How Many Players Are Needed in Soccer? | Understanding Positions

Image by Penrith RSL Soccer Club

When you're just starting out, watching or playing soccer can get pretty confusing. But once you understand your soccer team's structure, it all makes sense. Every player has a specific job and works together like a well-oiled machine. This guide is here to break it all down for you, starting with the big question: how many players are needed in soccer? After that, we’ll dive into everyone's role on the pitch. 

Key Takeaways 

• How Many Players: A standard soccer team has 11 players on the field. Smaller games and youth leagues often include 5 to 7 players.
• Key Soccer Positions: Every player has a specific job, from the goalkeeper who protects the goal to the striker who scores, and the midfielder who runs the game.
• Grab the Right Kit: Having the right gear for your position is key to success. Check out Summit Sport for all the soccer equipment you need, all in one place. 

How Many Players Do You Need to Play Soccer? 

A standard soccer team needs 11 players on the field to start a match, but the total number of players can change depending on the type of game. 

• Standard Team Size: A full-size soccer team consists of 11 players on each side, which includes one goalkeeper and ten outfield players.
• Game Format: While 11 v 11 is the most common format, the number of players can vary in smaller-sided games like youth leagues (often 7 v 7) or informal 5-a-side matches.
• Substitutes: Teams can use substitutes to replace players on the field during a match, with the number of allowed substitutions varying based on the competition. 

What Does the Goalkeeper Do in Soccer? 

The goalkeeper is the team's last line of defence. Their main job is to protect the goal and stop the opposing team from scoring. The goalkeeper is the only player allowed to use their hands to touch the ball, and only within their own penalty area. 

Because of their essential role in protecting the goal, goalkeepers need specialist equipment like gloves, padded jerseys, and shin guards. We recommend: 

• ALFA Pro Fingersave Goalkeeper Gloves: Essential for grip, padding, and protecting your hands from hard shots.
• KELME Long Sleeve Goalkeeper Set: Used to absorb the impact of dives and falls.
• A-League Slip In Soccer Shin Guards: Protects your legs from collisions and stray kicks. 

Goalie's need gloves and padded gear to protect them. Image by Vision Football.

What Do Strikers Do in Soccer? 

If you want to know what strikers do in soccer, the answer is simple: they score goals! Strikers, also known as forwards, are the players who lead the team's attack. Their main job is to put the ball in the back of the net, but they also work to create opportunities for their teammates to score. It's all about speed, positioning, and finishing skills. Invest in a quality soccer ball and training equipment like cones to practice your dribbling and shooting. 

What Do Midfielders Do in Soccer? 

Think of midfielders as the engine of the team. They link the defence and the attack. Their main job is to control the game, keep possession, and get the ball to their teammates. Midfielders need great stamina, vision, and passing skills to cover so much ground and find open players. The right pair of soccer boots can deliver the acceleration and stability midfielders need. 

What Do Defenders Do in Soccer? 

A defender's job is simple: protect the goal from the other team's attackers. This involves smart positioning, winning tackles, and blocking shots to get the ball back. Defenders also help start the attack by passing the ball forward. They're the invaluable backbone of the team and the last essential line of defence. While all players wear and need them, defenders particularly benefit from solid shin guards to tackle with confidence. 

Why Understanding Player Roles is Important 

Knowing the different player roles in soccer is one of the quickest ways to improve your game and understand what's happening on the pitch. 

• Boosts Your Skills: Understanding your soccer position helps you focus your practice on the specific skills you need to master.
• Elevates Team Performance: It helps the team work together more smoothly and anticipate plays.
• Supports New Players: Learning the basic roles makes the game less confusing and helps new players and parents feel more confident. 

Player Numbers: Soccer players are often assigned numbers that correspond to their position. While it's not a strict rule, you'll often see the goalkeeper wearing number 1, defenders with numbers 2-5, and strikers with number 9 or 10. This can help you identify a player's role on the field at a glance. 

Summit Sport’s Soccer Equipment for Every Position 

Here at Summit Sport, we know having the right gear makes all the difference. With 30 years of experience, we've designed our premium collection of soccer gear with you in mind. We’re proud to support local schools and clubs, growing the game from the grassroots up. Ready to find the perfect gear for your position? Check out our full soccer collection and kick off with confidence!