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Explained in plain English

What is 'gamesmanship'?

Gamesmanship is the art of winning by using tactics that are technically within the rules, but push the boundaries of sportsmanship. Mexico fans using fireworks to disrupt England's sleep is a classic example, aiming for an unfair advantage without breaking any laws. It's about psychological warfare.

Stories that explain this

Mexico fans fail to wake England players with fireworks

Questions this opens up

What's 'sportsmanship' then? Is it always bad? Famous gamesmanship moments

Related explainers

Why do fans do this? What is FIFA's role? Who keeps players safe? What are noise complaints? What are other fan tactics? What is a 'riot gear'? Are there penalties for this? Is this a new tactic?

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