World Cup hydration breaks: How long are they? Are they good or bad for the matches?

If there is one thing this year's World Cup is being remembered for, it's the newly introduced hydration breaks. 

With the tournament taking place across the US, Canada, and Mexico, every match is set to be played under scorching temperatures, which has led to concerns surrounding player welfare. 

As a result, hydration breaks were implemented, but it's safe to say that there is a mixed response when they have been put into practice so far at the world's biggest football tournament. 

DAZN News explains everything you need to know about the hydration breaks and whether they are good or bad for the matches. 

How long are the hydration breaks? When do they take place? 

There will be one hydration break in each half of World Cup matches, and they will last for three minutes. 

These breaks will take place 22 minutes into each half, with the referee stopping the match. 

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The breaks will take place regardless of the individual conditions for each match, so they will be used at matches at the Dallas, Houston, Atlanta and Vancouver Stadiums, despite them being indoors. 

What are the benefits of hydration breaks? 

The first big benefit of the hydration breaks is that it allows the players a brief rest period in what will be demanding conditions. For many players, the high temperatures will be something that they are not used to. 

The breaks also serve as a chance for managers and coaching staff to quickly assess their players and give out any tactical instructions, but this is a double-edged sword. 

What are the problems with hydration breaks? 

So far, there appear to be more problems than advantages when it comes to the hydration breaks. 

First of all, the pause in play can work against a team's momentum. Sunday's match between Germany and Curacao was a prime example. 

Curacao shocked the world and equalised against Germany in the 21st minute, and then created plenty a number of chances shortly after.. 

However, the first half hydration break brought an abrupt halt to Curacao's momentum, and in the end went on to lose the match 7-1. 

This has become a common criticism with several teams on the ascendancy suffering a drop off after drinks have been taken on board. 

Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has been the first high-profile name to give his views on the hydration breaks, and while he remains unsure about them, he believes every match needs to be an individual case when it comes to whether they should be used or not. 

"Hydration breaks are a bit interesting because I was obviously watching almost all the games up until today, and every time going into a commercial, I don’t know if I like it," Van Dijk said.

"I think for the neutral watchers on TV, it’s also not great.

"So, if it’s really hot, obviously it will be good to put them in, but I think you have to look at it in every game separately, in my opinion.

"But I think I’ve said enough already for that."

Those watching the World Cup on television have also not been afraid to voice their negativity, with the breaks stopping the flow of a match. 

Depending on where fans are watching the matches, these breaks are being filled with adverts, meaning that, despite both teams being ready to play, referees have to wait until the advert breaks have finished before resuming the match. 

Will hydration breaks stay in football? 

The hydration breaks are certainly here to stay in the World Cup, but it is an eyebrow raiser when it comes to the matches taking place at indoor stadiums, with some members of the media inside claiming that they feel cold due to the air conditioning. 

It's unlikely that these hydration breaks will find their way into club football, but do not be surprised if these become more common in major international tournaments, especially in future World Cups. 

The next instalment of the World Cup in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, and the 2034 edition in Saudi Arabia are countries known for their hot climates in the summer, so it would not be a shock if hydration breaks are here to stay in football's greatest show.

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