The World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada will mark the beginning of a new era. In addition to being the first edition with 48 participating teams, the tournament will introduce a series of regulatory changes promoted by FIFA and the IFAB. FIFA will apply the criterion of direct confrontation as the primary method for ranking teams with the same number of points. In this way, if two or more teams finish with the same number of points, the results obtained in the matches played between them will be considered first. If the tie persists, the regulations include other parameters. The goal difference in direct matches will be reviewed, followed by the number of goals scored in those matches. Only then will the overall goal difference of the group be used as a tie-breaking factor. This is already being implemented, for example, in the Copa Libertadores. New Rules Another area where changes will occur is the disciplinary section. One of the points that has generated the most impact is the prohibition of covering the mouth during discussions: the penalty will be a red card. This measure follows recent incidents involving discriminatory insults. This is known as the "Vinícius-Prestianni Law." FIFA seeks to increase control over this type of situation and facilitate subsequent reviews. Prestianni was the subject of controversy due to his insult with his mouth covered. Agencies Penalties related to protests against referees are also being tightened. Any player who leaves the field of play as a sign of protest may be expelled. In addition, FIFA contemplates sanctions for the team involved, including the possibility of losing points from the match. This stems from the scandal involving Morocco and Senegal in the African Cup of Nations. Furthermore, the World Cup will have a new system for clearing yellow cards. FIFA has decided to divide the tournament into two disciplinary periods to prevent players from being suspended for the decisive stages. In this way, accumulated yellow cards will be cleared at the end of the group stage and after the quarter-finals. More Game One of the priorities of the regulations is to reduce wasted time. In throw-ins, players will have a maximum of five seconds to put the ball back into play. If they exceed that time, the throw-in will be awarded to the opposing team. This section also addresses substitutions. The player being replaced will have 10 seconds to leave the field of play. If they exceed that time, the player entering must wait for another interruption before being able to enter. The medical protocol has also been modified. Any player who receives medical attention must remain off the field for one minute after the game resumes. The exception will remain for serious injuries or head injuries. Greater Role for VAR VAR is another area of change. Since its implementation, the tool has been limited to goals, penalties, direct expulsions, and identity confusion. Now, its scope of action is expanding. Video arbitration can now intervene in plays related to corner kicks and goal kicks when there is an error. In addition, VAR will have authority over second yellow cards. Currently, a red card for a double yellow cannot be reviewed. NEWSLETTER Deportivo Monday, 8:45 AM A special selection with coverage and analysis of the most important sporting events of the weekend, by the sports team of La Tercera. By subscribing, you are accepting the Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policies of La Tercera.