Rules & Regs

Football is governed globally by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), and the rules are officially known as the Laws of the Game. These rules are designed to ensure fairness, safety, and consistency in play. A standard football match is played between two teams, each consisting of a maximum of 11 players, including one goalkeeper. The main objective is to score more goals than the opposing team by getting the ball into the opponent’s net.

Duration of the Game

A standard match consists of two halves of 45 minutes each, with a 15-minute half-time break. The referee may add additional time, known as stoppage or injury time, to compensate for delays such as injuries, substitutions, or time-wasting.

The Ball and the Field

The game is played on a rectangular grass or artificial turf field with specific dimensions. The ball must be spherical, made of suitable material, and meet the size and weight specifications set by FIFA.

Starting and Restarting Play

Matches begin with a kick-off from the center circle. The same procedure is used to restart the game after a goal is scored or at the start of the second half. Play may also be restarted through throw-ins, goal kicks, corner kicks, and free kicks, depending on the circumstances.

Offside Rule

A player is in an offside position if they are nearer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second-last defender when the ball is played to them, unless they are in their own half or level with the second-last defender. Offside results in an indirect free kick for the defending team.

Fouls and Misconduct

Fouls occur when a player commits an unfair act against an opponent, such as kicking, tripping, pushing, or holding. Depending on the severity, the referee may award a direct free kick or penalty kick. Yellow cards serve as warnings for unsporting behavior or repeated infringements, while red cards are issued for serious foul play, violent conduct, or receiving two yellow cards in a game. A red card results in immediate dismissal and the player’s team must play with fewer players.

Free Kicks and Penalty Kicks

Free kicks may be direct or indirect, based on the nature of the foul. A direct free kick allows the player to score directly, while an indirect one requires the ball to touch another player first. Penalty kicks are awarded for fouls committed within the penalty area and are taken from the penalty spot with only the goalkeeper to beat.

Goalkeepers

The goalkeeper is the only player allowed to use their hands, but only within their own penalty area. They must release the ball within six seconds of gaining control and cannot pick up deliberate back-passes from teammates.

Winning the Game

The team that scores the most goals by the end of the match wins. If the score is tied, the result may be a draw, or the game may go into extra time or a penalty shootout, depending on the competition rules.

These fundamental rules promote fair play, skill, and enjoyment for players and spectators alike.