Substitutions

Teams can make up to five substitutions per match in most competitions. A substituted player cannot return to the pitch. The substitute only enters after the replaced player has left.

The full rule

FIFA rules allow up to five substitutions per team in a match, with a maximum of three windows to make them — plus half time. This was introduced permanently after the COVID-19 temporary rule. A player who has been substituted off cannot return to the pitch under any circumstances. The substitute must wait for the replaced player to leave before entering. If a team makes a substitution at half time, it counts as one of their windows. Competitions can set their own rules within these limits.

Key points

✓Up to five substitutions per team per match
✓Maximum of three windows plus half time to make changes
✓Substituted player cannot return to the pitch
✓Substitute enters only after the replaced player has left
✓Competitions may have stricter rules within these limits

Scenarios

Scenario 1

Team tries to make a sixth substitution

Foul

A team has already made five substitutions and tries to make a sixth due to an injury.

Correct call: Not permitted. The team must continue with ten players if they cannot field eleven.

Common mistake: Allowing a sixth substitution out of fairness for injury. The rules do not make exceptions for injuries beyond the five allowed.

Scenario 2

Substitute enters before replaced player leaves

Foul

A substitute runs onto the pitch before the player being replaced has fully crossed the touchline.

Correct call: The referee stops the substitute from entering and waits for the replaced player to leave. The substitute is cautioned if they deliberately entered early.

Common mistake: Allowing play to continue because it only lasted a moment. Procedure must be followed correctly.