How long are soccer games?

So, how long are soccer games? Soccer, also known as football in many parts of the world, is a popular sport played by millions around the globe. It is a game that is loved for its simplicity, yet its complexities make it exciting to watch. One question often arises among people new to the sport is, “How long are soccer games?” In this article, we will explore the answer to that question and delve into why soccer games are the length they are.st block of text...

How long are soccer games, exactly? 

How long is a soccer match

In most cases, a soccer game lasts for about 90 minutes. However, this time can be extended due to several factors. For example, extra time may be added if the game ends in a draw and the result is needed. In knockout competitions like the World Cup, additional time is usually played if the match results in a tie after 90 minutes. The extra time is usually 30 minutes, split into two 15-minute halves. If the game is still tied after extra time, the match may be decided by a penalty shootout.

The 90-minute length of a soccer game is divided into two halves, each lasting 45 minutes. During these 45 minutes, the clock runs continuously, except in certain circumstances, such as when the referee stops the clock for injuries or when a goal is scored. The two halves are separated by a short break, typically lasting 15 minutes. This break is known as halftime, and it is an opportunity for players to rest and for coaches to make any necessary changes to their tactics.

So, why do soccer games last for 90 minutes?

The answer lies in the history of the sport. The 90-minute length of a soccer game was established in the late 1800s, at a time when the sport was still in its early stages of development. At that time, the game was typically played in two 45-minute halves, with a break in between. The reasons for this length are not entirely clear, but it is believed that it was based on the length of a typical working day, which was eight hours. The game was seen as a leisure activity, and so it was designed to fit within the working day.


Since then, the 90-minute length of a soccer game has become standard, and it is used in almost all professional and amateur soccer competitions worldwide. The length of the game is seen as an important part of the sport’s identity, and it is unlikely to change anytime soon.

One of the benefits of the 90-minute length of a soccer game is that it allows for a fair and balanced competition. With two equal halves, each team has the opportunity to play on a level playing field. This means that the team that performs better over the course of the 90 minutes is more likely to come out on top.


Another benefit of the 90-minute length of a soccer game is that it allows for a high level of intensity and excitement. With only 90 minutes to play, teams need to be at their best from the outset, and there is little room for error. This means that players need to be focused and disciplined throughout the game, and this often leads to some of the most thrilling moments in sports.

Soccer games can seem long, but the beauty of the sport is in following the play and understanding the struggles the teams face as a team and individually. You see, the match is both global and analytical. Global in that two teams are playing each other. Analytical in that eleven players are on both sides against an opposing player tasked to prevent and battle against their opposing player in the same position. The match's length is relatively short if you consider the number of times a player engages with the ball during the 90 minutes. Yes, there are playing styles that play is quite dull. Soccer, like anything, is a bit subjective, and when the win matters, the spectacle matters second.

Nonetheless, the duals on the pitch in those moments are pretty exciting. My best advice for new soccer fans is to follow along with what is happening and try to consider what the player with the ball should do. Soccer is simple. You can only do three things with the ball: Pass, shoot, and/or dribble.

In conclusion, soccer games typically last for 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each. The length of the game has remained unchanged for over a century, and it is seen as an important part of the sport's identity. The 90-minute length allows for a fair and balanced competition and a high level of intensity and excitement. While the length of the game may seem short compared to other sports, such as American football or basketball, soccer's simplicity, and elegance make it a sport that is loved by millions around the world.

Here are some extra resources and official links to rules 

FIFA Rules 

Wikipedia rules 

Soccer match duration