On this page you will find the rules about The Method of Scoring. To find other rules of soccer the pull down list located at the top left corner of this page will allow for easy navigating to other soccer rules. If you wish to just download the PDF that contains all the rules, Click here. The rules of the game are subject to change so check with FIFA to ensure these rules are up to date.

Goal Scored
A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal
line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no
infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously
by the team scoring the goal.

Winning Team
The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the
winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals
are scored, the match is drawn.

Competition Rules
When competition rules require there to be a winning team after a
match has been drawn, only the following procedures, which have
been approved by the International F.A. Board, are permitted
• Away goals rule
• Extra time
• Kicks from the penalty mark

Decisions of the International F.A. Board

Decision 1
Only procedures to determine the winner of a match, which are
approved by the International F.A. Board and contained in this publication,
are permitted in competition rules.

Picture of soccer goal