The Number of Players on the Field in a Soccer Game

During a soccer match, the number of offensive and defensive players on the field varies depending on the age of the players. While adults play with the standard number per team, the US Youth Soccer recommends that children younger than age 12 play "small-sided games" -- the games involve fewer players and are played on a smaller field.

Soccer team cheering after goal. (Image: Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images)

Younger Age Divisions

For children age 6 and younger, six players are on the field -- each team consists of three players and no goalie. Eight players are on the field for children's division age 8 and younger -- four players and no goalie per team. For age 10 and younger, 12 players are on the field -- each team has six players including a goalie. Sixteen players are on the field for children's division age 12 and younger -- teams have eight players each including a goalie. The only children's division playing with full teams, 11 players per team including a goalie, is age 13 and older.

Adult Divisions

In regular adult and professional soccer matches, 22 players are on the field. The Federation Internationale de Football Association rules state that a soccer match is between two teams, with each team having no more than 11 players. One of the 11 is the goalie.