FIFA must introduce independent timekeepers are valuable minutes were “lost” during France’s narrow win over Morocco.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that he has been beating the same drum for the last decade.
In a first half that saw Kylian Mbappe miss from the penalty spot on Thursday, 9 July, commentators and fans were left questioning the added minutes.
Despite the three-minute hydration break, which is already controversial enough, and the three-minute penalty check, only five minutes were added on.
Many believed that the VAR review of Noussair Mazraoui’s challenge on Mbappe helped Yassine Bounou to save the Real Madrid star’s spot-kick.
There have been questions asked throughout the 2026 World Cup about the lack of added time at the end of halves, and FIFA are being urged to act on those concerns.
FIFA must introduce independent timekeepers across all levels
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett pushed once again for an independent timekeeper to be introduced, with the current officials having too much to handle.
I’ve had the same view for over ten years now, and that is if the game is going to be timed accurately, it has to have an independent timekeeper,” he said.
“Clearly in that particular incident, France versus Morocco, we’re all aware that insufficient added time was put on a World Cup game.
“So FIFA need to examine that. At the moment, sadly, the referees and the fourth official and everybody else have got a lot on their hands in terms of managing the games.
“And I think with Law Five, the referee is the sole timekeeper, has been there for far too long.
“For the integrity of the game, and I’m not questioning referee’s ability here, but clearly there’s sufficient evidence now to demonstrate that insufficient time is being added and game time is lost.”
Who is favourite to win the 2026 World Cup?
Mbappe would eventually find the back of the net, with Ousmane Dembele finding another six minutes later to secure their spot in the semi-finals.
Les Bleus are still favourites to lift the title, even with Spain up next at the Dallas Stadium, being rated a 33.58 per cent chance.
Luis de la Fuentes’ side, on the other hand, are second-favourites, with a 23.84 per cent chance, and England being given a 22.62 per cent chance.
With just four teams left, supporters from all nations are, understandably, confident of reaching the final and lifting the trophy, but plenty of twists remain at the 2026 World Cup.
