How long does a football game last?
Football is a popular sport played in over 200 countries across the globe. Ever since its modern formation in the 19th century, the game has been growing in popularity and is now the world’s most popular team sport. Given the immense popularity of the game, you may be asking yourself “How long does a football game last?”.
Regulation Time
The duration of a standard football game is 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves. The 45-minute halves are separated by an intermission, which is usually 15 minutes but can be shorter in youth or amateur leagues. Taking into account stoppage time to account for injuries, ball out of bounds and substitutions, the average football match usually runs for about 2 hours.
Extended Time
Extended time periods could be added during cup matches or finals. Should the game reach a draw at the end of 90 minutes, extra-time would be played in two 15 minute periods. As with the regulation time, stoppage time will be accounted for. Should the teams remain level after extra-time, the game would be decided by a penalty shoot-out.
Specific League Times
The duration of a match may vary depending on the specific league in question. For instance –
- NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer: Regulation time = 110 minutes (Two 45 minute halves with two 15 minute extra times).
- UEFA Champions League: Regulation time = 105 minutes (Two 45 minute halves with two 15 minute extra times).
- FIFA World Cup: Regulation time = 90 minutes (Two 45 minute halves).
- Major League Soccer (MLS): Regulation time = 95 minutes (Two 45 minute halves with one 5 minute extra time).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the duration of a football match may vary depending on the specific league and tournament in question, however the average duration of a match is typically around 90 minutes plus stoppage time. Extended time periods could be played in cup matches and if necessary, a penalty shoot-out would be used to determine a winner.
