How many minutes in a soccer game? This is a question many new fans ask when they first watch a match. The simple answer is 90 minutes of gameplay, but there’s more to it than just that. Soccer matches include extra time, halftime, and sometimes even overtime.
In this post, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how long soccer games really are. We’ll also cover topics like added time, overtime, and what happens during halftime. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect when watching a soccer match.
How Many Minutes in a Soccer Game: A Quick Overview
A soccer game typically lasts for 90 minutes. This time is divided into two halves, each lasting 45 minutes. After the first 45 minutes, there is a short break called halftime, which usually lasts for 15 minutes.
However, the total time of the match can be longer than 90 minutes. This happens because the referee may add extra time at the end of each half. This is called added time. Added time is used to make up for any delays that happened during the game, like injuries or stoppages.
So, when you’re watching a soccer match, keep in mind that the game may run past 90 minutes, especially if there are stoppages. This makes soccer different from sports that have timeouts or break periods during the game.
Why Soccer Games Are 90 Minutes Long
The reason soccer games are 90 minutes long goes back to the history of the sport. The rules were created many years ago, and they have stayed the same since then. According to the official rules, the game is played in two equal halves of 45 minutes each.
This format ensures that teams have enough time to show their skills but also not too much time where the game could become too long. The game is timed to keep it fair and exciting for both teams.
In professional matches, such as the World Cup or the Olympics, the 90-minute rule is followed. No matter where the game is played, the two 45-minute halves remain the same for men’s and women’s soccer.
Understanding Added Time in Soccer Matches
In soccer, the clock never stops running, even when there is a break in play. So, how does the game make up for lost time? This is where added time comes in. The referee adds extra minutes to the end of each half to make up for time lost due to events like injuries or delays.
Common reasons for added time include:
- Injury stoppages
- Substitutions
- Wasting time
- Video Assistant Referee (VAR) checks
The added time can vary depending on the situation. The referee decides how many minutes should be added, and it can be more or less than expected. For example, if a player is hurt, the referee might add a few minutes to the end of the game to make up for that delay.
What Happens During Halftime in a Soccer Game?
Halftime in a soccer match lasts for 15 minutes. During this break, players rest, drink water, and listen to their coaches’ advice. This time helps players recover after running around for 45 minutes.
The break also allows coaches to plan the second half of the game. They might decide to make substitutions, which means replacing one player with another. This gives fresh energy to the team.
The 15-minute halftime is usually the same in every match, whether it’s a World Cup game or a regular club match. However, if the teams are ready before the 15 minutes are up, the game can start early.
Do Soccer Games Always End After 90 Minutes?
In most soccer games, the game ends after the usual 90 minutes of play. But if the match is tied after 90 minutes, extra time can be played. This happens in important tournaments, like the World Cup or Olympic Games, where a winner must be determined.
When the game goes into overtime, it’s played in two 15-minute periods. If the score is still tied after these extra 30 minutes, then the game moves into a penalty shootout. This is when each team takes turns kicking a ball to score goals, and the first team to score more goals wins.
How Overtime Works in Soccer Tournaments
In regular soccer games, if the match ends in a tie after 90 minutes, the game is over. However, in tournament play, like the World Cup or the Olympics, extra time is played if the game is tied. This is called overtime.
Overtime is made up of two 15-minute periods, giving both teams a chance to score more goals. If the match is still tied after overtime, a penalty shootout decides the winner.
Key Features of Overtime in Soccer
- Two 15-minute periods
- No halftime break between the periods, just a short drinks break
- Penalty shootout if still tied after overtime
In most tournaments, this is the only way to decide who wins when the game is tied after 90 minutes.
How Long Is Halftime, and What Do Teams Do During It?
Halftime lasts for 15 minutes in most soccer matches. This is an important time for players to rest and prepare for the second half of the game. Teams also discuss their performance, make changes to their strategy, and sometimes make substitutions.
During halftime, players also rehydrate and get a quick break from all the running. This allows them to have more energy for the second half.
- Resting and hydrating
- Coach’s advice and strategy
- Substitutions if needed
After the break, the game continues with the teams switching sides of the field.
Conclusion
A soccer match goes on for an hour and a half, separated into equal parts of 45 minutes each. There is a 15-minute halftime break where players rest and get ready for the second half. The game can last longer if there is added time, which the referee decides based on stoppages during the game. So, while the clock says 90 minutes, it can sometimes go a little beyond that.
Soccer is a fast-paced and exciting sport, and understanding how long a game lasts helps you enjoy it even more. Whether you’re watching a professional match or playing with friends, knowing the rules about game time and breaks makes the experience better. Remember, if the game is tied, extra time and penalty shootouts can decide the winner!
FAQs
Q: How long is a soccer game?
A: A regular soccer game is 90 minutes, split into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a 15-minute halftime.
Q: What happens if the game is tied after 90 minutes?
A: If the game is tied, extra time (two 15-minute periods) is played, and if needed, a penalty shootout decides the winner.
Q: How long is the halftime break in soccer?
A: The halftime break lasts for 15 minutes, giving players time to rest and discuss strategies.
Q: Does the game time include breaks for injuries or stoppages?
A: No, the game clock keeps running during stoppages, but the referee adds added time to make up for lost minutes.
Q: Can a soccer game be shorter than 90 minutes?
A: No, soccer games are always at least 90 minutes, but they can be longer if added time or extra time is needed.
