Umair AnXari
A typical Football match lasts 90 minutes and consists of two 45-minute halves. This duration was established in 1866, during a clash between London and Sheffield. To overcome the issue, both teams played for 90 minutes.
Since then, this duration has become a rule followed around the world. In this article, we cover this topic in more detail.
Does a Football Match Always Last 90 Minutes?
While a professional football game usually lasts 90 minutes, there are exceptions. For example, the time limit is reduced in youth games to compensate for the youth’s lack of fitness.
Due to lack of fitness, youth matches often last less than 90 minutes. The exact length will depend on the age group.
Typically, under-six teams play two 10-minute halves, under-8s play two 20-minute halves, under-10s play two 25-minute halves, under-12s play two 30-minute halves, under-14s play two 35-minute halves, and under-16s play two 40-minute halves. If all players are over 17 years of age, the team will play the standard two 45-minute halves.
Both men’s and women’s games last 90 minutes with a 15-minute half-time in between. Both games may go into overtime depending on stoppages and injuries.
In Short
A standard football match lasts 90 minutes and consists of two 45-minute halves. There is a 15-minute break in the middle of the game known as “half time”. There are a few exceptions to this duration, including youth matches and matches with extra time and/or penalty shootouts.
