A World Cup soccer game is 90 minutes of regulation time, split into two 45-minute halves, with a 15-minute halftime break. In practice, it usually runs a bit longer because the referee adds stoppage time, and knockout matches can go to 30 minutes of extra time plus penalties if needed.

Quick Scoop

  • Group stage: 90 minutes, plus stoppage time.
  • Knockout stage: 90 minutes, then extra time if tied.
  • Extra time: Two 15-minute halves.
  • Penalties: Used if the match is still tied after extra time.

A simple way to think about it: the clock says 90 minutes , but the real- world viewing time is often closer to about two hours once halftime and stoppage time are included.