Soccer Rules May 2026

Soccer (football) is governed by the . The objective is simple: get the ball completely across the opponent’s goal line using any part of the body except the hands and arms. 1. Basic Game Structure

: Awarded when the defending team kicks the ball over their own goal line. 3. Fouls and Misconduct Referees use cards to manage discipline: soccer rules

: Used for serious foul play or receiving two yellow cards; the player is sent off and cannot be replaced. Soccer (football) is governed by the

: Fields are typically 100–130 yards long and 50–100 yards wide. For international matches, dimensions are tighter: 110–120 yards long by 70–80 yards wide. 2. Restarts and In-Play Rules Basic Game Structure : Awarded when the defending

: Two 45-minute halves, totaling 90 minutes. Referees add "stoppage time" at the end of each half to account for delays (fouls, injuries, substitutions).

: Awarded when the attacking team kicks the ball over the opponent's goal line (not into the goal).

: Two teams of 11 players each, including one designated goalkeeper.