How Long Is a Football Game? Understanding Match Duration

A standard professional football (soccer) game lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime break. This structure follows FIFA regulations and ensures a balanced, high-intensity experience for players and fans alike.

Regulation Time vs. Full Match Length

The actual playing time is 90 minutes, but when accounting for stoppage time—added by referees to compensate for injuries, substitutions, and time-wasting—games typically run between 95 and 100 minutes. Stoppage time averages 5 to 7 minutes, depending on match intensity.

Halftime Break Explained

Halftime lasts exactly 15 minutes, giving teams crucial time to rest, strategize, and adjust tactics. Fans use this period for restroom breaks, snacks, or following halftime analysis on TV or social media. It’s a brief but vital pause in the action.

Overtime and Extra Time Rules

If the match ends in a draw after 90 minutes, extra time begins—two 15-minute halves with no break. If still tied, penalty shootouts decide the winner. This format maintains fairness and excitement, aligning with FIFA’s standardized overtime rules introduced in recent years.

Global Variations and Local Formats

While 90 minutes plus stoppage time is universal in top leagues, some youth or regional games may shorten or extend durations. For example, U-17 matches sometimes use 80-minute official time, but this remains rare.

Why Duration Matters for Fans and Players

Understanding game length helps fans plan attendance or streaming schedules and supports better event organization. It also reflects modern football’s focus on athlete welfare, ensuring matches remain competitive yet sustainable.
In summary, a full football game, including regulation, halftime, and potential overtime, lasts roughly 100 minutes on average. Stay informed, plan your viewing, and enjoy every moment of the action—your next great football experience begins now.