As one of the most popular games in the world, soccer has always attracted the attention of millions of fans with its unpredictability and emotional intensity. Over time, the rules of the game have evolved to make it more exciting, fair and competitive. One such innovation has been the golden goal rule, which has had a huge impact on international tournaments and caused a lot of controversy.
What is a “golden goal”?
“Golden goal” is a term used in soccer to refer to a goal scored in extra time that immediately ends the match and brings victory to the team that scored it. This format was introduced to avoid protracted matches, especially in the final stages of tournaments, when a tie is maintained after the main time of the game.
The application of the golden goal rule has been seen especially in playoff matches of major international tournaments such as World Cups, European Championships and other competitions.
Origins of the rule
The idea of the “golden goal” dates back to the middle of the 20th century. Such a concept was first proposed in the 1940s in England, when soccer officials were looking for a way to shorten the duration of matches and make them more dynamic. However, the implementation of the rule did not take place then.
The implementation of the rule only returned in the 1990s. The reasons were complaints about matches ending too often after a penalty shootout. Soccer experts and fans agreed that a series of 11-meter kicks often does not reflect the real strength of the team, and the result of the game depends more on luck than on the skill of the players.
The International Football Federation (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) began to look for alternative ways to end matches, and one such solution was the introduction of the golden goal.
Introduction of the rule
The golden goal rule was officially approved in 1993. The first game where the rule was applied took place in the same year in the World Youth Soccer Championship. Australia defeated Uruguay thanks to a goal scored in extra time.
At the level of major international tournaments, the rule made its debut at the 1996 European Championship in England. It was the first major tournament where playoff matches were concluded using the golden goal. And this innovative element immediately became iconic.
Famous examples
The most famous case of using the “golden goal” was the final of the European Championship in 1996. In the final game between the national teams of Germany and the Czech Republic, the “golden goal” was scored by Oliver Birkhoff. This moment became legendary in the history of soccer and cemented the rule of its importance.
Another memorable moment was the application of the “golden goal” at the 2002 World Cup. At that time, Turkey defeated Senegal thanks to a goal in extra time, which was also a golden goal. These examples show that the rule added drama and intrigue to the game.
Advantages of the rule
Dramatic and spectacular
“Golden goal” added a special tension to matches. Any movement of the players could end the game instantly, making the game exciting until the last moment.
Shortening the length of matches
Instead of playing all 30 minutes of extra time, teams could end the game earlier, which was especially important for tournaments with tight schedules.
Fairness
Victory went to the team that was more active in attack, not the team that was more successful in the penalty shootout.
Criticisms and problems
Despite the appeal of the idea, the golden goal rule has been criticized.
Psychological pressure
Players were under immense pressure, as one mistake could cost the whole game. This sometimes led to teams being overly cautious when trying to avoid risk rather than aiming for victory.
Unpredictability and unfairness
“Golden goal” was often perceived as a cruel way of ending a game. Fans of losing teams complained that their team had no chance to win back.
Lack of a level playing field
If one team started extra time with an advantage in ball possession or attack, it could be a deciding factor in favor of one side.
Abolition of the rule
As time went on, more and more voices were raised in favor of abolishing the golden goal. In 2004, FIFA decided to abolish the rule. In its place, a “silver goal” rule was proposed, according to which a match would end if either team had scored by the end of the first 15-minute period of extra time. However, this rule was soon discontinued.
Today, in the event of a tie after extra time, the winner is decided in a penalty shootout.
The golden goal rule has become a colorful chapter in the history of soccer. It added drama and new emotions to the game, but it also sparked controversy and critical debate. Despite the abolition, the moments associated with this rule, forever remained in the memory of fans and entered the annals of soccer.
Soccer continues to evolve and rule changes remain an important part of its evolution. Perhaps in the future we will see new experiments that will make the game even more exciting and fair.
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