Substitutions
In official world cup soccer teams are only allowed three substitutions per game. For most youth leagues usually there is no cap on the number of subs allowed during game play. There are however, certain rules as to when a substitution can only be performed. Substitutions can only be made when the ball is not in play and your team has possession. For example, when there is s a throw in for your team or on a goal kick for either team. Substitutions cannot be made when the ball is in play (even if your goalie has the ball in his/her hands.. this is still in play). This is different if your playing futsal* rules. Players waiting to be subbed in should stand at the mid-field line and wait for the referee to motion them in.
When Substitutions Can be made
•When the ball is not in play and your team has possession on a throw in. In many youth leagues, if the team with possession makes a substitution, the referee will allow all subs on the field, but not always.
•On goal kicks both teams may make substitutions
•After a goal is scored and before game play begins.
•On goal kicks both teams may make substitutions
•After a goal is scored and before game play begins.
WHEN SUBTITUTIONS CanNot BE MADE
•When the ball is in play. Even if the goalie has possession of the ball, substitutions cannot be made.
•On corner kicks.
•On penalty kicks, unless there is an injured player on the field. Only the injured player may come off and have another player sub in for him/her.
•On corner kicks.
•On penalty kicks, unless there is an injured player on the field. Only the injured player may come off and have another player sub in for him/her.
*Futsal is indoor soccer played with fewer players and has a different set of rules.