The Shrinking Game: How Increased Stoppage Time is Changing Brazilian Football
Brazilian football is facing a growing concern: a significant reduction in actual playing time. Recent matches in the 2026 Série A season have seen games with as little as 45 minutes and 53 seconds of the ball in play, a stark contrast to the traditional 90-minute match. This isn’t a new issue, but recent data highlights a worrying trend exacerbated by the increasing influence of VAR and a lenient approach to calling fouls.
The Impact of Frequent Interruptions
The core problem lies in the sheer number of stoppages. Referees are increasingly inclined to halt play for minor infractions, leading to fragmented matches. This trend, as noted in a February 7th article, has been building, with earlier games in the 2026 season already showing reduced playing time – 46 to 47 minutes in the first round.
This contrasts sharply with the faster-paced leagues admired globally. The quicker the game, the more challenging it becomes for officials to maintain accurate tracking of play. The introduction of VAR, intended to improve accuracy, has ironically contributed to the problem. Video reviews often lead to further delays and re-examinations of incidents, adding to the overall stoppage time.
The “Brazilian Foul” and its Consequences
A particularly contentious issue is the interpretation of fouls. Incidents that might be considered part of the game in other leagues – such as minor collisions when a player doesn’t immediately gain possession – are frequently penalized in Brazil. This “Brazilian foul,” as it’s sometimes called, contributes significantly to the increased number of stoppages.
An example highlighted recent matches: a collision between players from Flamengo and Botafogo, occurring *after* possession was lost, was still deemed a foul. This illustrates a tendency to err on the side of caution, even when the incident doesn’t warrant a stoppage.
VAR: A Double-Edged Sword
Even as VAR aims to correct clear and obvious errors, its implementation in Brazil has often resulted in more interruptions rather than fewer. The system frequently mirrors the on-field referee’s decisions, leading to redundant reviews and prolonged delays. This creates a cycle of stoppages, further diminishing the amount of time the ball is actually in play.
Pro Tip: Understanding the nuances of VAR implementation in different leagues can reveal how a technology designed to enhance the game can inadvertently detract from its flow.
What’s at Stake? The Essence of the Game
The reduction in playing time isn’t merely a statistical quirk. it fundamentally alters the nature of the game. Fewer opportunities for sustained possession, fewer chances for dynamic attacking plays, and a more fragmented spectacle all contribute to a less engaging experience for fans. Prioritizing frequent interruptions over the continuous flow of play undermines the core principles of football.
FAQ
Q: Is this a recent problem?
A: While the issue has been developing, recent data from the 2026 Série A season highlights a concerning acceleration of the trend.
Q: What is the “Brazilian foul”?
A: It refers to the tendency to call fouls for minor contact that might be considered part of the game in other leagues.
Q: Does VAR help or hurt the situation?
A: Currently, VAR implementation in Brazil appears to be contributing to the problem by adding further interruptions and delays.
Did you know? The average amount of time the ball is in play in top European leagues is often significantly higher than in Brazil, contributing to a faster and more dynamic style of play.
What are your thoughts on the increasing stoppages in Brazilian football? Share your opinions in the comments below and let’s discuss how to improve the game!
