Virgil van Dijk criticises FIFA over hydration breaks as Liverpool star hits out

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SportFootballVirgil van DijkFIFA have mandated that all 104 matches at the World Cup will contain a three-minute-long hydration break in each half, even if the stadium has air conditioning like for the Netherlands' clash with JapanVirgil van Dijk has criticised FIFA's decision to make hydration breaks mandatory in all 104 World Cup matches. So, if it is really hot it would be good to put them in but I think you have to look at it in every game, separately, in my opinion.

But I think I have said enough already on that."Get the latest World Cup 2026 news in your inbox with our Make Football Great Again newsletterVan Dijk evidently didn't want to go any further in criticising FIFA - unlike football fans. Those at home, in pubs or in the stands have been left frustrated by the breaks, feeling as if games at the World Cup are being played in four quarters.Broadcasters have taken the opportunity to show adverts during the three-minute breaks, although ITV and the BBC have declined.

FIFA are said to have accepted Fox's explanation for their error.England's opening game against Croatia also takes places in Dallas and kicks off at the same time as the Netherlands and Japan's clash (9pm UK, 3pm local).Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Upgrade your World Cup TV setup with the Sky Glass 'designed for football'This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.