7-on-7 Soccer Rules – Muslim Sports Day

Format:

Single Elimination

  • Teams are eliminated after one loss

  • Winning teams advance through a randomly drawn bracket

  • A 3rd place match may be played between semifinal losers

  • Forfeits result in an automatic win for the opponent

Team Composition:

  • 7 players on the field per team (including the goalkeeper)

  • Max roster size: 10 players

  • All players must be registered before their first game

  • Teams must be single-gender only

  • Substitutions allowed only during stoppages in play (throw-ins, goal kicks, after a goal) with referee approval

  • No guest players or roster changes after the first match

 

Match Format:

  • Two halves of 15 minutes each (running clock)

  • 5-minute halftime

  • No extra time unless in knockout rounds

  • If tied in knockout matches:

    • 3-player penalty shootout

    • If still tied, sudden-death penalties

Rules of Play:

  • Standard FIFA small-sided rules apply unless modified below

  • Offside rule does NOT apply

  • Slide tackling is NOT allowed – automatic indirect free kick, possible card

  • Kick-ins instead of throw-ins

  • All free kicks are indirect

  • Goalkeepers may use hands only inside their box

  • No punting or drop-kicking by goalkeepers; ball must be rolled or passed

  • Minimum of 5 players required to start a game

  • If a team is more than 5 minutes late, it forfeits

Code of Conduct:

  • Respectful, modest, and Islamic behavior is required at all times

  • Only team captains may discuss calls with referees

  • Aggressive behavior, foul language, or dissent may result in:

    • Verbal warning

    • Yellow card (2 = red card)

    • Red card = ejection and suspension for next game

  • No alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances allowed

  • Unsportsmanlike behavior may result in team disqualification

 

Uniform & Equipment:

  • Players must wear modest athletic attire

  • Matching jerseys are not required, but teams should try to wear similar-colored tops or bring a backup shirt

  • Cleats are allowed but not required (no metal studs)

  • Shin guards highly recommended

  • Tournament provides official soccer balls

 

Dispute Resolution:

  • Neutral referee/match supervisor manages each game

  • Disputes must be raised by captains immediately

If unresolved, the Organizing Committee will make the final decision