Understanding all the rules of the Kings World Cup in Mexico

The crazy rules of the Kings World Cup in Mexico

The matches: a unique experience

Every match of the Kings World Cup plays in two 20-minute halves. Here are the key points to understand how a match is played:

⏱️ Match duration :

Two 20-minute halves. This shorter duration keeps the pace high and ensures that every minute counts, making matches more intense and dynamic than traditional 90-minute matches.

🕹️ Start of matches :

The ball is released from a cage 5 meters high in the middle of the pitch. Players run to retrieve it, adding an element of surprise from the kick-off and an instant dose of adrenalin. This unique start replaces the traditional kick-off and ensures that the action begins immediately.

👥 Chairmen :

Team presidents can take a "president's" penalty kick at any time between the 5th and 18th minute of the first half, or between the 20th and 38th minute of the second half. This adds a layer of strategy, as the timing of this penalty can change the course of the match. For example, taking a penalty when the opposing team is weakened or demoralized can maximize the chances of scoring. The president can also choose to let a player from his team take the penalty, which will then be in the form of a face-off, more difficult than a normal penalty. And this could be a good idea, given the failures observed during the second day with Amine.

🔄 Changes :

Teams can make substitutions from the 5th minute onwards. This rule allows for rapid rotation of players, which is important in a high-intensity format such as this.

⚖️ End of matches :

In the event of a tie at the end of regulation time, a penalty shootout (MLS-style) determines the winner. Unlike extra time, this format ensures a quick and exciting resolution to the match.

Secret cards: strategic bonuses

Secret cards are a key element of the Kings World Cup, adding a unique strategic dimension to each match. Strategy cards are drawn at random by the coaches before the start of the match, and can be used at any time.

Hazard reaction is priceless 👀#KingsWorldCup pic.twitter.com/D9wP4JsICv

- Kings League World (@_KingsWorld) May 29, 2024

Here are the different cards and their effects:

🃏 Gol Double card :

For 4 minutes, goals count double. Using this card at the right moment can radically change the score of a match, especially if one team is dominating the game.

🚫 "Sanction" card :

Temporary exclusion of an opposing player for 4 minutes (except goalkeeper). This card can be used to disadvantage the opposing team during a critical phase of the match, offering a temporary numerical advantage.

⚽ Penalty card :

Standard penalty. A penalty is always a golden opportunity to score, and this card allows you to create that opportunity strategically.

⭐ Star player card :

The first goal scored by a player designated by his coach counts double. The player wears an identification armband, which adds extra pressure and focus for the opposing defense.

🔄 Comodín card :

Use any of the cards described above or steal an opponent's card. This versatile card offers maximum strategic flexibility, allowing you to adapt to the evolution of the match.

Minute by minute: suspenseful progress

Kings World Cup matches are designed to maximize excitement and suspense. Here are the key moments:

⏱️ Min 00 :

The ball falls from the cage to the center of the field. Players must recover it and pass backwards to maintain possession. This starting rule ensures that each team has a fair chance from the outset.

⏱️ Min 00 to 05 :

The game begins with 1-on-1 goalkeeping. Every minute, an additional player joins the game until the teams are complete (7 vs. 7). This gradual start makes the first few minutes of the game particularly dynamic and strategic.

⏱️ Min 18 :

A die is rolled from the stands to determine the number of players per team until half-time. This unpredictable rule can upset teams' plans and adds an element of luck to the game.

⏱️ Min 20 :

The second half begins with all players (except those sanctioned) on the pitch. This marks a return to normality after the fluctuations of the first half.

⏱️ Min 38 to 40 :

If the score is tied, the first goal scored wins the match (golden goal). Goals scored during this period count double. This rule guarantees a thrilling end to the match and encourages teams to attack aggressively.