In a move to enhance the flow of the game, UEFA has introduced a new rule just before the tournament’s commencement. Goalkeepers must now release the ball within eight seconds, with referees visibly counting down the last five. Exceeding this limit results in a corner kick for the opposing team and a yellow card for the goalkeeper.

“We must not do it. It would be stupid,” said Sejk at a pre -match press conference. “It is necessary to count on it and help the goalkeeper maximum in the play,” he added.

The previous rule allowed goalkeepers to hold the ball for six seconds, leading to an indirect free kick for the opposition. However, this rule was rarely enforced.

Coach Jan Suchopárek shared his thoughts: “We have included certain things in the pre -match training. In principle, nothing should change. Although it is new and maybe even surprising, but that belongs to football. They all have the same conditions.”

The 55 -year -old coach admitted his limited experience as a goalkeeper. “In the gate I stood for the last time in the district championship in pupils, so I can’t evaluate it from their outlook,” he smiled. “But overall I perceive it positively. I believe it will remain in the future. It can contribute to accelerating the game and greater attractiveness for viewers.”

According to UEFA guidelines, the eight-second count begins when the goalkeeper has full control of the ball and is not under pressure from opponents. If attacking players attempt to impede the goalkeeper’s pass, the referee will stop the count and award an indirect free kick to the defending team.

The primary goal is to eliminate delays, speed up the game, and enhance its appeal to viewers.

“It can be useful. It is precisely because it does not stay and football is more fun for the audience.In addition,the corner kick can be a perilous situation. We will see after the tournament what we will say.

Defender Štěpán Chaloupek commented on the change: “I also take it as a way to speed up the game. It will be up to us to offer ourselves quickly and help the goalkeeper with the play.”

The new rule was first implemented in the championship’s opening match between Slovakia and Spain, with Spain winning 3: 2 in Bratislava with a 90th-minute goal.

The coming days will reveal how goalkeepers adapt to the new regulation, how quickly teams adjust, and whether the rule will impact crucial moments in the tournament.