Soccer, known as football outside the U.S., is one of the most popular sports in the world. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a seasoned player, understanding the rules of soccer is crucial for enjoying the game. However, with so many different rules, it can sometimes be confusing, especially when you’re just starting out. That’s where the “17 Laws of Soccer” come into play.
These 17 laws are the foundation of the game, and they govern everything from how a match is played to what happens when a foul occurs. But what exactly are these laws? And how do they affect the game on the pitch? Let’s take a closer look at what these laws mean and how they shape the beautiful game we all love.
In this article, we’ll explore each of the 17 laws, break down the important details, and provide examples of how they’re applied during a match. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes soccer so unique and why these laws are vital to fair play. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of soccer’s 17 laws.
The 17 Laws of Soccer: An Overview
The 17 Laws of Soccer are officially defined by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). These laws cover everything from the kickoff, the offside rule, fouls, and penalties, to the basic setup of the game itself. While these rules may seem overwhelming at first, they are crucial for ensuring that the game is played fairly and consistently, no matter where it’s being played.
Let’s take a closer look at each law and break them down into simpler terms so that you can understand what they really mean in the context of a match.
Law 1: The Field of Play
Law 1 is all about the playing field itself. It outlines the dimensions and markings that must be present on a soccer field. According to this law, the field should be rectangular and divided into two halves. The exact dimensions can vary, but the length should be between 100-110 meters, and the width should be between 64-75 meters. However, most professional fields fall into the range of 100 to 110 meters in length and 64 to 75 meters in width.
In addition to these basic dimensions, the field must be clearly marked with lines for the goal area, penalty area, and center circle, among others. The center circle is especially important because it marks the spot where the game begins, and players must be positioned outside of it at kick-off.
Helpful Hint:
If you’re ever unsure whether a field is regulation-sized, keep in mind that most professional soccer fields are within the standard length and width range, but they can vary slightly from stadium to stadium. Always check the field dimensions before a match to avoid confusion!
Law 2: The Ball
Law 2 specifies the size, weight, and material requirements for the ball. A standard soccer ball should be made of leather or other suitable materials. It should have a circumference between 68-70 cm and weigh between 410-450 grams. The ball must also be spherical in shape and not too light or heavy.
This law ensures that the ball used in all professional matches is of consistent quality, so players can rely on the ball’s performance. The ball’s size also affects how it moves on the pitch, which is important for skill development and the overall flow of the game.
Law 3: The Number of Players
According to Law 3, each team can have no more than 11 players on the field at a time, including the goalkeeper. One of the 11 players must be a goalkeeper, whose role is to protect the team’s goal. Substitutions are also allowed, but the exact number depends on the competition rules.
In official matches, the maximum number of substitutes is typically three, although some competitions allow up to five substitutes, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Teams can make substitutions during stoppages in play, but once a player is substituted out, they cannot re-enter the game.
Helpful Hint:
When playing soccer, always make sure to have enough players for your team to remain competitive. If you’re playing casually, you can adjust the number of players depending on the size of the field, but in professional settings, sticking to the standard number of 11 per team is essential for fairness.
Law 4: The Players’ Equipment
Law 4 outlines what players must wear to participate in a soccer match. The standard gear includes a jersey, shorts, socks, shin guards, and shoes. The law also specifies that players must wear shin guards to protect their legs from injury during tackles and contact with the ball.
While most equipment requirements are straightforward, there are some exceptions, such as wearing glasses or a headband for players who need them. In these cases, the equipment must be deemed safe and not pose any danger to other players.
Law 5: The Referee
Every soccer match is overseen by a referee, who is responsible for enforcing the laws of the game. Law 5 defines the referee’s role and authority on the field. The referee has full control of the match, including making decisions on fouls, goals, and game stoppages. The referee can also issue yellow and red cards to players who commit fouls or display unsporting behavior.
In addition to the main referee, there are typically two assistant referees (linesmen) who help with offside decisions and managing the offside rule. These officials work together to make sure the match is fair and that the rules are followed to the letter.
Helpful Hint:
When watching a soccer match, remember that the referee’s decisions are final. While it’s tempting to argue, respect for the referee’s judgment is a key part of sportsmanship. Always stay focused on the game and trust the officials to make the right call.
Law 6: The Assistant Referees
Law 6 explains the role of the assistant referees, commonly known as the linesmen. These officials assist the main referee by monitoring specific areas of the field, such as the offside rule and corner kicks. They also help ensure that the game is played fairly by signaling fouls, throw-ins, and other violations of the rules.
While the referee has the final say, the assistant referees play an important role in making sure that all laws are enforced. Their job can be challenging, especially when it comes to offside decisions, but their input is invaluable in maintaining fairness on the field.
Law 7: The Duration of the Match
Law 7 establishes the length of a standard soccer match. A professional soccer match is played in two 45-minute halves, with a 15-minute halftime interval. The clock runs continuously, and any stoppage time (added time) is determined by the referee to account for delays such as injuries, substitutions, or other interruptions during play.
If the match is tied after 90 minutes in certain competitions, additional extra time and penalty shootouts may be required to determine the winner. The exact duration of the match may vary depending on the rules of the competition, but the 90-minute standard is almost universally accepted.
Law 8: The Start and Restart of Play
Law 8 covers how the game is started and restarted. The game begins with a kickoff from the center circle, and after a goal is scored, play is restarted with a kickoff from the center spot. The team that concedes the goal takes the next kick-off.
Kickoffs must be taken from the center spot, and the ball must be passed forward. Players must stay outside the center circle until the ball is kicked. This law ensures that the game starts and restarts in a fair and consistent manner, giving both teams a chance to compete from the same starting point after each goal.
Law 9: The Ball In and Out of Play
According to Law 9, the ball is considered in play as long as it stays within the boundaries of the field. The ball is out of play when it has completely crossed the goal line or touchline, either on the ground or in the air. Once the ball is out of play, the game is paused, and play is restarted with a throw-in, goal kick, or corner kick, depending on the situation.
Knowing when the ball is in or out of play is essential for understanding how a match flows and when teams need to take action to restart the game.
Law 10: The Method of Scoring
Law 10 defines how a goal is scored. In soccer, a goal is awarded when the entire ball crosses the goal line, between the goalposts, and under the crossbar, provided no infringements have occurred. This includes when the ball is deliberately kicked or headed by a player into the goal. A goal counts regardless of how it enters the net, whether it’s a powerful shot or a deflection off another player or an opponent’s body.
To keep the game fair, if the ball doesn’t cross the goal line entirely or if a foul has been committed before the goal, the referee can disallow the goal. The method of scoring is simple but essential to determine the outcome of the match, as the team with the most goals at the end wins.
Helpful Hint:
If you’re ever watching a soccer game and unsure whether a goal counts, remember that the whole ball must cross the goal line. In professional matches, the use of technology like goal-line technology helps referees make precise decisions in tight situations.
Law 11: Offside
Law 11 is one of the most talked-about rules in soccer: the offside rule. According to this law, a player is in an offside position if they are closer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second-to-last defender when the ball is played to them. However, just being in an offside position isn’t a violation – a player can only be penalized for being offside if they are actively involved in the play, such as receiving the ball or interfering with an opponent.
The offside rule ensures that players can’t just hang out near the opponent’s goal waiting for an easy pass. It encourages teamwork, strategic movement, and tactical play, making the game more dynamic and exciting.
Helpful Hint:
It can be tricky to spot offside in real-time, especially when you’re not close to the action. A good rule of thumb is that if a player is ahead of the last defender when the ball is passed, they’re likely offside. Watching the assistant referee’s flag can often give you a clear indication.
Law 12: Fouls and Misconduct
Law 12 covers the fouls and misconduct that occur during a match. It outlines the various offenses players can commit, including pushing, tripping, holding, or playing the ball dangerously. When a foul occurs, the opposing team is awarded a free kick. If the foul is more serious, such as a reckless tackle or handball, the player can be shown a yellow or red card, signaling a warning or an ejection from the game, respectively.
Fouls are an essential part of soccer, as they help maintain order and ensure player safety. Misconduct like violent behavior, unsporting conduct, or deliberate fouls can disrupt the flow of the game and result in disciplinary action from the referee.
Law 13: Free Kicks
Free kicks are awarded when a player commits a foul or a minor infringement. According to Law 13, there are two types of free kicks: direct and indirect. A direct free kick allows the player to shoot directly at the goal, while an indirect free kick requires the ball to touch another player before a goal can be scored. Both types of free kicks can be awarded from any spot on the field where the foul occurred.
Free kicks are one of the most exciting aspects of soccer, as they often result in dangerous goal-scoring opportunities, especially if taken by a skilled player. Teams work hard to perfect set-piece plays to capitalize on these moments.
Helpful Hint:
For free kicks near the penalty area, the attacking team will often line up to deceive the goalkeeper and defenders. These set-piece strategies can be highly effective when executed well. It’s crucial to know when to take a quick free kick versus waiting for the right setup.
Law 14: Penalty Kicks
Law 14 defines the penalty kick. This is awarded when a player commits a foul inside their own penalty area. The penalty kick is taken from the penalty spot, which is 11 meters from the goal line. Only the goalkeeper can attempt to save the shot, and the attacking player must strike the ball without any other players interfering.
Penalty kicks are high-pressure situations for both the kicker and the goalkeeper. Scoring a penalty kick can be a game-changing moment, and miss after miss can decide the outcome of a match, especially in knockout-stage tournaments or penalty shootouts.
Law 15: Throw-ins
Law 15 governs throw-ins, which occur when the ball goes out of play over the touchline. The team that did not last touch the ball gets possession. The player performing the throw-in must use both hands to throw the ball from behind and over their head while keeping both feet on the ground and behind the touchline.
Throw-ins are used to quickly resume play after the ball has crossed the touchline. Mastering a throw-in is important because it’s one of the few moments players have to restart play from the sideline, often leading to effective offensive moves.
Helpful Hint:
It’s important to ensure your throw-in is taken correctly. If you commit an illegal throw-in (e.g., by lifting your feet or not using both hands), the opposing team will get possession instead. Practice your throw-ins to avoid giving away easy possession.
Law 16: Goal Kicks
Law 16 covers goal kicks, which occur when the ball goes over the goal line but was last touched by an attacking player. The defending team is awarded a goal kick. The kick must be taken from within the goal area, and the ball is in play once it exits the penalty area. Goal kicks are a great opportunity for the defending team to reset play and launch an attack from the back.
Law 17: Corner Kicks
Finally, Law 17 outlines corner kicks. A corner kick is awarded when the ball crosses the goal line, last touched by a player from the defending team. The ball is placed in the corner arc nearest to where it went out of bounds, and the attacking team kicks the ball into play.
Corner kicks can be incredibly dangerous for the defending team because they often lead to scoring opportunities. Players will typically use corner kicks to deliver accurate crosses into the penalty area, creating chances for their teammates to score.
Helpful Hint:
When taking a corner kick, positioning the ball just right can make a world of difference. It’s important to vary your corner kick strategy to keep the defense guessing, whether by taking a short corner or sending in a long cross.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrapping Up
Understanding the 17 laws of soccer is crucial for both new players and seasoned fans, as these rules form the foundation of the game. From the offside rule to penalty kicks, each law serves to maintain fairness, safety, and excitement throughout the match. Whether you’re learning the game or refining your understanding, knowing these laws will enhance your experience on the field and in the stands. While this breakdown covers the essential laws, don’t hesitate to continue exploring the details of soccer rules. Mastering the laws of soccer is a step toward becoming a better player, coach, or even a fan who can appreciate the nuances of the beautiful game.
