Soccer, known as “football” in most parts of the world, is a sport filled with dynamic action, passionate fans, and moments that can change the outcome in a matter of seconds. One such moment comes when a game extends beyond the regular 90 minutes — extra time. Understanding how long extra time is and what it entails is essential for anyone looking to fully grasp the intricacies of the game.
TLDR (Too Long; Didn’t Read): In soccer, extra time is typically 30 minutes, split into two 15-minute halves, and is used in knockout matches when the score is tied after regulation. If the tied state persists, a penalty shootout follows. Extra time is only implemented in specific competitions and scenarios, and it’s distinct from injury time (also called stoppage time) added at the end of each half. Strategic substitutions and tactics change significantly during extra time, adding another layer of complexity to the game.
What Is Extra Time in Soccer?
Extra time in soccer refers to an additional period of play used to determine a winner when a game is tied after the standard 90 minutes of regulation play. Unlike most league matches during the regular season — which can end in a draw — tournament or cup matches, particularly during the knockout stages, require a decisive result. In such cases, extra time is initiated.
This extra time is not to be confused with stoppage time or injury time, which is added at the end of each half to compensate for delays caused by injuries, substitutions, or other interruptions during the game.
How Long Is Extra Time in Soccer?
The standard length of extra time in soccer is 30 minutes, divided into two equal halves of 15 minutes each. Here’s a breakdown:
- First extra time period: 15 minutes
- Break: A 1-minute break at the end of the first extra time period (no full halftime break)
- Second extra time period: 15 minutes
If the score remains level after both halves of extra time, the match progresses to a penalty shootout to determine the winner. This format has become standard in most international competitions such as the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, and domestic cup finals.
When Is Extra Time Used?
Extra time is employed exclusively under scenarios where a tie cannot be the final result. These include:
- Knockout stages of international tournaments (e.g., FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro)
- Club competition knockout rounds (e.g., UEFA Champions League Round of 16, quarter-finals, etc.)
- Domestic cup finals or rounds that require a winner (e.g., FA Cup, Copa del Rey)
In contrast, most regular league matches (e.g., English Premier League, La Liga) do not go into extra time and may end in a draw after 90 minutes plus stoppage time.
Extra Time vs. Stoppage Time
One of the most common areas of confusion for new fans is the difference between extra time and stoppage time.
- Stoppage Time: Also called “injury time,” this is added by the referee at the end of each 45-minute half to account for time lost due to injuries, substitutions, time-wasting, or other delays. It usually ranges from 1 to 6 minutes.
- Extra Time: A 30-minute extension of the match used to determine a winner in knockout-style formats. It is only used if the match is tied after regulation.
Golden Goal and Silver Goal — Historical Context
In years past, FIFA and other governing bodies experimented with alternatives such as the Golden Goal and Silver Goal during extra time.
- Golden Goal: First team to score during extra time wins immediately.
- Silver Goal: If a team leads at the end of the first 15-minute period, they win without playing the second half.
However, these methods were phased out due to concerns about fairness and were officially discontinued in the mid-2000s. Traditional full extra time and subsequent penalty shootouts are now the standard.
Substitutions During Extra Time
FIFA allows teams to make an additional substitution in extra time beyond the regular limit. For example, if the competition rules follow the current international standard of allowing five substitutions during the 90 minutes, a sixth substitution can be made in extra time.
This rule acknowledges the physical demands of playing beyond the regular match time and attempts to preserve player safety while allowing for tactical adjustments.
Physical and Strategic Impact of Extra Time
Extra time significantly changes the match dynamics:
- Player fatigue: Most athletes are near their physical limits after 90 minutes, so coaches often prioritize fresh legs during substitutions.
- Increased risks: Fouls, cramps, and injuries are more common.
- Tactical shifts: Teams may opt for conservative or aggressive strategies depending on their confidence in a potential penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootouts — The Final Decider
If no goals are scored or if both teams are still tied after 30 minutes of extra time, the game moves into a penalty shootout. The process is as follows:
- Each team selects five players to take a penalty.
- Teams alternate kicks from the penalty spot.
- The team with the most goals after five rounds wins.
- If tied, a sudden-death phase begins until one team scores and the other misses in the same round.
Penalty shootouts are high-pressure situations and often seen as a test of mental toughness more than physical skill.
Conclusion
Extra time in soccer is a crucial component in determining winners of matches that cannot end in a draw. While it’s a test of strategy, endurance, and mental focus, it also adds drama and intensity that fans around the world relish. Whether you’re a new fan or a seasoned follower, understanding how and when extra time comes into play adds depth to your appreciation of the beautiful game.
FAQs
- Q: Is extra time always played in soccer?
A: No, extra time is only played in knockout-stage matches or cup competitions where a winner must be determined. - Q: How long is extra time in soccer?
A: Extra time consists of two 15-minute halves, totaling 30 minutes of additional play. - Q: What happens after extra time if the score is still tied?
A: The game goes to a penalty shootout to decide the winner. - Q: Is extra time the same as stoppage time?
A: No. Stoppage time compensates for delays within regular play. Extra time is an additional 30-minute period when matches remain tied. - Q: Can teams make more substitutions in extra time?
A: Yes, FIFA allows one additional substitution during extra time. - Q: Has the golden goal rule been abolished?
A: Yes, both the golden goal and silver goal rules have been discontinued. Full extra time followed by a penalty shootout is now standard.