What is the protocol for a concussion at the Qatar World Cup? Changes, injury time...
After what happened to the Iranian goalkeeper in the opening match against England, take a look into FIFA’s concussion protocols and how they work.
Some 20 minutes into the World Cup fixture against England, Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand had to be subbed off after crashing into his defender when trying to stop a Harry Kane cross.
The starting goalkeeper for Carlos Quieroz’s side was down for over 10 minutes before continuing the game in a shock turnaround that drew criticism from Jermaine Jenas. Still, the Persepolis keeper went down once more just moments after play got underway, making a lot of worried faces on the Iranian bench and in the stands.
What are your thoughts on this?
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) November 21, 2022
Alireza Beyranvand played on for a few minutes then lay down signalling for a substitution. #BBCWorldCup #BBCFootball #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/a2Rwj4Cdxg
World Cup news:
Ronaldo to leave Old Trafford by ‘mutual agreement’
Cristiano eyes post-United step
Subbing Beiranvand did not cost the Iranian team regarding their five possible subs. Still, the newly established concussion protocol might prohibit the Iranian and the possibility of playing again at this tournament.
World Cup concussion protocol
FIFA brought a new concussion protocol ahead of this year’s World Cup, with teams now permitted to make an additional substitution.
Iran's goalkeeper went down after clashing heads w/teammate. Cleared, only to lay down minutes later & beg for a sub.#WorldCup is off to a disastrous start on #concussion management.
— Chris Nowinski, Ph.D. (@ChrisNowinski1) November 21, 2022
Sets an example that puts 10's of millions of global youth players at risk.
Shameful. pic.twitter.com/o9BcyUG4Kb
In a situation when a player has suffered or is suspected of having sustained a concussion, teams will now be able to make a single permanent concussion substitution. To help make these decisions, medical staff will be at each game to review video footage to check if the injury is likely to have led to a concussion. This allows each country to put their players’ health first without affecting their five acceptable substitutions.
The opposing side will also be allowed an additional change to avoid any extra advantage for the team who uses a concussion sub.