Extra Time in Soccer: What It Is and Why It Matters

When talking about extra time, the added period after 90 minutes in a tied knockout game. Also known as overtime, it gives both sides a fair chance to break the deadlock before resorting to penalties.

In the world of soccer, the sport where 11‑a‑side teams battle on a rectangular pitch, extra time is a rule you’ll hear about in the World Cup, Champions League and domestic cups. It sits right after regular time and before a penalty shootout, a series of spot‑kicks used to decide a winner when extra time ends level. The two 15‑minute halves create a high‑stakes sprint where fatigue, tactics and a bit of luck decide who moves on.

How Extra Time Works

Extra time always follows a full 90‑minute regulation period. If the match is part of a knockout stage or a final, the referee signals two additional 15‑minute halves. There’s usually a short break in between, but no full halftime. Teams keep the same line‑ups unless a substitution is allowed (most competitions now permit a fifth sub in extra time). The clock runs continuously, unlike stoppage time, the minutes added at the end of each half for injuries and delays, which only covers the regular 45‑minute periods.

Coaches often switch strategies for extra time. Some go all‑out, adding an extra striker to chase a goal. Others sit back, hoping to survive to penalties where the game becomes a mental showdown. Player fitness becomes critical – a fresh sprint can be the difference between a golden goal and a missed chance. That’s why many teams keep a few substitutes on the bench specifically for this phase.

Extra time also influences the tournament narrative. A dramatic late winner can become a historic moment that fans replay for years. Conversely, a match that drags into penalties after a dull extra period might feel anticlimactic, but the tension is still palpable. In any case, the existence of extra time ensures that a clear winner emerges before a shootout decides the fate.

So, whether you’re a fan tracking the latest cup run, a player learning the pacing of a knockout game, or a coach planning substitutions, understanding extra time is key. Below you’ll find a curated selection of articles that dive into real‑world examples – from last‑minute strikes to tactical breakdowns – showing how extra time reshapes outcomes across soccer’s biggest stages.