
• Coach Antonio Di Salvo prepares for the upcoming Czech Republic match and assesses midfielder Merlin Röhl’s ankle injury status.