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World Cup 2026 sees surge in late goals from hydration breaks

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 11:39 AM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

World Cup 2026 sees surge in late goals from hydration breaks

Summary

World Cup 2026 matches are experiencing an increase in late goals, with 29.2% of scores occurring after the 76th minute., Switzerland's Johan Manzambi scored two late goals against Bosnia and Herzegovina, contributing to four goals scored by Switzerland in the final stages. The trend aligns with FIFA's introduction of mandatory hydration breaks, which seem to impact goal timing. This tournament is seeing more late goals than any recent World Cup, raising questions about the effects of player fatigue and tactical changes.

Source Links

BBC Sport

By the Numbers

•29.2% of goals scored after 76th minute in World Cup 2026
•Switzerland scored four times after 70th minute against Bosnia
•Hydration breaks introduced by FIFA may contribute to scoring surge
•Switzerland's three late goals lead the tournament so far
•Late goals historically define World Cup matches but have increased this year

Latest Updates

11:39 AMBBC Sport — Why are so many World Cup goals being scored late?

What they're saying

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World Cup 2026 is witnessing a surge in late goals. Longer stoppage times, tactical substitutions and hydration breaks are reshaping matches
— BBC Sport

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