Football Match Duration: Total Time, Stoppage Time, Extra Time & Half-Time Rules
Football is the most popular sport in the world, played between two teams of 11 players each. The objective of the game is to win by scoring more goals than the opposing team within the allotted match time.
One of the most common questions among fans is:
How long does a football match last?
The standard football match duration is 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, plus additional stoppage time if required.
This guide explains football match duration, half-time rules, stoppage time, extra time, and penalties according to the official IFAB Laws of the Game.
Standard Football Match Duration (90 Minutes)
A standard football match consists of:
- Two halves of 45 minutes each
- Total regulation time: 90 minutes
- Short half-time break between halves
The referee keeps the official time and ensures each half is completed fairly.
Important: The 45-minute duration may only be reduced if both teams and the referee agree before the match, and only if competition rules allow it.
Half-Time Interval Rules
Half-time is the break between the first and second halves.
Key Half-Time Rules:
- Maximum half-time duration: 15 minutes
- Players rest, rehydrate, and receive tactical instructions
- Half-time duration can only be changed with the referee’s permission
- In extra time, a short break (maximum 1 minute) is allowed between halves
Half-time is essential for player recovery and match strategy adjustments.
Stoppage Time (Added Time) Explained
Stoppage time is extra time added at the end of each half to compensate for delays during the match.
Reasons for stoppage time include:
- Player substitutions
- Injury treatment or removal
- Time-wasting
- VAR checks and reviews
- Goal celebrations
- Disciplinary actions (yellow/red cards)
- Drinks or cooling breaks
- External delays
The fourth official displays the minimum stoppage time, but the referee may extend it if necessary.
Important rule: Stoppage time cannot be reduced once it has been announced.
Extra Time in Football (Knockout Matches Only)
Extra time is played only when a winner must be decided, such as in knockout tournaments.
Extra Time Structure:
- Two halves of 15 minutes each
- Total extra time: 30 minutes
- Short break between halves (maximum 1 minute)
If both teams are still level after extra time, the winner is decided through a penalty shootout
Penalty Kick Extension Rule
If a penalty kick is awarded at the end of a half, the referee allows the half to continue until the penalty kick is completed.
This ensures fairness and allows the attacking team to take the penalty.
Abandoned Match Rules
A match may be abandoned due to:
- Severe weather
- Crowd disturbance
- Stadium or lighting failure
- Safety concerns
The competition authority decides whether the match will be replayed or resumed later.
Total Duration of a Football Match (Including Breaks)
| Component | Duration |
| First Half | 45 minutes |
| Half-Time | up to 15 minutes |
| Second Half | 45 minutes |
| Stoppage Time | varies |
| Extra Time(if needed) | 30 minutes |
| Penalties (if needed) | varies |
| Typical total time spent waching | Typical total time spent watching |
FAQ: Football Match Duration
How long is a football match in total?
A standard football match is played over two equal periods of 45 minutes each, making a total regulation time of 90 minutes. Including half-time and stoppage time, the total viewing time is usually 105–120 minutes.
What is stoppage time in football?
Stoppage time is extra time added by the referee to compensate for delays such as injuries, substitutions, VAR checks, and time-wasting.
What is extra time in football?
Extra time is an additional 30 minutes played in knockout matches when the score is tied after 90 minutes.
How long is half-time in football?
Half-time lasts a maximum of 15 minutes.
Can a football match exceed 90 minutes?
Yes. A match can exceed 90 minutes due to stoppage time, extra time, and penalty shootouts.
Who decides stoppage time?
The referee decides stoppage time based on delays during the match.
