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Law 1

Law 1 — The Field of Play

Law 1 defines where the game is played: dimensions, lines, areas and all fixed equipment. It is the Law the referee applies before the ball even rolls, during the pre-match inspection.

Dimensions

International matches: 100–110 m long and 64–75 m wide. Other matches allow 90–120 m long and 45–90 m wide. The touchline must always be longer than the goal line.

The lines

All lines belong to the areas they bound. A ball is out of play only when it has wholly crossed the line, on the ground or in the air. Lines must be of the same width, no more than 12 cm.

Penalty area and goal area

The penalty area extends 16.5 m from each post and 16.5 m into the field. The goal area, 5.5 m. The penalty mark is 11 m from the midpoint of the goal line.

The goals

7.32 m wide by 2.44 m high, measured from the inside of the posts. They must be white and safely anchored; if they are not, the referee must not start the match.

Referee's decision

If the crossbar is displaced or broken, play is stopped until it is repaired. If it cannot be repaired, the match is abandoned. A rope may not be used as a replacement.

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Law 2 — The Ball →