The Memphis Depay balancing act that’s led to a new law in Brazil

Players will be punished if they stand on the ball during football matches in Brazil, but what led to this controversial law change?

The decision by the Brazil Football Federation (CBF) came after Corinthians forward Memphis Depay performed the move in a game against Palmeiras which sparked a mass brawl between both teams.

The CBF has announced that players should be shown a yellow card if they stand on the ball with both feet and the opposing team awarded an indirect free-kick.

South American football expert Tim Vickery and BBC football reporter John Bennett joins World Football’s Ed Harry to discuss the law change and the reaction in Brazil.

Image: Kevin de Bruyne of Manchester City standing on a ball prior tothe UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between Manchester City and F.C. Copenhagen at Etihad Stadium on March 6, 2024 in Manchester, England.(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)