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Mini soccer u7 5v5 retreat line rule

Steven Brown

Morning everyone

I want to seek clarity on the retreat line rule. There’s mixed opinions within the comments but I would like to confirm the following scenario. 

1) When the keeper has it in their hands from open play does the retreat line rule apply

2) is the retreat line the halfway line. I’ve seen articles suggesting it’s an imaginary line around 1/3 into the opposing teams half. 

If anyone can quote the rule and/or an extract that would be great

Thanks in advance 

Steve

  • 0

    Hi Steve,

    I've always been told that the retreat line is only in play on goal kicks, not when the GK is holding it / doing a drop kick. Never been questioned by this and our opponents always play by this same rule. 

    Hope that helps Steve.

    Thanks,

    Max

  • 0

    In addition sorry Steve, the retreat line is to the half way line on said goal kicks - never heard of the 'imaginary' 1/3 line??

    Thanks,

    Max

  • 0 in reply to Max Eldred

    Nice one Max thank you that’s what I thought however we got challenged regarding that at the weekend by the opposing coach so I delved deeper into it do see a few comments stating it does exist from open play to encourage teams to play out from the back and that League rules can differ slightly from FA rules 

    anyway I’ll continue with the same view as yourself. Thanks again

  • 0

    The retreat line rule in U7/U8 5v5 is often misunderstood because different leagues word it slightly differently. Under standard FA mini-soccer guidance, it applies only to restarts from the defending team’s goal kicks or goal clearances, not to open play situations. When the goalkeeper has the ball in their hands during play, normal pressing is allowed and opponents do not need to retreat.

    In most formats the retreat line is set at the halfway line for simplicity. The purpose is to give young players space to play out from the back during goal kick situations and reduce constant pressing at that age group. Once the ball is put back into play and an opponent touches it or possession becomes open, the restriction ends immediately.

    Some local leagues adapt wording, creating confusion. At a grassroots session linked with Barcelona Premier Soccer Club(https://www.google.com/maps/place/?cid=346563711391498099), it was confirmed that teams often agree pre-match on strictness for consistency. Even at venues such as , interpretations can vary by league. Overall: goal kicks only, retreat to halfway line unless rules state otherwise.