how many substitutes are allowed in soccer

In standard professional soccer, each team is allowed 5 substitutes per match, usually across 3 stoppages in play, with halftime not counting as one of those stoppages.

Quick Scoop

• Regular match: 5 substitutions per team.

• Stoppages: Usually only 3 substitution windows during the match, plus halftime.

• Extra time: Some competitions allow an additional substitute and window in extra time.

• Other competitions: Youth, amateur, and small-sided formats can use different rules.

Simple example

A coach might make 2 changes at minute 60, 2 more at minute 75, and 1 at minute 88. That uses all 5 substitutes, but only 3 stoppages.

Small note

The exact number can vary by league or tournament, so the competition rules always matter.