In the France vs Belgium Nations League semi-final, the commentator has noted that France are desperate for half-time. This is because Belgium scored two quick goals and were pushing for a third so the French team was under pressure and needed to re-group during the break. The half-time break would also break the Belgian's rhythm.

A team can be desperate for the half-time whistle which means the same thing; the team under pressure is hoping the referee blows their whistle so they can take a break and ease the pressure.