The match lasts two equal periods of 45 minutes, unless otherwise mutually agreed between the referee and the two participating teams. Any agreement to alter the periods of play (for example to reduce each half to 40 minutes because of insufficient light) must be made before the start of play and must comply with competition rules.

Players are entitled to an interval at half-time. The half-time interval must not exceed 15 minutes. Competition rules must state the duration of the half-time interval. The duration of the half-time interval may be altered only with the consent of the referee.

Allowance is made in either period for all time lost through:

• substitution(s)
• assessment of injury to players
• removal of injured players from the field of play for treatment
• wasting time
• any other cause

The allowance for time lost is at the discretion of the referee.

If a penalty kick has to be taken or retaken, the duration of either half is extended until the penalty kick is completed.

Competition rules may provide for two further equal periods to be played. The conditions of Law 8 will apply.

An abandoned match is replayed unless the competition rules provide otherwise.

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