How Long Are Soccer Games? A standard soccer game lasts for 90 minutes, but there’s more to the game length than just this. It is divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a break in between. However, soccer matches can sometimes last longer due to added time, also known as stoppage time. So, while the official game time is 90 minutes, the actual duration can vary.
The length of a soccer game can also change based on different situations, such as extra time or penalty shootouts in knockout rounds. This means the answer to how long are soccer games can depend on the match format. In this post, we will break down everything you need to know about the duration of a soccer game, from regular time to extra time and penalties.
How Long Are Soccer Games in Official Matches
A standard soccer match lasts 90 minutes. It is split into two halves of 45 minutes each. Between these two halves, there is a break called halftime, usually lasting around 15 minutes. During this time, players rest, drink water, and discuss strategies with their coaches.
So, when someone asks, “How long are soccer games?” the simple answer is 90 minutes. However, there are additional factors that can affect the total length of the match.
While the official game time is 90 minutes, the match can go longer depending on certain situations, like stoppage time. Stoppage time is added at the end of each half to account for delays during the game. These delays can include things like injuries, substitutions, or time-wasting.
Why Does Stoppage Time Affect How Long Soccer Games Last
In many soccer games, stoppage time is added at the end of each half. This happens because there are often pauses in the game due to injuries, substitutions, or other delays. It’s important to understand that stoppage time is not decided by the players or coaches but by the referee.
Stoppage time can be different in each match. If there’s a long injury delay, the referee might add more minutes. Usually, the referee will announce how much time will be added before the game restarts. This is why the total length of a match can sometimes be a little longer than 90 minutes.
Key points about stoppage time:
- Varies by match: Can be different depending on the game.
- Decided by the referee: Referee looks at how much time was lost.
- Usually short: Often only a few minutes are added, but can be more if there’s a big delay.
What Happens When Soccer Games Go into Extra Time
When a soccer match is tied after the normal 90 minutes, the game may go into extra time. This happens in knockout rounds or tournaments where a winner must be decided. Extra time is made up of two 15-minute halves.
After the regular 90 minutes, extra time is played. The first 15 minutes is played without a break, then there’s a short rest, and the second 15 minutes begins. If the score is still tied after extra time, the game may go to a penalty shootout to decide the winner.
- Total extra time: 30 minutes (two 15-minute halves)
- No rest between halves: Just a short break in between.
- Penalties: If the score is still tied, penalties decide the winner.
How Long Are Soccer Games During Tournaments and Knockout Rounds
In tournaments, knockout rounds, or during important matches, soccer games can last longer than regular ones. This is because, if the score is tied after the regular 90 minutes, the match moves into extra time.
In knockout rounds, there is no option for a draw. So, if the score is tied after extra time, the game goes to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. This extra step makes the match longer than just the usual 90 minutes.
Key Points in Tournament Games:
- Normal game time: 90 minutes (two halves of 45 minutes each)
- Extra time: 30 minutes (two 15-minute halves)
- Penalty shootouts: Decides the winner if the score is still tied
Are Soccer Games the Same Length in Different Leagues
The length of a soccer game can be the same in most leagues around the world, but some leagues may have special rules. For example, in youth leagues or amateur leagues, the game duration can be shorter.
Professional leagues like the English Premier League or La Liga follow the standard 90-minute format. However, youth games usually have shorter halves, such as two 30-minute halves, because younger players have different needs compared to professionals.
- Professional games: Always 90 minutes.
- Youth or amateur leagues: Can be shorter, like 60 minutes or 70 minutes.
- International matches: Always follow the 90-minute format.
How Long Are Soccer Games for Kids and Youth Leagues
In youth leagues, the length of a soccer game can differ depending on the age group. For example, younger kids often play shorter matches to keep them from getting too tired. As the kids grow older and get more experienced, the game length increases.
For children under 8 years old, games might only be two 20-minute halves. This helps keep them focused and energetic throughout the match. For kids between 9 and 12 years old, the game length usually increases to two 30-minute halves.
Game Length by Age Group:
- Under 8 years: Two 20-minute halves.
- 9 to 12 years: Two 30-minute halves.
- 12 years and older: Usually two 35-minute or 40-minute halves.
Conclusion
In how long are soccer games is a simple question, but the answer can vary depending on the situation. Most soccer games last 90 minutes divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a break in between. However, stoppage time, extra time, and penalties can make a match longer. It’s always good to know that soccer games might last a bit more than you expect!
So, the next time you watch a game or play in one, you’ll know that a standard match is 90 minutes, but it could stretch longer due to extra time or stoppage time. Understanding this will help you enjoy the game even more and know exactly when to expect the final whistle!
FAQs
Q: How long are soccer games?
A: A standard soccer game lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves, with a break in between.
Q: What is stoppage time in soccer?
A: Stoppage time is added to the end of each half to make up for delays like injuries or substitutions.
Q: How long is extra time in soccer?
A: Extra time lasts 30 minutes, divided into two 15-minute halves if the score is tied after the regular 90 minutes.
Q: How long do soccer games last in youth leagues?
A: Youth league games are usually shorter, like two 30-minute halves for players aged 9 to 12.
Q: Do all soccer games have penalties?
A: No, penalties only happen if the game is tied after extra time in knockout rounds or tournaments.
