What is the retreat line, and how does it work?
Rule- England
- England Football
- Mini-soccer
- Under 8
- Under 9
- Under 10
- Under 11
- 5v5 and 7v7
- 2026/27
- Coaches
The retreat line applies in all mini-soccer (Under 7 to Under 11) in 2026/27.
- When a goal kick is taken, the team without the ball must retreat into its own half (the halfway line is the retreat line) and stay there until the ball is in play.
- The ball is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves. The defending team can then press to win it back.
- A goal kick can be taken from anywhere in the penalty area and by any player on the team with the ball, not just the goalkeeper.
- There's no offside in mini-soccer, so players can be anywhere on the pitch at any time except when the retreat line is in force.
The FA's reasoning: giving the team in possession time and space encourages them to play out from the back rather than kick long. The FA's insights show it increases passing sequences and technical involvement.
The retreat line stops at Under 12 (9v9).
Added 21 Oct 2026