Footy Japan 7’s tournaments follow the FIFA Laws of the Game, with the following modifications:

MATCH FORMAT

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

• Maximum squad size: 12 players

• Rolling substitutions permitted

• Substitutions must take place at the halfway line and only when the player leaving the field has done so

• Matches are played without half-time

GAME RULES

• No offside rule applies

• Goalkeepers may not punt the ball from their hands  (must throw or play from the ground)

POINTS SYSTEM

• Win – 3 points

• Draw – 1 point

• Loss – 0 points

• Bonus – 1 point awarded for scoring 3 or more goals

KNOCKOUT FORMAT

• Drawn matches proceed directly to penalties  (3 per team, then sudden death)

• Finals may include a short golden goal period where specified

DISCIPLINE

• 2 yellow cards = 1 match suspension

• Red cards result in suspension and may lead to further sanctions

Serious offences may result in suspension across all Footy Japan competitions.

GENERAL

• Teams must be ready to play at their scheduled kick-off time

• Failure to do so may result in a forfeit

• All matches are officiated by referees

• The referee’s decision on the pitch is final

For full governance, please refer to:

• Competition Rules (match format and gameplay)  
• Competition Regulations (competition administration)  

• Disciplinary Code (player conduct and sanctions) 

• Financial Regulations (fees, payments, and refunds)