Mini World Cup Playing Rules

General Rules

1. Small-sided rules apply.
2. No offside rule.
3. The goalkeeper is allowed to pick up back passes.
4. Throw-in from the sideline.
5. Respect the referee at all times.
6. The referee’s decision is final.
7. All games are 15 minutes per half.

Half-time whistle: The referee will blow the whistle at the midpoint of each half. At these points, and at halftime, managers must make the full complement of three substitutes (if available).

Playing Time & Substitutions

• All players MUST receive equal playing time.
• Planning: Divide the game into equal minute periods based on the number of subs available.
• Empty the bench: After each period, empty the bench of substitutes.
• No re-substitution: A player who has been substituted cannot be substituted again in the same game.
• Rotation: No player may start as a substitute two games in a row.
• If a team has less than 7 players on any given day they can get a player of equal grading from another team in the same age group. This must be agreed by both managers before KO.

Tip: Consult the opposing manager and referee at the start of the match to agree the format that suits both squads.

Points System

Each team plays all other teams in their group. Result Points:  Win 4 / Draw 2 / Loss 1

Group standings are decided by

Points | Goal Difference | Goals Scored | Goals Against

Knockout Phase Tiebreakers

Applies to: Play-offs, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals & Final

If level after normal time:

1. Extra time – 5 minutes each way
2. Penalty shoot-out – 5 attempts per team
3. Sudden death – if still level after penalties