Toronto Futsal Cup — Key Rules & Format

1. Match Structure

  • Teams: 5 players per side (4 outfield + 1 goalkeeper).

  • Substitutions: Unlimited, rolling substitutions throughout the game.

  • Match Duration: Two 20-minute halves (stopped clock).

  • Half-Time: Maximum 15 minutes.

  • Timeouts: One 1-minute timeout per team, per half.

2. Ball & Equipment

  • Ball: Size 4, low-bounce futsal ball.

  • Footwear: Flat, indoor-specific shoes only (no cleats).

  • Uniforms: All players must wear numbered shirts. Goalkeepers must wear colours distinct from other players.

3. The Court

  • Surface: Flat, hard, non-abrasive indoor surface.

  • Dimensions: Approx. 38–42 m long × 20–25 m wide.

  • Goal Size: 3 m wide × 2 m high.

  • Penalty Area: 6 m semi-circle from each goal.

4. Kick-Off & Restarts

  • Kick-off starts play at the beginning of each half and after goals.

  • Opponents must remain 3 m away from the ball on restarts.

  • Kick-ins replace throw-ins; the ball must be stationary and placed on the line.

  • Goalkeepers may not receive the ball back directly from a teammate after distributing it.

5. Fouls & Free Kicks

  • Each team is allowed five team fouls per half.

  • After the fifth, every foul results in a second-penalty shot (10 m mark) with no defensive wall.

  • Sliding tackles are permitted only if no opponent is endangered.

  • Persistent or reckless fouling may result in cautions or dismissals.

6. Discipline

  • Yellow Card: Caution for unsporting behaviour, dissent, or delaying play.

  • Red Card: Player must leave the court; team plays short for 2 minutes or until the opposing team scores.

  • Accumulated misconduct may lead to suspension from later matches.

7. Goalkeeper Rules

  • Can hold the ball for 4 seconds maximum in their own half.

  • After releasing, may not touch the ball again until it crosses halfway or is touched by an opponent.

  • Can score directly only from their own half.

8. Scoring & Results

  • Standard scoring: 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw.

  • Group standings determined by points, then goal difference, goals scored, and head-to-head results.

  • Knockout ties go directly to penalty shootout (no extra time unless otherwise stated).

9. Player Conduct

  • Respect between players, referees, and staff is mandatory.

  • Any violent conduct, verbal abuse, or damage to property will result in expulsion and potential tournament ban.

10. Reference

For complete details, refer to the official
FIFA Futsal Laws of the Game 2024-25 (PDF).