Does FIFA have overtime rules?
In the world of soccer, there are instances where a match may end in a draw, and in such cases, FIFA has implemented overtime rules to decide the winner. But, what exactly are these overtime rules, and how do they work?
Overtime in FIFA Matches
Overtime, also known as extra time, is a period of play added to the end of a match to decide the winner. In FIFA matches, overtime is used to settle ties, where the score is level after the 90 minutes of regular play. The overtime period is divided into two 15-minute halves, with a short break in between.
Extra Time Rules
Here are some key rules to note about extra time:
- Extra time duration: Each half of extra time lasts for 15 minutes, with a short break in between.
- Game continues: Even if a team scores during extra time, the game will continue until the full 30 minutes have been played.
- No Golden Goal: Unlike some tournaments, the World Cup does not have a "Golden Goal" rule, where the first team to score in extra time wins the match. The game will continue until the end of the 30 minutes.
Tiebreakers
If the score remains tied after the 30 minutes of extra time, the match will be decided through a penalty shootout. In this format, each team takes turns shooting penalty kicks, with the team scoring the most goals declared the winner.
Penalty Shootout Rules
Here are some key rules to note about penalty shootouts:
- Each team takes turns: Teams alternate taking penalty kicks, with each team taking five kicks.
- Goal difference decides: If the score remains tied after five kicks, the team with the most goals wins. If the score remains tied, the shootout continues until one team scores and the other does not.
Conclusion
In conclusion, FIFA does have overtime rules in place to decide matches that end in a tie after the 90 minutes of regular play. Overtime is divided into two 15-minute halves, with a short break in between, and the game continues until the full 30 minutes have been played. If the score remains tied after extra time, the match is decided through a penalty shootout.