- FIFA has added three-minute mid-half hydration breaks (effectively splitting games into quarters) to combat extreme heat, a move that’s practical for player safety but has sparked debate among purists.
- Argentina coach Mauricio Pochettino has turned the breaks into mini tactical sessions—famously pulling out a laptop during a stoppage to show players clips and instructions.
- The U.S. clinched first in Group D and players say they’re mostly unfazed by the rule, with the team already through to the round of 32.
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