Soccer-World Cup caused dangerous levels of fixture congestion, says FIFPRO

FILE PHOTO: Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 - Final - Argentina v France - Lusail Stadium, Lusail, Qatar - December 18, 2022 Argentina's Emiliano Martinez saves a penalty during the penalty shootout missed by France's Kingsley Coman REUTERS/Carl Recine

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Nearly half the players competing at last year's World Cup experienced extreme or increased mental fatigue during an unprecedented season of fixture congestion, according to international players' union FIFPRO.

Domestic leagues paused in November for the first mid-season World Cup, with players denied preparation time for the Qatar showpiece and many returning immediately to club competition.