Soccer Field Dimensions: Size, Length, Width & Players
Soccer, or football as it is known in many parts of the world, is the most popular sport globally, with millions of players and fans tuning in to watch matches each week. The dimensions of a soccer field affect the game’s pace and style and influence how players develop their skills.
Whether you’re a player, coach, or fan, understanding the standard sizes for different soccer fields is essential for grasping how the game is played at various levels. In this guide, we’ll break down the dimensions for other types of soccer fields, their purpose, and how they vary depending on age and competition levels.
What are the Standard Soccer Field Dimensions?
Soccer fields come in different sizes, but they all follow general guidelines by governing bodies such as FIFA. Whether it’s a professional match or a local youth league, the dimensions are crucial for ensuring fairness and consistency in the game.
Length and Width of a Soccer Field
A standard soccer field for international adult-level matches typically ranges in length from 100 to 130 yards (90 to 120 meters) and in width from 50 to 100 yards (45 to 90 meters). However, FIFA’s “Laws of the Game” specify that international soccer fields should be 110 to 120 yards (100 to 110 meters) in length and 70 to 80 yards (64 to 75 meters) in width.
These dimensions create a balanced playing environment that allows for a mixture of strategy and fast-paced action. Larger fields offer more space for players to display their skills, while narrower fields can lead to tighter games with more emphasis on crosses and long balls.
Types of Soccer Fields and Their Dimensions
Different formats of soccer games are played on fields of varying sizes, each designed to suit the number of players and the skill levels involved. From small-sided games to professional 11v11 matches, each format provides a different experience on the field.
Professional Soccer Field Dimensions (11v11)
For professional or international matches, the field dimensions are set to offer the most balanced and challenging environment for players. A regulation field for an 11v11 match usually measures:
- Length: 100–130 yards (90–120 meters)
- Width: 50–100 yards (45–90 meters)
- FIFA Standard: 110–120 yards (100–110 meters) in length and 70–80 yards (64–75 meters) in width.
This is the field size you’ll see in major leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, and World Cup matches.
7v7 Soccer Field Dimensions
Smaller games, such as 7v7 soccer, use a more compact field to accommodate fewer players. The recommended dimensions for a 7v7 soccer field are:
- Length: 49.2 to 60.1 yards (45 to 55 meters)
- Width: 27.3 to 38.3 yards (25 to 35 meters)
This size provides enough space for players to spread out and utilize their skills, while maintaining a faster pace due to fewer players on the field.
9v9 Soccer Field Dimensions
As players grow older and the competition becomes more structured, the field size increases. A 9v9 soccer field typically measures:
- Length: 70 to 80 yards (64 to 73 meters)
- Width: 45 to 55 yards (41 to 50 meters)
This size is often used for players in the U11–U12 age groups and helps simulate a more competitive atmosphere by offering a larger area for strategy and positioning.
Soccer Field Dimensions for Different Age Groups
Youth soccer leagues scale the field sizes based on the age group, ensuring that the field matches the physical and developmental stage of the players. Here’s a breakdown of the field sizes for different age groups:
| Age Group | Game Format | Length (yards) | Width (yards) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 6 | 3 vs 3 or 4 vs 4 | 25–35 | 15–25 |
| Under 7 & 8 | 4 vs 4 or 5 vs 5 | 25–35 | 15–25 |
| Under 9 & 10 | 6 vs 6 or 7 vs 7 | 55–65 | 35–45 |
| Under 11 & 12 | 8 vs 8–11 vs 11 | 70–80 | 45–55 |
| Under 13+ | 11 vs 11 | 100–130 | 50–100 |
U6 Soccer Field Dimensions
For young children just starting to learn the game, the U6 soccer field is the smallest. These fields are typically around:
- Length: 75–105 feet (23 to 32 meters)
- Width: 45–75 feet (14 to 23 meters)
At this age, the focus is on skill development, teamwork, and having fun rather than competitive play. Smaller fields ensure that each player can get plenty of touches on the ball, improving their ball control and awareness.
U8 Soccer Field Dimensions
The U8 soccer field is very similar to the U6 field in terms of size. As players begin to develop a better understanding of the game, the field dimensions allow for more players and slightly more complexity:
- Length: 75–105 feet (23 to 32 meters)
- Width: 45–75 feet (14 to 23 meters)
At this level, 6v6 games are common, providing more opportunities for children to engage with the ball and refine their technical skills.
U10 Soccer Field Dimensions
For the U10 age group, the field size begins to increase significantly. As players grow and learn tactical aspects of the game, the field dimensions typically range:
- Length: 165–195 feet (50 to 60 meters)
- Width: 105–135 feet (32 to 41 meters)
This field is ideal for the 7v7 format, where players can start to experiment with more complex game strategies while still playing in a more manageable space.
U12 Soccer Field Dimensions
At the U12 level, the game continues to evolve as players gain more experience. The dimensions for these fields are closer to professional sizes:
- Length: 210–240 feet (64 to 73 meters)
- Width: 135–165 feet (41 to 50 meters)
The 9v9 format is standard for this age group, offering more space for players to develop advanced techniques and game intelligence.
Soccer Field Sizes for Various Games
The size of the soccer field can vary depending on the game format. These variations ensure that players of all ages and skill levels have an appropriate environment in which to play.
3v3 Soccer Field Dimensions
In 3v3 soccer, the field is much smaller to ensure that players get plenty of opportunities to touch the ball and develop their skills. The dimensions are typically:
- Length: 30–50 feet (9 to 15 meters)
- Width: 20–30 feet (6 to 9 meters)
This small field size is ideal for younger players or those just learning the game.
6v6 Soccer Field Dimensions
A 6v6 soccer field provides more space than 3v3 games while maintaining a fast pace. The field usually measures:
- Length: 135–180 feet (41 to 55 meters)
- Width: 105–135 feet (32 to 41 meters)
This size allows for a combination of technical play and tactical decision-making, making it suitable for players ages nine and older.
The Field Layout: Key Markings and Zones
In addition to the basic field dimensions, soccer fields have specific zones and lines that define various areas of the game. These markings help referees make calls, guide players during the match, and indicate where specific actions take place.
The Touchlines and Goal Lines
The touchlines run along the length of the field, and the goal lines define the width. These are the boundaries of the field, and if the ball crosses over these lines, it’s considered out of play.
The Goal Area
The goal area is a rectangle measuring 6 yards (5.49 meters) from the goal line and 20 yards (18.29 meters) wide. This area is significant because it is where the goalkeeper must remain during goal kicks and is used for specific free kicks.
The Penalty Area
The penalty area (or penalty box) is a larger rectangle that extends 18 yards (16.5 meters) from the goal line and 44 yards (40.2 meters) wide. This area defines where the goalkeeper is allowed to handle the ball and where penalties occur.
The Halfway Line
The halfway line divides the field into two equal halves. Players must remain on their respective halves during kick-off, and the line is crucial in determining offside rules.
The Center Circle
At the center of the field, the center circle is marked with a 10-yard (9.15-meter) radius. This circle is significant because it defines where players must stand during a kick-off.
Corner Arcs
The corner arcs are small quarter-circle markings at each corner of the field. The arc has a 1-yard (0.91-meter) radius, and it indicates where corner kicks are to be taken.
Famous Soccer Field Dimensions
Some of the world’s most iconic soccer fields have slightly varying dimensions. Here are a few examples:
| Club | Ground | Location | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester United | Old Trafford | Manchester (UK) | 114.8 yards (105m) | 74.4 yards (68m) |
| Liverpool | Anfield | Liverpool (UK) | 110.5 yards (101m) | 74.4 yards (68m) |
| LA Galaxy | Dignity Health Sports Park | California (USA) | 120 yards (109.7m) | 75 yards (68.6m) |
| Real Madrid | Santiago Bernabéu Stadium | Madrid (Spain) | 114.8 yards (105m) | 74.4 yards (68m) |
How Big is an Indoor Soccer Field?
Due to the confined space, indoor soccer is typically played on smaller fields than outdoor fields. Indoor fields generally measure:
- Length: 180–200 feet (55 to 61 meters)
- Width: 90–100 feet (27 to 30 meters)
Due to their smaller playing area, indoor fields focus more on quick reactions, skill development, and precise ball control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the size of a soccer field?
A standard soccer field for adult international matches measures 110–120 yards (100–110 meters) long and 70–80 yards (64–75 meters) wide.
Is a Soccer Field 100 Meters Long?
No, a standard FIFA soccer field is not fixed at 100 meters in length. While 100 meters (109.7 yards) falls within the lower end of the permissible range, the length can extend up to 120 meters (131.2 yards). Fields can be adjusted depending on factors such as the competition level and available space.
What is a soccer field called?
In many countries, particularly in Europe, the playing area is commonly referred to as a pitch. In the U.S., it’s more common to call it a field, but both terms refer to the same area where the game is played.
How many players are on a soccer field?
A standard soccer game involves 22 players, with 11 players per team. However, smaller games such as 7v7 or 5v5 may involve fewer players.
Is a soccer field bigger than a football field?
A professional soccer field is generally larger than an American football field. While a football field measures 120 yards, a soccer field can range from 100 to 130 yards, offering a larger playing surface.
How big is a World Cup soccer field?
A FIFA World Cup soccer field must be between 110-120 yards long and 70-80 yards wide.
Conclusion
The dimensions of a soccer field are integral to the structure and flow of the game, from professional matches to youth leagues. Understanding the various sizes used for different formats ensures that players of all ages and skill levels play in a space that promotes both development and fun. Whether you’re watching a professional game or coaching a youth league, knowing the field dimensions can help you appreciate the intricacies of the game and its evolution over time.