“How Long Is a Soccer Match? Everything You Need to Know!”

If you’ve ever wondered how long is a soccer match, you’re not alone! Soccer games usually last for 90 minutes, divided into two halves. Each half is 45 minutes long, but it’s important to know that the clock doesn’t stop for breaks like in other sports. The game keeps running, but there is something called “stoppage time” that the referee adds at the end of each half.

Stoppage time is added to make up for any delays during the game, like injuries or fouls. Sometimes, games can go a little longer than 90 minutes if there are many stoppages. Keep reading to learn more about how long a soccer match really lasts and how stoppage time and extra time work in different situations!

What Is the Standard Duration of a Soccer Match

A soccer match is generally played for 90 minutes, split into two halves. Each half lasts 45 minutes, making it easy to remember how long the game is. This standard length is the same across almost all leagues and tournaments.

However, the actual time of the match can be longer due to stoppage time. The clock in soccer runs continuously, meaning the referee adds extra time at the end of each half to make up for delays like injuries or fouls. While the clock keeps ticking, stoppage time is included at the end of each 45-minute period.

The match does not end until the referee blows the whistle after the stoppage time is completed. In most cases, this extra time is only a few minutes, but in rare situations, it could be longer.

Why Are Soccer Matches 90 Minutes Long

The 90-minute length for soccer matches has been in place for over a century. The first game that used this duration was a match between London and Sheffield in 1866. They agreed that 90 minutes was the right amount of time for a game.

It wasn’t until 1897 that the 90-minute rule was officially added to the laws of soccer by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). This has become the standard for all soccer games worldwide, whether professional or amateur.

How Long Is a Soccer Match with Stoppage Time

In regular soccer matches, the referee adds stoppage time at the end of each half to make up for time lost during the game. While the official duration of a match is 90 minutes, stoppage time can make the game last longer.

The length of stoppage time can vary. In most games, stoppage time is between 1 and 3 minutes. However, in cases where there are long delays, like injuries or player substitutions, stoppage time can go up to 5 or 10 minutes.

• Stoppage time is decided by the referee based on how much time was lost during the game.
• It ensures fair play by adding back the time lost to stoppages like fouls and injuries.

So, while most soccer matches last about 90 minutes, the referee’s decision on stoppage time could make the game run a little longer.

How Long Is Halftime in a Soccer Match

Halftime is an important part of every soccer match, and it usually lasts 15 minutes. This break happens between the two halves of the game, giving players a chance to rest and recover. During this time, coaches give instructions to their teams, and the players can get some refreshments.

Players must return to the field once the 15-minute halftime break is over. If they take too long, they could be penalized. So, everyone is expected to be back on the field and ready to play before the referee signals the start of the second half.

How Long Is Extra Time in Soccer Matches

Extra time is used in certain situations where a winner must be decided, such as knockout games or cup finals. If the score is tied after the regular 90 minutes, extra time is added to help determine a winner.

Extra time lasts for 30 minutes, split into two 15-minute halves. This gives both teams a chance to break the tie. If the score is still level after extra time, the match goes into a penalty shootout.

• First half of extra time: 15 minutes.
• Second half of extra time: 15 minutes.
• No stoppage time in extra time: The game clock runs continuously.

Extra time can feel intense because the players are tired after playing for 90 minutes already. But it’s an exciting way to find a winner in important matches!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the typical duration of a soccer match is 90 minutes, split into two halves of 45 minutes each. However, the actual time can be longer if stoppage time is added at the end of each half. The referee decides how much stoppage time is needed based on the delays during the game, like injuries or fouls. 

Soccer matches can also vary in length depending on the competition and age group. For example, youth soccer games are shorter to keep the kids engaged and energetic. Whether it’s a regular match or a high-stakes tournament, understanding how long a soccer match lasts helps you enjoy the game more. 

FAQs