How Long Is a Soccer Game?
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world. But have you ever wondered how long a soccer game actually lasts?
Length of Regulation Time
The length of a soccer match is determined by the rules of the specific competition. For most games, the length of regulation time (playtime) is:
- 90 minutes — divided into two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime intermission
- 80 minutes — in some lower-level competitions, the length of regulation time can be 80 minutes, divided into two 40-minute halves with a 10-minute halftime intermission
Extended Playtime
In some competitions, extended playtime, also known as extra time, is used when the game ends in a tie to decide a winner. If the game is still tied after the extended playtime, a penalty shoot-out may occur to determine a winner. The length of extended playtime depends on the specific competition, but generally is:
- 30 minutes — two 15-minute halves with an additional 15-minute halftime
- 20 minutes — two 10-minute halves with an additional 10-minute halftime
Summary
The length of regulation time for a soccer match is 90 minutes, divided into two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime intermission. In some competitions, the length of regulation time is 80 minutes with a 10-minute halftime. In some competitions, extended playtime can occur if the game ends in a tie, which is usually 30 minutes (two 15-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime) or 20 minutes (two 10-minute halves with a 10-minute halftime).
