SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/soc-two-halves

How long is a regular full soccer match?

Two halves of 45 minutes, plus added time.

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  1. Two halves of 45 minutes ✔
  2. Four quarters of 20 minutes
  3. Two halves of 40 minutes

Why: A match lasts two equal halves of 45 minutes. It can only be shorter if the referee and both teams agree before the match and competition rules allow it.

Huh, didn't know that: Youth leagues often play shorter halves under their own competition rules.

The dad joke
Why did the soccer player bring a clock to the game? He wanted to be on time for the second half.
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References

Answer: Two halves of 45 minutes. A match lasts two equal halves of 45 minutes. It can only be shorter if the referee and both teams agree before the match and competition rules allow 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
    A match lasts for two equal halves of 45 minutes
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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