Official Rules of 5-a-Side Football

Fast paced, action packed and highly entertaining, 5-a-side football has become one of the most popular formats of the beautiful game across the UK. Whether you are new to the sport or just want to brush up on the details, understanding the official rules of 5-a-side will help you enjoy the game to the fullest.

In this post, we break down the standard rules followed by most leagues and centres in the UK, giving you everything you need to know before stepping onto the pitch.

Number of Players

As the name suggests, each team consists of five players on the pitch at any one time. This includes one goalkeeper and four outfield players. Most leagues allow for rolling substitutions, meaning players can be swapped on and off as needed without stopping the game.

Typically, squads will include up to seven or eight players to accommodate substitutes.

Match Duration

A standard 5-a-side match lasts for 40 minutes, split into two halves of 20 minutes each. Some leagues use shorter matches, especially during tournament play or when multiple games are played in one session.

There is usually a brief halftime break of around 1 to 2 minutes.

5-a-side Pitch and Goals

5-a-side pitches are much smaller than traditional football pitches. The pitch is usually enclosed by rebound boards or netting to keep the ball in play and the game flowing continuously.

The goals are also smaller, typically 3 metres wide by 1.2 metres high, promoting quick reactions and precision shooting over long range efforts.

No Offside Rule

One of the most defining features of 5-a-side football is the absence of the offside rule. This encourages attacking play and constant movement, making the game more exciting and free flowing.

Players are free to position themselves anywhere on the pitch without the risk of being penalised for offside.

Kick Off and Restarts

Kick off is taken from the centre of the pitch and can go in any direction
Goalkeeper restarts must be thrown or rolled underarm and cannot be kicked
Kick ins replace throw ins and must be taken from the touchline
Corner kicks are taken from the corners of the pitch in the usual way

All restarts must be taken within four seconds, or possession is awarded to the opposition.

Goalkeeper Rules

Goalkeepers are subject to a few specific rules:

They must stay within their designated area
They cannot handle the ball outside this area
They must distribute the ball by rolling or underarm throwing
Backpasses are allowed, but once the keeper releases the ball, it must touch an opponent before they can receive it again

These rules ensure that the game remains fast and flowing, limiting time wasting.

Tackling and Contact

Slide tackles are not allowed in most 5-a-side formats for safety reasons. Shoulder to shoulder contact is usually permitted as long as it is not dangerous or excessive.

Reckless or overly physical play may result in a free kick, temporary suspension or in serious cases, a sending off.

Free Kicks and Penalties

All free kicks are indirect, unless specified otherwise by local league rules
The defending team must stand at least two metres away from the ball
Penalties are taken from a designated penalty spot, usually about 2.5 metres from the goal line

Time is often paused for penalties in competitive matches to ensure fairness.

Fouls and Discipline

Persistent fouling, dissent or dangerous play can result in a player being:

Sin binned for a short period (commonly 2 minutes)
Sent off for serious misconduct

Some leagues track team fouls, and reaching a limit may result in a penalty for the opposing team.

Ball Out of Play

In enclosed pitches with walls or nets, the ball is rarely out of play. In open pitch formats, the ball is out of play when it crosses the touchlines or hits the ceiling if played indoors.

Final Whistle

5-a-side football is loved for its simplicity, speed and inclusivity. While rules can vary slightly between centres and leagues, the core structure remains the same across the UK. Whether you are a casual player or a regular competitor, understanding these rules ensures a fair and enjoyable match for everyone involved.

So next time you take to the pitch, you will know exactly what to expect and how to play the game right.