FIFA has responded after facing criticism from England fans and pundits over a hydration break that occurred shortly after a lengthy injury stoppage during the Three Lions' 0-0 draw with Ghana at the 2026 World Cup.
Incident During England vs Ghana
The match, played at Boston Stadium on Tuesday, saw a clash of heads between Jordan Ayew and Reece James in the 20th minute, causing a pause in play. While the players received medical treatment, both teams returned to their benches to take on fluids and speak to coaches. After just over a minute, referee Said Martinez instructed players to move away from the touchline, indicating a hydration break would occur in two minutes. The game restarted after a three-minute injury stoppage, but play continued for only two more minutes before Martinez paused again for the FIFA-mandated hydration break.
Fan and Pundit Reaction
Former England striker and BBC co-commentator Alan Shearer described the incident as 'nonsense', suggesting it would be 'common sense' to combine the injury stoppage and hydration break. Loud boos were heard from fans around the stadium, a common occurrence during the controversial hydration breaks at this World Cup.
FIFA's Response
In response to the criticism, FIFA stated to the Press Association that hydration breaks are implemented 'involving all teams in every match, so matches are played under the same conditions'. A spokesperson added: 'We want to ensure equal conditions for everyone and that's why these breaks are implemented in every match.'
Background on Hydration Breaks
Hydration breaks were first announced for the World Cup in December 2025 after their use at the 2025 Club World Cup, held in the United States last summer. They are three-minute breaks that take place 22 minutes into each half and have proved massively divisive at the tournament so far. Chief tournament officer Manolo Zubiria had previously addressed the possibility of such episodes, stating: 'Obviously, if there's an injury (stoppage) at the moment of the 20th or 21st minute and it's ongoing, this will be addressed on the spot with the referee.'
