What is the minimum number of players, and what kit should I check?
Rule- England
- England Football
- Youth football
- Mini-soccer
- Under 7-Under 18
- Laws of the Game
- 2026/27
- Referees
Minimum players for a youth or mini-soccer league match (FA Standard Code of Rules):
| Format | Minimum players |
|---|---|
| 3v3 | 2 |
| 5v5 | 4 |
| 7v7 | 5 |
| 9v9 | 6 |
| 11v11 | 7 |
Kit checks
- Shin pads are compulsory and must be fully covered by knee-length socks.
- No jewellery (Law 4).
- Footwear suitable for the surface, with no metal studs on 3G or artificial grass.
- No hoodies in mini-soccer.
- Goalkeepers must wear colours that distinguish them from all other players and the match officials. No player, including the goalkeeper, may wear black or very dark shirts.
- If the two teams' colours are the same or similar in your opinion, the team named in the league's rules must change.
The FA expects referees to allow clothing worn as a requirement of a player's faith.
Added 21 Oct 2026