When it comes to setting up a 7-a-side football pitch, understanding the correct dimensions is crucial for fair and enjoyable play. According to FA guidelines, the standard size for a 7-a-side football pitch is 60 yards (54.87m) in length and 40 yards (36.58m) in width. These dimensions provide the optimal space for 14 players to compete comfortably while maintaining the core elements of the beautiful game.
Some variations exist in the football world, with certain organisations recommending slightly different measurements. For instance, some 7v7 pitches may be set up at 40 x 20 metres, particularly for younger age groups or when space is limited. The goals for 7-a-side should typically be 12ft wide, significantly smaller than the full-sized 11-a-side goals but proportionate to the reduced playing area.
Whether you call it football or soccer, the reduced pitch size in 7-a-side creates a faster-paced game with more frequent touches for each player. This format has become increasingly popular at grassroots level across the UK, offering an accessible alternative to the traditional 11-a-side format while still preserving the fundamental skills and tactics of football.
7-A-Side Football Pitch Dimensions
Seven-a-side football requires specific pitch dimensions that balance adequate playing space with the reduced number of players. The standardized measurements ensure fair and consistent play while allowing for the faster-paced nature of the smaller-sided game.
Overall Pitch Measurements
The FA recommends that 7-a-side football pitches should measure between 45-55 metres in length and 27.3-38.3 metres in width. Many standard 7v7 pitches are typically set up at 60 yards (54.9m) long by 40 yards (36.6m) wide, though dimensions can vary.
Mini-pitches designed for 7-a-side football often use the 40m x 20m configuration, which provides adequate space for gameplay while maintaining the intensity of the smaller format.
Goals for 7-a-side are smaller than regulation 11-a-side goals, typically measuring 5m wide by 2m high. This reduced size is proportional to the smaller playing area and fewer players.
The centre circle is also scaled down appropriately, usually with a radius of 5-7 metres from the centre spot.
Marking the Boundaries
Proper boundary markings are essential for 7-a-side pitches. The pitch should be clearly defined with visible sidelines and goal lines using chalk, paint, or tape depending on the surface.
The penalty area is typically marked as a rectangular box extending 9 metres from each goal post and 9 metres into the pitch of play. This creates a clearly defined area for goalkeepers and penalty situations.
Corner arcs should be marked with a 1-metre radius from each corner. These markings ensure proper placement for corner kicks.
Many 7-a-side pitches incorporate a "retreat line" marked across the pitch, typically 12 metres from each goal line. This line is used in youth soccer to encourage playing out from the back.
The halfway line must be clearly marked, dividing the pitch into two equal halves with a centre spot for kick-offs.
Goal Area and Penalty Box Details
The goal area and penalty box are critical markings on a 7-a-side football pitch that define important gameplay zones. Each area has specific dimensions and serves distinct purposes during matches, with measurements adapted from standard 11-a-side pitches to suit the smaller playing format.
Goal Area Specifications
The goal area, sometimes called the "6-yard box" in standard football, is proportionally smaller on 7-a-side pitches. This rectangular zone extends 5.5 metres (approximately 18 feet) out from the goalposts and reaches 5.5 metres into the pitch.
The area is centered on the goal line and serves multiple functions. Goal kicks must be taken from within this area. When defending players commit certain fouls inside this zone, the opposing team may be awarded an indirect free kick.
7-a-side football goals are positioned centrally along the goal line, with standard dimensions typically smaller than full-sized goals. The goalposts and crossbar create the frame within which the ball must pass to score.
Penalty Area Specifics
The penalty area (commonly known as "the box") in 7v7 football is a larger rectangle that encompasses the goal area. According to International Football Association guidelines, on 7-a-side pitches, this area typically extends 12-13 metres from the goal line.
The width of the penalty box spans approximately 28-30 metres, though dimensions can vary slightly between different 7-a-side formats. This area serves as the zone where the goalkeeper can handle the ball legally.
Any fouls committed by defenders within this area may result in a penalty kick. The penalty spot is positioned 9 metres from the goal line in most 7-a-side setups, directly in line with the centre of the goal.
The penalty area's dimensions provide enough space for attacking play while allowing defenders reasonable area to challenge without conceding penalties. These proportions maintain balanced gameplay despite the smaller pitch size.
Additional Pitch Features
Beyond basic dimensions, 7-a-side football pitches incorporate specialised markings that facilitate proper gameplay and ensure fair competition. These features help maintain gameplay structure while accommodating the smaller pitch size.
Corner Kick Area
The corner kick area on a 7-a-side pitch is notably different from standard 11-a-side pitches. Instead of the traditional quarter circle, most 7-a-side pitches feature a small arc with a radius of 0.5-1 metre from the corner flag.
This compact design suits the smaller dimensions of the 7v7 format while still providing adequate space for players to take corner kicks. The reduced size helps prevent congestion in the corner areas during set pieces.
Most official guidelines recommend corner flags that stand at least 1.5 metres tall to ensure visibility across the pitch. In some recreational facilities, the corner areas may be marked with cones rather than permanent flags, particularly on multi-use surfaces.
Free Throw Arc
The free throw arc (sometimes called the penalty arc) on a 7-a-side pitch typically extends 5 metres from the penalty spot. This distance is proportionally scaled down from the 9.15 metres used in full-size soccer pitches.
The arc serves the same purpose as in the standard game—ensuring opposing players maintain proper distance during penalty kicks. Players must remain outside this marked area until the ball is struck.
Unlike full-size pitches, many 7-a-side facilities use a semi-circle rather than a complete arc, particularly when space is limited. The penalty spot itself is typically positioned 7 metres from the goal line, compared to the 11 metres used in standard football.
Most leagues require this arc to be clearly marked with either painted lines or temporary markers to assist referees in enforcing proper positioning during set pieces.
