Soccer is full of excitement and unexpected twists. But what happens when a game ends in a tie? Does overtime exist in soccer? The simple answer: yes, but it’s called extra time, and it works differently than in other sports.
What Is Extra Time?
In soccer, extra time is added when a game needs a winner. This usually happens in knockout-stage games where a draw cannot be the final result.
Instead of a traditional overtime period like in basketball or American football, soccer has a special system for determining the winner.
How Does Extra Time Work?
Extra time consists of two halves of 15 minutes each. This means an additional 30 minutes of play. There is a short break in between, but no full halftime break.
The rules during extra time are the same as normal play. Teams can:
- Score goals just like in regular time.
- Make additional substitutions (usually one extra on top of the allowed ones).
- Play until the full 30 minutes are completed, even if someone scores.
If the score is still tied after extra time… then we go to penalty kicks!
The Golden Goal and Silver Goal Rules (Retired)
In the past, soccer experimented with different ways to shorten extra time.
- Golden Goal: The first team to score immediately won the game.
- Silver Goal: A goal would end the half, but if the other team equalized before halftime, play would continue.
These rules were removed because they made teams play too cautiously. Now, full extra time is always played before going to penalties.
What About Added Time?
There’s another form of extra minutes in soccer called stoppage time (or injury time). This is very different from extra time.
Stoppage time is added at the end of each half to compensate for interruptions like:
- Injuries
- Substitutions
- VAR reviews
- Time-wasting
The referee decides how much stoppage time is given. However, it does not act as overtime. It only ensures that lost playtime is recovered.
What Happens After Extra Time?
If extra time ends with a tie, the game moves to the most thrilling moment in soccer: the penalty shootout!
Each team takes turns shooting from the penalty spot against the goalkeeper. The team that scores more penalties wins.
Here’s how it works:
- Each team gets five penalty kicks.
- If one team scores more than the other by the fifth kick, they win.
- If still tied, the shootout continues with sudden death—meaning one missed shot can end it.
Do All Games Have Extra Time?
No! Most soccer matches do not use extra time. It is mainly for tournaments and knockout stages.
Here’s when extra time is not used:
- League matches: Games can end in a tie.
- Group stage matches: They also allow draws.
But in finals or elimination rounds, a winner must be decided. That’s when extra time comes into play!
Famous Extra Time Moments
Some of the greatest soccer moments happened in extra time. Here are a few unforgettable ones:
- 2014 World Cup Final: Mario Götze’s extra-time goal won the cup for Germany!
- 1999 Champions League Final: Manchester United made a famous comeback in stoppage time.
- 2006 World Cup Final: Zinedine Zidane scored a penalty in extra time, then got sent off with a red card!
Why Is Extra Time So Exciting?
Extra time is intense. Players are exhausted, but they must push forward. Coaches make last-minute strategies. Fans hold their breath with every attack.
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It adds to the drama, making soccer one of the most exciting sports in the world.
Final Thoughts
So, does soccer have overtime? Yes, but it’s called extra time!
It’s a unique way to determine a winner in crucial matches. If extra time doesn’t produce a winner, penalty kicks take over. Tense moments, historic goals, and ultimate drama—extra time is a true test of endurance and skill!