⚽ Football Rules & Regulations

Tournament Format

  • The tournament will be conducted in accordance with official FIFA rules (except where modified below).

  • The tournament will follow a knockout format.

  • This is a 7-a-side competition.

  • Each team may register a maximum of 12 players (7 on the field and 5 substitutes).

  • Each team must report to the venue at least 15 minutes before the scheduled match time.

  • Match duration: two halves of 20 minutes each, with a 5-minute break at halftime.

  • If the match ends level at full time: extra time of 5 minutes (two halves) will be played. If still level, a penalty tie-breaker followed by sudden death, if necessary, will determine the winner.

  • The referee’s decision will be final in all matters.

•Wearing the official event jersey is mandatory for participation in all sports and activities. Participants without the official jersey will not be permitted to take part or qualify for any rankings or prizes.

Playing Rules

  • The offside rule will not apply in this tournament.

  • Rolling substitutions are permitted throughout the match (players must enter/exit from the designated area as directed by the referee).

  • A team may field a minimum of 5 players to start or continue a match (including 1 goalkeeper who is the only player allowed to handle the ball within the penalty area).

Equipment & Footwear

  • Strictly no metal studs allowed. Only flat or rubber studs are permitted.

Discipline

  • For fouls committed, a player may receive a yellow or red card at the referee’s discretion.

  • Accumulation of two yellow cards results in the player being disqualified from the current match.

  • A red card results in the player being disqualified from the current match.

  • Once a player is sent off, the player cannot be replaced (team continues with fewer players).

Scoring & Restarts

  • A goal is awarded only when the whole of the ball crosses the goal line.

  • If the ball goes out of play over the touchline after last touching an opponent, it is a throw-in.

  • If the ball goes out of play over the goal line after last touching an attacking player, it is a goal kick.

  • If the ball goes out of play over the goal line after last touching a defending player, it is a corner kick.