fOOTBALL rules

1. Tournament Format

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1.1 The competition shall be organized in a group stage format, followed by knockout rounds, provided that a sufficient number of teams have registered.
1.2 If the number of registered teams is insufficient for a knockout phase, the tournament shall consist solely of a group stage, with the team accumulating the highest points declared the winner.
1.3 Standard point allocation applies: 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, 0 points for a loss.

 

2. Team Composition

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2.1 Each team shall consist of a maximum of eight (8) players on the field, including one goalkeeper.
2.2 A team must have a minimum of six (6) players on the field for play to commence or continue.
2.3 Substitutions shall follow an unlimited rolling substitution system, allowing changes at any moment, provided the outgoing player has completely exited the field before the replacement enters.

 

3. Match Duration

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3.1 Each match shall consist of two halves of 15 minutes.
3.2 A 5-minute halftime break shall be observed between the two halves.
3.3 The match clock shall run continuously, except in cases of significant injury or other exceptional circumstances as determined by the match official.

 

4. Method of Scoring & Standings

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4.1 A goal shall be awarded when the entire ball crosses the goal line, between the goalposts and beneath the crossbar, provided no rule violation has occurred.
4.2 In knockout-stage matches ending in a draw, the winner shall be determined by a penalty shootout.
4.3 In group-stage play, teams shall be ranked based on points. In the event of a tie, rankings shall be determined by:

1. Head-to-head result

2. Goal difference

3. Goals scored

4. Fair play record (fewest yellow/red cards)

5. Coin toss (if all other criteria remain equal)

 

5. Restarting Play

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5.1 Play shall commence with a kick-off at the start of each half and after each goal scored.
5.2 The ball shall be returned to play using a throw-in, goal clearance, or corner kick as per standard procedure.
5.3 Free kicks, both direct and indirect, shall be taken from the spot of the infraction unless otherwise directed by the referee.

 

6. Player Conduct & Infractions

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6.1 Any player engaging in reckless, dangerous, or unsporting behavior shall be subject to disciplinary action by the match official.
6.2 The match official shall have the authority to issue yellow cards (warnings) and red cards (ejections) based on the severity of the offense.
6.3 Deliberate obstruction, handling the ball with intent, or excessive physical contact outside the natural course of play shall be penalized.

 

7. Goalkeeper Regulations

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7.1 The goalkeeper may only handle the ball within the designated area.
7.2 A goalkeeper is prohibited from handling the ball when receiving a deliberate pass from a teammate’s foot.
7.3 Distribution of the ball is unrestricted, except where specific competition rules apply regarding direct play into the opposing half.

 

8. Officiating & Decisions

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8.1 The match official shall have full authority to enforce the rules and take disciplinary action as necessary.
8.2 All decisions made by the match official regarding gameplay, infractions, and rule interpretation shall be final.