Soccer Field Layout

It is important to establish that the exact length and width in the soccer field layout are not set in stone.

FIFA has set guidelines which provide boundaries for the maximum and minimum length and width of a soccer field.

We also must bear in mind that the official sizes of a soccer field's layout may change a little over time to compensate for the increased number of spectators, as the popularity of soccer changes.

However, as of 2010 the official dimensions for a soccer field stand thus:

• Minimum length: 100 yd.
• Maximum length: 130 yd.
• Minimum width: 50 yd.
• Maximum width: 100 yd.

Though this set of guidelines works well for local playing fields, FIFA formed a separate set of guidelines for international playing fields:

• Minimum length: 110 yd.
• Maximum length: 120 yd.
• Minimum width: 70 yd.
• Maximum width: 80 yd.

The Parts of the Field

There are multiple parts in the soccer field layout. The names and measurements of the parts are given in the diagram above; I am going to give you a quick overview of what they are for.

The midline (or half-way line) divides the field in half. It is there to mark the side of the field on which a team must be when the ball is kicked off. It also plays a part in the offside rule.

The center circle is drawn around the center spot where the ball is kicked off from. The center circle is simply an area in which the defending team may not enter until the ball is kicked off.

The penalty box is the area in which the goalkeeper may handle the ball. Also, penalties committed in this area usually result in a penalty kick.

The goal box marks the area from which a goal kick is taken.

There is also a small area in each corner from which corner kicks are taken.