The Play Clock, Stoppage Time and Extra Time

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Soccer matches are 90 minutes long and made up of two 45 minute halves. The play clock in soccer operates differently than most other sports. 

  • It counts UP from 0 to 90 minutes.
  • It never stops, except for halftime.
  • The referee may add "stoppage time" at the end of each half. 

Essentials of the Play Clock (0:38):

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Soccer, compared to other sports, is a low scoring game. Many matches are decided by a single point.  It is also common for matches to end in a tie score, called a "draw".  

A draw is a common and acceptable outcome in most matches. But in tournaments, a winner must be declared.  This happens through soccer's version of overtime, called "extra time".

How Tied Matches Are Decided in Tournament Play (0:33):

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To Review:

  • Soccer matches are 90 minutes long, with two 45 minute halves.
  • The play clock counts UP from 0 to 90 minutes.
  • The play clock never stops, except for halftime.
  • The referee may add a few minutes to each half for "stoppage time".
  • When a match ends in a tie, it may go into "extra time".
  • If a match is tied after extra time, it will go to a shootout.