The rule that explains the unusual 15 minutes of added time in Argentina vs Morocco at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The 15 minutes of added time after the regulation 90 unleashed controversy. However, there is an explanation and even a proof behind it that explains it. Find out all the details here!
The match between Argentina and Morocco at theParis 2024 Olympic Games left a great controversy: 15 minutes of added time at the end of the match, which ended 2-2 after a goal by Cristian Medina in the 105th minute.
The amount of time added by Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg surprised many. While there were interruptions during the match, especially in the second half, 15 minutes seemed excessive.
Why so many added minutes in the Argentina vs Morocco match?
The explanation lies in a new VAR test that is being implemented in the tournament. This test uses a timer to count time lost due to interruptions in the game, with the aim of ensuring a greater net playing time.
Cristian Medina #8 of Team Argentina celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates during the Men’s group B match between Argentina and Morocco during the Olympic Games Paris 2024 at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on July 24, 2024 in Saint-Etienne, France. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
According to journalist Hugo Balassone, in the match where Argentina faced Morocco the net time was only 54 minutes and 27 seconds, well below what was desired by the organizers and FIFA. Hence the number of minutes added by the Swedish referee Nyberg.
Does this new VAR test work?
The answer is still unclear. While the intention is good, the large number of interruptions in the match (88, according to Opta) makes it difficult to keep the clock accurate. In addition, Moroccan fans took advantage of the situation to make time with fallen players and even invade the field.
The VAR test with the stopwatch is interesting, but it still needs adjustments. The Paris 2024 organization must also improve security in the stadiums to avoid this type of situation. Security lapses allowed fans to disrupt the game and incidents at the end of the match put the safety of the players at risk.
Alexander Rosquez is a bilingual sports writer fluent in English and Spanish, who joined Bolavip in June 2024. With a degree in Social Communication and a specialization in sports, Alexander brings over 15 years of media experience. He completed his academic studies in Zulia, Venezuela. Throughout his career, Alexander has covered a wide range of sports events, including soccer, MLB, and NBA. His expertise lies in real-time coverage of competitions across various globally relevant sports leagues. Prior to joining Bolavip, Alexander gained extensive experience in MLB and soccer coverage for both national and international media outlets. His discipline in sports event coverage and meticulous attention to detail make him a valuable asset to the Bolavip team. Alexander’s passion for sports and his clear, precise communication style set him apart as a standout writer in the sports arena.
