Futsal, although similar to soccer, is more like indoor soccer with a few special changes for indoor play. The field is much smaller, about the size of a basketball court (25"x15"), and, unlike indoor soccer, futsal uses touch boundaries instead of dasherboards. The 5v5 match consists of two 20 minute halves using a stopped watch system instead of the running watch we are used to in regulation soccer. A #4 ball (instead of #5) is used because of its low bounce properties. Clearly, because of the touch boundaries and special ball, futsal focuses more on ball control and creative plays in a tight area.
Here’s a quicker run-down of the differences in common standards between Futsal and Soccer:
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Soccer
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Futsal
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#5 ball
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#4 ball - 30% less bounce
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11 players
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5 players per side (including goal keeper)
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3 substitutions
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Unlimited, "flying" substitutions
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Throw-in
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Kick-in
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45 minute halves
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20 minute halves
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No time-outs
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1 time-out per half
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Goal kicks
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Goal Clearance (throw)
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Some contact
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No shoulder charges or sliding tackles
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No absolute time limit to restart game
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4-second rule on restarts
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Offside rule
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No offside rule
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Goalkeeper steps
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No restrictions, but limited to 4 seconds
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Goalkeeper cannot touch by hand a ball kicked back
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Goalkeeper cannot touch by hand a ball played back
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Unlimited back passes to Goalkeeper
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One back pass to Goalkeeper
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No sub for player sent off
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Player sent off can be substituted for after 2 minutes or other has scored
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Corner kick placed in arch
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Corner kick placed on corner
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Official USSF Futsal Site
For those curious, here’s a highlights reel from the 2008 FIFA Futsal World Cup where Brazil played Spain.
FIFA Futsal World Cup 2008 - Brazil vs. Spain
UEFA.com has put up a training video with some futsal play tips.
UEFA Training Ground - Futsal Formations
