Players stage unofficial hydration break during England vs Ghana match
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 4:00 AM
Last updated Jun 26, 2026

During the ongoing match between England and Ghana at Boston Stadium on June 26, a group of players took drinks during an injury delay as the first official hydration break was about to occur. This prompted an irritated reaction from referees, who expressed outrage at the players' actions, viewing it as interference with the planned advertisement timings. The introduction of a four-quarter structure in the game has led to widespread frustration among fans, players, and coaches regarding the impact on match flow and advertising protocols.
- •Match between England and Ghana is currently in progress.
- •Players took unauthorized drinks during an injury delay.
- •Referees reacted with displeasure over the unofficial break.
- •Fans and coaches have criticized the new four-quarter structure.
- 4:00 AMThe Guardian Sport — Fifa unites the world – in anger at hydration breaks (AKA ad breaks) | Barney Ronay
"Fans, players and coaches have voiced their indignation at the way the game is massively altered by the four-quarter structure With 22 minutes gone on Tuesday night at Boston Stadium, and an injury delay in train, a clutch of England and Ghana players wandered to the side of the pitch and began taking drinks. This was the signal for a sudden spurt of refereeing indignation, the officials sprinting across in a state of apparently genuine outrage, appalled by the spectacle of unofficial hydration. The first drinks break, Hydro-Quart-One, was only a minute away. Here we had players basically stealing hydration. Not to mention messing with the most vital part of the show – the advert timings. Guys, the director has not cued the break. David Beckham has the ice-cold faux beer halfway to his lips. Will Ferrell is making hyena-like vocal warm-up noises at the wheel of his crisp delivery lorry. We’re professionals. Hit your marks people. Continue reading...
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