Introduction
Soccer, also known as football in most parts of the world, is the most popular sport globally. Whether you’re a player, a coach, or a fan, understanding the core rules of the game is crucial. In this article, SoccerBallClub breaks down the 10 key rules for soccer that define the beautiful game.
Let’s dive into the basics every soccer enthusiast should know.
The Objective of the Game
The main objective of soccer is simple: score more goals than your opponent within the match’s designated time.
- Each goal is worth one point.
- The team with the most goals at the end wins.
Number of Players on the Field
- Each team must have 11 players on the field, including 1 goalkeeper.
- A team must have at least 7 players to start or continue a match.
The Duration of a Match
- A standard match lasts 90 minutes divided into two 45-minute halves.
- There’s a 15-minute halftime break.
- Referees may add stoppage time for injuries or delays.
Starting and Restarting Play
- The game begins with a kickoff at the center of the field.
- Play restarts after a goal, halftime, or when the referee signals.
- Other restarts include throw-ins, goal kicks, corner kicks, and free kicks.
The Offside Rule
- A player is offside 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’re in their half of the field.
- The offside rule prevents “goal-hanging.”
Fouls and Misconduct
- Actions like tripping, pushing, handballing, or dangerous play are fouls.
- Fouls may result in free kicks, penalty kicks, or disciplinary cards (yellow/red).
- Serious misconduct can lead to ejection from the game.
Free Kicks and Penalty Kicks
- Free Kick: Awarded for fouls or rule infractions.
- Direct: Can score directly.
- Indirect: Must touch another player first.
- Penalty Kick: Awarded when a foul occurs inside the penalty box.
- Taken from 12 yards out with only the goalkeeper to beat.
Throw-ins, Goal Kicks, and Corner Kicks
- Throw-In: Awarded when the ball crosses the sideline. Taken by the team opposite of the one that last touched the ball.
- Goal Kick: Awarded when the opposing team kicks the ball over the defending team’s goal line (but not scoring).
- Corner Kick: Awarded when the defending team sends the ball over their own goal line.
The Role of the Referee
- The referee enforces the rules, makes calls on fouls, and manages the game flow.
- Assisted by assistant referees (linesmen) and, in many leagues, VAR (Video Assistant Referee).
Winning the Game
- The team with the most goals at full time wins.
- In knockout stages or tournaments:
- Extra time may be played if tied.
- Penalty shootouts decide the winner if still tied.
Final Thoughts
Knowing these 10 rules for soccer helps players perform better, fans enjoy the game more, and coaches develop smarter strategies. Soccer may seem simple, but the intricacies of its rules make it the exciting, dynamic sport loved worldwide.
At SoccerBallClub, we’re passionate about soccer education — whether it’s the rules of the game or the best gear for play.