Mini World Cup Playing Rules

All players MUST get equal playing time.

1. Small-sided rules apply
2. No offside rule.
3. The goalkeeper is allowed to pick up back passes.
4. Throw in from the sidelines.
5. All games are 15 minutes per half
6. Respect the referee at all times
7. The referee’s decision is final
8. No substitute that comes on the pitch is to be substituted again in any given game.
9. No player starts as a sub, 2 games in a row

Possible options: please consult with the opposite manager and referee at the time

1/4 Time – Referees will blow their whistles halfway through each half of each game.  At these points and at half-time, managers must make the full complement of three substitutes, if available.

Empty the Bench – Based on the number of subs you have, break up the game into minute periods so all players will get equal playing time. After each period, empty the bench of subs.

Point, Results, and Deciders

Each team plays all other teams in their group or section and is awarded four points for a win, two for a draw, and one for a loss. The number of points, goal difference, and then goals scored determine placement within the group.

If the sides are level at the end of normal time in a knock-out phase game (play-off, quarter-final, semi-final, and final) then the game goes to extra time of five minutes each way, followed by a penalty shoot-out of five attempts per team, and then a sudden death shoot-out if still level.

If a score in a match has more than a 4-goal difference, the team losing can bring on another player; if the score continues to increase, they should bring on 2 players. We ideally do not want to see teams losing by larger amounts; we want the experience to be fun for both teams, and heavy losses are not fun. To note if the score starts to become close again and within 2 goals, the losing team should take the extra players off.