Professional soccer games, officially known as football matches in most parts of the world, adhere to a standardized duration established by the sport’s governing bodies. The length of these matches can be broken down into several segments and additional considerations.
**Standard Match Duration**
A typical professional soccer game lasts for a total of 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each.
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Halftime Break
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After the first 45 minutes, there is a halftime break that lasts for 15 minutes. This break allows players to rest, receive strategic instructions from their coaches, and rehydrate.
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Injury Time or Stoppage Time
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In addition to the regular 90 minutes, referees may add extra time at the end of each half. This additional time, known as injury time or stoppage time, compensates for any delays that occurred due to:
- Injuries
- Substitutions
- Time-wasting
- Other interruptions
The referee determines the amount of stoppage time based on these factors and signals it at the end of the 45-minute mark for both halves.
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Extra Time in Knockout Competitions
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For tournaments and knockout competitions where a winner must be decided, games that end in a tie after 90 minutes go into extra time. Extra time consists of:
- Two halves of 15 minutes each (total of 30 minutes)
- An additional brief break between the two halves of extra time
If the score remains tied after extra time, the match proceeds to a penalty shootout to determine the winner.
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Penalty Shootout
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The penalty shootout involves each team taking turns to shoot from the penalty spot, with the aim of outscoring the opponent. Initially, each team takes five shots, and if still tied, they go to sudden death until a winner is determined.
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Summary of Match Segments
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- First Half: 45 minutes
- Halftime Break: 15 minutes
- Second Half: 45 minutes
- Stoppage/Injury Time: Variable (Typically a few additional minutes per half)
- If required for knockout games:
- Extra Time: Two 15-minute halves (30 minutes total)
- Penalty Shootout: If the match is still tied after extra time
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Conclusion
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In summary, a standard professional soccer game is 90 minutes long with a 15-minute halftime break and additional stoppage time as determined by the referee. For knockout competitions, extra time and potentially a penalty shootout may extend the match. This structure ensures the game is played fairly while considering various game interruptions and the need for a decisive outcome in tournament settings.