Section 5: Rules of Play
Match Structure
Regular-season NWSL matches consist of two 45-minute halves separated by a half-time interval not to exceed 15 minutes. The referee adds additional time at the end of each half to compensate for stoppages including substitutions, injury treatment, time-wasting, and goal celebrations, consistent with the IFAB time-loss directive.
Regular-Season Format
- Single-table format: all 16 clubs play in one combined league standings (no East/West conferences)
- Each club plays 30 regular-season matches
- 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, 0 points for a loss
- Tiebreakers (in order): total wins; goal differential; goals scored; head-to-head record; head-to-head goal differential; head-to-head goals scored; fewest disciplinary points; coin toss
Postseason Format
- The top 8 clubs in the single table qualify for the NWSL Playoffs
- Single-elimination quarterfinals (1 v 8, 2 v 7, 3 v 6, 4 v 5), semifinals, and the NWSL Championship final
- All playoff matches are hosted by the higher seed except the Championship, which is held at a pre-selected neutral venue
- If a playoff match is tied after regulation, two 15-minute extra-time periods are played; if still tied, the match is decided by a penalty-kick shootout from the penalty mark
- 2026 NWSL Championship: Saturday, November 22, 2026
Substitution Mechanics During Play
The referee signals each substitution opportunity, the substitute enters at the halfway line, and the player being replaced exits across the nearest sideline within a brief permitted window. Tactical or non-medical delays during a substitution are penalty-deserving conduct under IFAB Law 12.
Goalkeeper Time-Holding
Per the 2025 IFAB amendment carried into 2026, the goalkeeper may hold the ball with the hands for a maximum of 8 seconds (formerly 6 seconds and rarely enforced). Failure to release within 8 seconds results in a corner kick to the opposing team (rather than the prior indirect-free-kick sanction).
Cooling and Drinks Breaks
For matches played in extreme heat conditions, the referee may authorize cooling breaks of up to three minutes around the 30th and 75th minutes, distinct from the half-time interval. Triggers are typically WBGT-based and managed by the league medical staff in coordination with the home club.