How long is a match, and who decides added time?

Q: How long is a match, and who decides added time?

Under NSL Handbook Rule 13, every PSL match is two halves of 45 minutes with a 15-minute half-time interval. The referee is the sole judge of time, including added time. Under IFAB Law 7 (2026/27), the referee adds time for substitutions, injuries, time-wasting, cards, drinks breaks, goal celebrations and other delays. The fourth official shows the minimum added time at the end of each half; the referee can add more but not less. Each match has a referee, two assistant referees and a fourth official. The referees and assistant referees are appointed by SAFA from the League panel (Rule 20).

Question

Accepted Answer

Under NSL Handbook Rule 13, every PSL match is two halves of 45 minutes with a 15-minute half-time interval. The referee is the sole judge of time, including added time.

Under IFAB Law 7 (2026/27), the referee adds time for substitutions, injuries, time-wasting, cards, drinks breaks, goal celebrations and other delays. The fourth official shows the minimum added time at the end of each half; the referee can add more but not less.

Each match has a referee, two assistant referees and a fourth official. The referees and assistant referees are appointed by SAFA from the League panel (Rule 20).