The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced refreshing breaks during the Africa Cup of Nations games, owing to the high temperatures expected in Egypt.
Teams will be given three-minute breaks in between games, coming in the 30th and 75th minutes, to allow players cool themselves down.
“The average (dry) temperature in June / July is expected to be between 35 ° C and 38 ° C, withan average humidity of 40% to 60%. This would give a high WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe) temperature above 32 ° C.It is certain that most teams will be aware of this and will train accordingly.At this level,” CAF said in a statement.
“FIFA recommends 3 minutes rest and refreshing breaksin the 30th and 75th minutes. These 3 minute breaks must be properly prepared in logistical terms, before the tournament and before each match and require the provision of cold containers on wheels to put crushed ice, drinks for referees and small towels cold and wet to place around the neck for 26 people (4 referees + 22 players) for minutes 30 and 75 if necessary. It will also be necessary to prepare for any eventuality of Emergencies,” the statement added.
Water breaks are common in football matches taking place in hot weathers. The breaks are important in avoiding any heat related complications among the players.
AFCON 2019 begins on Friday, with host Egypt taking on Zimbabwe.
The tournament will be the first held in the June-July window in conformity with the international football calendar. Previous editions were held in January-February.
The tournament will also be the first that has 24 teams participating, an increase from the previous editions that had only 16 teams.
