Introduction

The size of the soccer field plays a major role in how the game is taught and played. Proper field dimensions ensure players experience the right balance of space, speed, and decision-making at every age. Smaller fields promote more touches, faster reactions, and more meaningful involvement — all essential for player development.

This guide breaks down the recommended field sizes, goal sizes, and player space ratios for each format: 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11.

🟦 7v7 Field Dimensions

Recommended For: U8–U10

  • Outfield Players (Per Team): 6
  • Field Size: 30–40 yards (width) x 45–55 yards (length)
  • Ideal Size: 35 x 50 yards
  • Goal Size: 6.5 ft (height) x 18.5 ft (width)
  • Penalty Area: 10 x 20 yards
  • Center Circle Radius: 6 yards
  • Recommended Player Space: ~115–125 sq yards per outfield player
  • Game Time: 2 x 25 minutes (varies by league)

🟩 9v9 Field Dimensions

Recommended For: U11–U12

  • Outfield Players (Per Team): 8
  • Field Size: 45–55 yards (width) x 70–80 yards (length)
  • Ideal Size: 50 x 75 yards
  • Goal Size: 6.5 ft (height) x 18.5 ft (width)
  • Penalty Area: 14 x 35 yards
  • Center Circle Radius: 8 yards
  • Recommended Player Space: ~130–140 sq yards per outfield player
  • Game Time: 2 x 30 minutes (varies by league)

🔵 11v11 Field Dimensions

Recommended For: U13+

  • Outfield Players (Per Team): 10
  • Field Size (FIFA Standard): 70–80 yards (width) x 110–120 yards (length)
  • Ideal Size: 74 x 115 yards
  • Goal Size: 8 ft (height) x 24 ft (width)
  • Penalty Area: 18 x 44 yards
  • Center Circle Radius: 10 yards
  • Recommended Player Space: ~135 sq yards per outfield player
  • Game Time: 2 x 35–45 minutes (based on age)

Adjusting Field Sizes in Training

Sometimes it’s appropriate to increase or decrease field size based on training focus:

  • Smaller Field = Increases technical demand and decision speed; ideal for tight combinations, rondos, 1v1s, and pressing drills
  • Larger Field = Increases physical load, space recognition, and timing; great for transition games, switching play, and conditioning

Use the player space formula:
🧮 Approx. 11.5 x 7.4 yards per outfield player = realistic match spacing

Small-Sided Game Examples:

1v1 or 2v2 Training Field

  • Recommended Size: 12 x 7 yards per team → 12 x 14 yards total
  • Focus: 1v1 defending, tight space decisions, high repetition dribbling/finishing
  • Note: 1v1 and 2v2 use the same space allocation — simply adjust intensity or rotation as needed.

3v3 Training Field

  • Recommended Size: 12 x 7 yards per team → 24 x 14 yards total
  • Focus: Small-group passing, spacing, pressing, and transitions

Adjust based on goals: If using larger goals, increase length slightly; if emphasizing quick decisions, keep it tight.