- Fifa's Technical Study Group (TSG) has issued a directive for referees at the upcoming World Cup to strictly enforce rules against foul play and grappling during set-pieces, such as corners.
- This instruction comes in response to a growing trend observed in the Premier League season, where goals from dead-ball situations have become a significant factor, often involving contentious jostling in the penalty area.
- Pascal Zuberbuhler, leader of the TSG and a former Switzerland goalkeeper, confirmed that officials will be meticulously monitoring for infringements, citing recent incidents like West Ham's disallowed goal against Arsenal due to a foul on the goalkeeper.
- Zuberbuhler acknowledged the difficulty for referees in spotting subtle fouls amidst crowded situations but expressed confidence in the World Cup officials to manage these scenarios effectively from the outset.
- However, TSG member Gilberto Silva, a former Arsenal midfielder, expressed scepticism that set-pieces would be as decisive at the World Cup, arguing that national teams lack the extensive preparation time available to club sides for intricate routines.
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