What is 5v5 football?
Guide · 4 min
5v5 football is the format that introduces real team football to U7 and U8 in Denmark. With five players per side, a medium-sized pitch and a full goalkeeper, children begin to learn positions, team tactics and combination play – all while still getting plenty of ball contact.
Rules and format for 5v5
5v5 is played with four outfield players and one goalkeeper per team. The pitch is typically 40 x 30 metres, and it is played with full goals and a goalkeeper. The rules resemble normal football with offside, throw-ins and corners – but adapted to the age group. Matches typically last 2 x 12–15 minutes, and a tournament usually includes 3–6 matches per team.
What do children learn from 5v5?
5v5 is the first format that introduces actual positions. Children begin to understand defending, attacking and the role of midfield. The format demands communication and combination play – and there is still enough ball contact for individual technique to develop. It's the perfect middle ground between 3v3's pure joy of the ball and 7v7's full team tactics.
When is 5v5 used?
5v5 is the standard format for U7 and U8 in Denmark. From U9, most teams switch to 7v7. Some U9 teams do choose to take part in 5v5 tournaments if they prefer the more technical format. 5v5 is also used for indoor tournaments for slightly older years, as the half-pitch size suits sports halls well.
How to find 5v5 tournaments
Find all current 5v5 tournaments for U7 and U8 on Matchbase. Filter by age group and see every tournament with date, location and sign-up status. Sign your team up directly and be ready for the next tournament weekend.
Frequently asked questions
What is 5v5 football?
5v5 football is a format with 5 players per team (4 outfield players + goalkeeper) on a medium-sized pitch. It is the standard format for U7 and U8 in Danish football.
What is the pitch size in 5v5?
A 5v5 pitch is typically 40 x 30 metres, but can vary from tournament to tournament. It is significantly larger than 3v3 but smaller than 7v7.
Is there offside in 5v5?
The offside rule generally applies in 5v5, but many tournaments for the youngest years choose to play without offside to encourage attacking play and activity.