Law of Substitution in Football – Regulations, How to Implement

The Law of Substitution in Football is not just a simple process of player substitution; it encompasses various regulations and details that need to be thoroughly understood. From the permitted number of substitutions to the timing and execution, every aspect influences the management of the match.

Overview of the Law of Substitution in Football

On September 5, 1965, football history witnessed a significant event when goalkeeper Giuseppe Moschioni of the Italian team Foggia became the first player to be substituted under the officially recognized Law of Substitution in Football. This milestone marked the inception of the substitution rule, opening a new chapter in match management.

This memorable event took place during a match between Foggia and Juventus. At the 61st minute, Moschioni suffered a serious injury after a collision with Juventus player Traspedini. Unable to continue, Moschioni was replaced by substitute goalkeeper Gastone Ballarini.

Since its implementation, this substitution rule has changed the way teams manage players and tactics throughout the match. This regulation allows teams to replace injured players or those needing rest, ensuring the health and performance of the players.

The introduction of the substitution rule not only facilitated tactical flexibility but also enhanced fairness in matches, enabling teams to adjust formations and strategies more effectively.

Law of Substitution in Football: Key Regulations and Details

Do you fully understand the Law of Substitution in Football and the specific regulations set forth by FIFA and national football organizations? In this article, YE7 will provide a detailed insight into the substitution rules, including the number of players that can be substituted and significant changes in recent tournaments.

About the Number of Players

In official tournaments organized by FIFA, regional football federations, and national football organizations, the Law of Substitution in Football typically allows each team to substitute a maximum of 3 players during a match. This enables teams to adjust tactics and maintain performance levels throughout the game.

Tournament regulations require clear stipulations regarding the number of substitute players who can be registered for a match. Generally, the number of substitute players allowed to register each match ranges from 3 to a maximum of 7 players. This regulation provides teams with additional flexibility in substituting players and responding to on-field situations.

The allowance for up to 5 substitutions enhances teams’ adaptability in aligning formations and tactics during a match. This not only improves gameplay efficiency but also ensures fairness and protects players’ health in high-pressure competition.

Regulations and Execution

When participating in FIFA-organized matches, the implementation of the Law of Substitution in Football is tightly controlled to ensure fairness and effectiveness. We will help you understand how the substitution law is applied through the following regulations:

According to Section 5, Law III of Decision 982-QĐ/UBTDTT in 2007, the substitution law in football is executed through specific steps as follows:

Prior Notification: The substitution must be announced to the referee in advance. A substitute player can only enter the field when the player being substituted has fully exited the field and when the chief referee permits.

Execution of Substitution: The substitute player may only enter the field from the side touchline, at the intersection of the touchline and the field when the ball is out of play. The substitution process is considered complete when the substitute player has entered the field and the substituted player has left.

Participation Rights: Once substituted, the substitute player becomes a formal player, and the substituted player no longer has the right to participate in the match. The player who has been substituted cannot return to play in the current match.

Important Points to Know About the Law of Substitution in Football

When participating in football matches, understanding and adhering to the Law of Substitution in Football is crucial to ensure a smooth and fair match. Here are some important points regarding this law that teams and fans need to be well aware of:

Number of Substitutions

According to the Law of Substitution in Football, each team is only allowed to make a maximum of 3 substitutions during the regular playing time. This does not include any breaks between the two halves. While a team may replace up to 3 players, substitutions cannot exceed this specified limit throughout the match. This rule is designed to prevent teams from exploiting substitutions to disrupt the match or reduce the pace of play for their opponents.

Substitution During Extra Time

If the match extends into extra time, the Law of Substitution in Football allows each team to make an additional substitution. This crucial regulation helps teams maintain flexibility and preserve player stamina as the match reaches a tense stage.

Under the substitution law, substitute players can only enter the field once the substituted player has completely exited and with the chief referee’s permission. Substitutions must be made at the intersection of the boundary line and the touchline when the ball is out of play.

Prevention of Abuse

This regulation also aims to limit the abuse of substitution rights to delay the match or reduce pressure on the opposing team. Adhering to substitution regulations ensures matches run fairly and attractively.

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Common Incidents When Substituting According to the Law of Substitution in Football

When executing player substitutions in football, several common incidents require attention from both teams and referees. Here are the situations and common resolutions associated with the Law of Substitution in Football:

Player Entering Unauthorized

One of the frequently occurring incidents is when a player enters the field without the referee’s permission. According to the Law of Substitution in Football, when this situation arises