Soccer is a sport that may seem complex but boasts simple rules for both kids and adults. At its core, the objective is clear: place the ball into the opposing team’s goal. However, there are a few additional rules worth knowing.
As the level of play ascends, soccer rules may become more intricate and technical. Yet, even at the professional level, they remain fundamentally straightforward. The International Federation of Football (FIFA) presides over the official regulations of the game. According to FIFA, these rules can be adapted for players under 16 years of age, female soccer players, veteran players (over 35 years of age), and players with disabilities.
The following modifications are permissible:
- Field Size
- Ball Size
- Goal Dimensions
- Game Duration
- Substitutions
Field Size: A soccer field must be rectangular, with its dimensions influenced by the number of players on each side and the size of the goals. Achieving the right balance is essential to keep the ball in play while engaging all participants. For true international competition in 11-a-side matches, the field must adhere to these dimensions:
- Length: Minimum 100 meters (110 yards), Maximum 110 meters (120 yards)
- Width: Minimum 64 meters (70 yards), Maximum 75 meters (80 yards)
For a 5-a-side soccer experience, it’s recommended to use futsal regulation size dimensions for a dynamic, technical game. Specific field dimensions based on age and group size can be found on our Soccer Field Layout page. The U.S. Soccer Federation also provides a chart with regulation field sizes.
Ball Size: The appropriate ball size depends on the age group. Here are the basic soccer rules regarding ball sizes:
- 3-5 years old: Size 4
- 6-12 years old: Size 4 (up to age 11-12)
- 12 years old to adult: Size 5
Players: Soccer is played by two teams, ideally with an equal number of players. The maximum number of players per team is 11, consisting of a goalkeeper and 10 field players. However, team sizes can vary by age, with some youth leagues playing with 8 players for those aged ten and under, and as few as 6 players per side for under 5s. For optimal development, we recommend adhering to futsal rules and playing 5-a-side soccer.
Substitutions: Officially, teams are allowed 3 substitutions per game, although this may vary based on modified rules. Youth leagues often have no substitution cap. Substitutions can only occur when the ball is out of play and your team possesses it. For example, during a throw-in or goal kick. Different rules apply in futsal.
Starting the Game: The match commences at the center of the field. The team that kicks off passes the ball to a teammate upon the referee’s signal. Since 2016, the ball can be passed in any direction at kick-off. The opposing team must not enter the center circle until the kicking team begins.
Game Rules
Game in Play: The game remains active as long as the ball stays within the field boundaries, except when the referee blows the whistle for infractions or offside. The ball is considered in play as long as it is within the end lines and sidelines, even if it touches these lines. Contact with the goal post, corner flag, and referee on the field is also considered in play.
GOAL: To score a goal, the ball must cross the goal line completely. If the ball remains in contact with the end line, even on the inner part of the goal, it is not considered a goal. Goal line technology is now used at the professional level to ensure accurate goal decisions.
Game Duration: In basic soccer rules, a game lasts no longer than 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a 15-minute halftime break. Youth games typically have shorter halves, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, and shorter halftime breaks of 7 to 10 minutes.
NO HANDS! Only the goalkeeper is allowed to use their hands, but there are strict guidelines on what constitutes a handball. This rule also includes restrictions on the goalkeeper’s use of their hands when receiving backpasses.
Basic Soccer Rules
Ball Out of Play (Out of Bounds): If the ball crosses the sideline, a throw-in is awarded to the team that did not touch the ball last. Crossing the end line can result in either a corner kick or a goal kick, depending on which team touched the ball last.
Outcome of the Match: A soccer match typically concludes with a win, loss, or draw. A win occurs when one team has more goals than the other at the end of the match, while a draw signifies equal goal counts. In tournaments or deciding matches like the World Cup semi-finals, a draw may lead to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout.
Offsides: The offside rule can be challenging to grasp. It applies only to attacking players and considers their positioning concerning the ball and the second-to-last opponent when the ball is played to them. The introduction of Video Assisted Refereeing (VAR) has brought new scrutiny to offside decisions, impacting the flow of the game.
Fouls and Misconduct: Referees enforce infractions and misconduct, which can lead to various consequences, including direct and indirect kicks, and yellow and red cards. Common misconduct behaviors include fouls, handballs, and unsportsmanlike conduct.
Free Kicks: Two types of free kicks exist in soccer: indirect and direct. The choice depends on the severity of the foul. Indirect kicks require the ball to touch another player before a goal can be scored, whereas direct kicks permit immediate goal attempts.
The Penalty Kick: Awarded for fouls committed inside the 18-yard penalty box, a penalty kick occurs from the penalty spot, 12 yards from the goal line. The shooter must strike the ball in one forward motion without a double touch, and the goalkeeper must remain on the goal line until the kick is taken.
The Throw-In: When the ball goes out of bounds on the side or touchline, a throw-in is granted. The sideline assistant referee indicates which team receives the throw-in. No offsides apply, and direct goals from throw-ins are not allowed.
Goal Kicks: Goal kicks are awarded when the attacking team last touches the ball before it crosses the goal line. The ball can now be played to a teammate inside the 18-yard box, a rule change from prior years. Opposing players are not allowed inside the 18-yard box during the kick.
Corner Kicks: Awarded when the defending team last touches the ball before it crosses their goal line, corner kicks must be taken from the designated area. These are direct kicks and can result in a goal without touching another player. The nearest defender must be at least 9.15 meters (10 yards) away from the corner.
Basic Soccer Rules for Kids
Soccer for children aged 3 to 10 should prioritize simplicity and enjoyment. Don’t burden young players with overly technical rules that apply mainly to competitive play. Let the game be exploratory, fluid, and fun. While rules will become more important as players mature, be selective about when and how to enforce them.
Now that you’re familiar with the basic soccer rules, consider exploring fundamental soccer skills for your age group. Visit our “How to Play Soccer” page for guidance on achieving soccer milestones.
Originally posted 2023-09-15 01:42:24.
