Can a football match end in a draw?
B · Beginner · How is a goal scored, and how is a match won? · 3 of 17Checked 13 October 2026
Yes.
The team with more goals wins, and level scores are a draw. When a competition needs a winner, the Laws allow
only three ways to find one: the away goals rule, extra time of two halves of up to 15 minutes, and a penalty
shoot-out, alone or combined. Points for a win or draw are set by each competition.
How it works
- More goals wins. Equal goals, including 0–0, is a draw.
- If the competition requires a winner after a draw, or after a two-legged tie, it may use only:
- the away goals rule;
- extra time, two equal periods of no more than 15 minutes each;
- penalties (penalty shoot-out).
- Competitions may combine them, for example extra time and then penalties.
- Points in league tables (commonly 3 for a win and 1 for a draw) are set by the competition, not the Laws.
Tricky cases
Does a penalty shoot-out win count as a win?
It depends on the competition. The shoot-out decides who goes through; the match itself ended level.
Is there a golden goal?
No. It is not one of the permitted methods.
Do away goals still count?
It depends on the competition. The away goals rule is one of the permitted methods, but many competitions no longer use it.
Why the rule exists
A draw is a fair result when neither team has scored more. Limiting the tie-break methods keeps knockout football the same everywhere.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All football under the Laws | Win or draw; three permitted tie-break methods | L10.2 |
| Leagues and tournaments | Points and table tie-breaks are set by the competition | Not covered |
From the rule book
IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 10.2, in force from 1 July 2026. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: IFAB Laws of the Game (PDF).