February 7 – A mention of the phrase, extra-time, conjures up memories of classic matches as physically and emotionally shattered players drag their tired bodies and minds through another 30 minutes, however UEFA is in the early stages of reviewing whether to scrap extra-time in their European competitions.
With the topic of player welfare gathers more momentum, serious consideration is being given to reducing the number of minutes played.
Currently, Conmebol’s, Copa America is the only major international tournament that does not play extra-time and moves straight to penalty kicks after 90 minutes of play.
With the football calendar bursting at the seams and with no apparent end in sight, especially with the inaugural expanded Club World Cup set to kick off in the United States with 32 teams competing this summer, players’ unions, are looking for measures that would ease strains on their overworked players.
It is thought that cutting the additional 30 minutes from two-legged ties should extra-time be necessary will go a small way towards alleviating the problems caused by late-season fixture congestion.
From a smaller club perspective, this would also be welcome news as they don’t have the well-stocked squads that bigger teams have and would prefer going straight to the lottery of penalties, where anything can and usually does happen. This would also appeal to broadcasters whose tight schedules are blown apart when matches are extended.
Last season three Champions League ties from the round of 16 onwards went into extra time, while none required an additional period in 2022-23.
Any change would have to be ratified by UEFA’s executive committee, whose last major change to the substance of club competition ties came when the away goals rule was removed in 2021.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1738905330labto1738905330ofdlr1738905330owedi1738905330sni@o1738905330fni1738905330