Virgil van Dijk Criticizes World Cup Hydration Breaks, Says Stoppages Disrupt Match Rhythm

Netherlands' Van Dijk not a fan of water breaks in World Cup

The Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has said stoppages during FIFA World Cup mandatory hydration break disrupt the rhythm of matches.

The defender said that three-minute water breaks that are compulsory midway through each half of matches could be counter productive.

"I have been watching almost every game and it's not really something I like," Van Dijk said after the Netherlands' 2-2 draw against Japan in their Group F opener.

The 34-year-old felt a shorter break instead of a prolonged stoppage could be the solution FIFA could consider after all-round criticism with many believing is aimed at increased advertisement revenue.

"You can easily have someone run onto the pitch with bottles, drink quickly and continue playing," he added.

The governing body has said the move was based on lessons learned from previous competitions and concerns over heat and player safety.