Soccer, known as football in most parts of the world, is the planet’s most popular sport, captivating millions with its fast-paced action and skillful play. One of the fundamental questions new fans and players often ask is, “How many players are on a soccer team?” The answer depends on the context—whether it’s a match, a roster, or a variation of the game. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the number of players on a soccer team, explore variations, and answer related questions to give you a full understanding of this beloved sport.
How Many Players Are on a Soccer Team During a Match?
In a standard soccer match, each team fields 11 players on the pitch at any given time. This is the rule for professional matches governed by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the body responsible for the Laws of the Game. These 11 players include:
1 Goalkeeper: The only player allowed to use their hands, but only within the penalty area surrounding the goal.
10 Outfield Players: These players take on roles such as defenders, midfielders, and forwards, depending on the team’s formation and strategy.
The total number of players on the field during a match is therefore 22 (11 per team), assuming no red cards or injuries disrupt play. This 11-player setup is consistent across most competitive formats, including FIFA World Cup matches, Premier League games, and local leagues. And while it’s not quite the same as checking out a zodiac casino en ligne where strategy meets chance, understanding soccer formations and player roles can be just as fascinating and complex.
How Many Players Are in a Soccer Team Roster?
While only 11 players can play at once, a soccer team’s roster—the full list of available players—is typically larger. In professional leagues and tournaments, teams are allowed to have a squad or roster that includes substitutes. Here’s how it breaks down:
Matchday Squad: For most professional competitions, teams can name a bench of substitutes. In FIFA and UEFA competitions, this is usually 12 substitutes, bringing the matchday squad to 23 players (11 starters + 12 substitutes). However, only a limited number of substitutions are allowed during the game—typically 5 substitutions as of recent rule changes, though this can vary by competition.
Season Roster: Clubs in leagues like the English Premier League or MLS often register 25–30 players for the season, though some may be youth players or reserves not regularly included in matchday squads. Curious about famous rosters? Check out some iconic Team Names that have shaped soccer history.
The roster size ensures teams have depth to handle injuries, fatigue, and tactical adjustments throughout a season.
How Many Players Are on a Soccer Team in Youth or Small-Sided Games?
Soccer isn’t always played with 11 players per side. In youth leagues and small-sided formats, the number of players varies to suit age groups, field sizes, and skill development. Common variations include:
5-a-side (Futsal or Indoor Soccer): Each team has 5 players, including a goalkeeper. This fast-paced format is popular in urban areas and recreational leagues.
7-a-side: Often used for younger players (e.g., U9 or U10 age groups), this format features 7 players per team, balancing skill development and game flow.
9-a-side: Common for U11 or U12 teams, 9 players per side allow for a transition toward the full 11-a-side game.
These smaller formats reduce the physical demands on young players and encourage more touches on the ball, fostering technical growth.
How Many Players Can Be Substituted in a Soccer Match?
Substitutions add another layer to the question of how many players are involved in a soccer team during a match. Historically, soccer allowed 3 substitutions per game, but rules have evolved:
Current Standard: As of 2025, most top-tier competitions, including FIFA and UEFA events, permit 5 substitutions per match, typically made in 3 stoppages (to avoid excessive delays). Some leagues also allow an additional substitution for concussion protocols.
Youth and Amateur Rules: Lower-level or recreational games might allow unlimited substitutions, especially in youth leagues where participation is prioritized.
Substitutes are drawn from the matchday squad, meaning the total number of players actively involved in a game can exceed the starting 11.
Why Are There 11 Players on a Soccer Team?
The tradition of 11 players dates back to the 19th century when soccer’s rules were formalized in England. The number was influenced by:
Field Size: Early soccer pitches were large, requiring enough players to cover the space effectively.
Balance: 11 players allowed for a mix of defensive, midfield, and attacking roles, creating a dynamic game.
Historical Precedent: Other sports like cricket (11 players per side) may have inspired soccer’s structure.
Over time, 11 became the global standard, enshrined in the Laws of the Game and rarely questioned in full-sided matches.
How Many Players Are on a Soccer Team in Special Circumstances?
Certain situations can alter the number of players on the field:
Red Cards: If a player is sent off with a red card, their team must continue with fewer players (e.g., 10 instead of 11). A team cannot fall below 7 players—if it does, the match is typically abandoned.
Injuries: If a team runs out of substitutions and a player is injured, they may play short-handed, though this is rare in professional settings.
These rules ensure fairness while maintaining the integrity of the game.
Conclusion: Understanding Soccer Team Sizes
So, how many players are on a soccer team? The answer is 11 for a standard match, with larger rosters and substitutes adding flexibility. Variations like 5-a-side or 7-a-side cater to different contexts, while substitution rules keep the game dynamic. Whether you’re a casual fan or an aspiring player, knowing these numbers deepens your appreciation of soccer’s structure and strategy.
Have more questions about soccer rules or team dynamics? Let us know in the comments, and explore our other guides for a deeper dive into the beautiful game!
