Semifinals and final: 30 minutes; all other matches extended to 40 minutes with potential extra time; penalty shootout if still tied.

Sun, 03 May 2026 02:16:21 +0000

Optimizing Tournament Scheduling: Why Semifinals and Finals at 30 Minutes (Expanded to 40 Minutes with Extra Time) Enhance the Global Stadium Experience --- Streamlining Semifinals and Finals: A Strategic Shift to 30-Minute Matches with Extended Play and Penalty Shootouts In the fast-evolving world of sports, scheduling plays a crucial role in maximizing fan engagement, athlete performance, and broadcast efficiency. A growing number of international tournaments—especially in football, rugby, and cricket—are rethinking traditional match formats by limiting semifinal and final durations to 30 minutes, with full 40-minute matches and penalty shootouts for decisive outcomes when needed. This article explores the rationale, benefits, and implications of this modern approach, particularly in high-stakes knockout stages.