SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/soc-added-time

After the board shows the added time at the end of a half, can the referee shorten it?

No. The referee can add more time but cannot cut it.

Start playing free

  1. Yes, if the score is lopsided
  2. Yes, if both captains agree
  3. No, it can only be increased ✔

Why: The fourth official shows the minimum added time the referee decided. The referee may increase it but not reduce it.

Huh, didn't know that: Time lost to goal celebrations and VAR checks also counts toward added time.

The dad joke
Why did the clock join the soccer team? It was great at stoppage time.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: No, it can only be increased. The fourth official shows the minimum added time the referee decided. The referee may increase it but not reduce it.

  1. IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 7 The Duration of the Match www.theifab.com/laws/latest/the-duration-of-the-match
    The additional time may be increased by the referee but not reduced.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessHow wide is a full-size soccer goal, measured between the inside of the posts?Sports & FitnessHow far from the goal is the penalty mark on a full-size field?Sports & FitnessHow many players can a team have on the field at once in a full soccer match?

That's stuff everyone should know.