How long is a football match?
B · Beginner · How long is a match, and what stops it? · 16 of 17Checked 13 October 2026
A football match is two halves of 45 minutes, with a half-time interval of no more than 15 minutes. The referee adds time at the end of each half for time lost, so a match usually runs a few minutes past 90. The clock does not stop during play.
How it works
- Two equal halves of 45 minutes.
- Half-time: no more than 15 minutes, set by the competition.
- The teams change ends for the second half.
- The halves can be shortened only if the referee and both teams agree before the match and the competition allows it.
- Time lost in a half is added at the end of that half.
- A half is extended for a penalty kick to be taken or retaken.
- The referee is the timekeeper.
Tricky cases
Does the clock stop when the ball goes out?
No. The clock runs throughout. The referee adds time for the stoppages listed in the Laws.
Can a half end during a penalty?
No. The half is extended until the penalty kick is completed.
Are children's matches 90 minutes?
No. Youth, veterans, disability and grassroots football can use shorter halves.
Why the rule exists
A running clock with time added back keeps the game moving while making sure stoppages do not shorten the playing time.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All football under the Laws | 2 × 45 minutes; half-time up to 15 | L7.1, 7.2 |
| Youth, veterans, disability and grassroots football | The length of the halves can be changed | L Notes (General modifications) |
| Extra time | Two halves of up to 15 minutes | L10.2 |
From the rule book
IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Laws 5.3, 7 and 8.1, in force from 1 July 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: IFAB Laws of the Game (PDF).