5-a-Side vs 7-a-Side vs 11-a-Side: Which is Right for You?
Breaking down the differences between 5-a-side, 7-a-side and 11-a-side football to help you find the right game.
Whether you're looking to get back into football, find a regular kickabout, or organise your own games, this guide has everything you need to know about casual football in the UK.
5-a-Side vs 7-a-Side vs 11-a-Side: Quick Comparison
| Format | Players | Pitch Size | Best For | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-a-Side | 10 (5 per team) | Small (usually 3G/astro) | After-work games, quick kickabouts | £3-£8 per person |
| 7-a-Side | 14 (7 per team) | Medium | Weekend games, more space | £4-£10 per person |
| 11-a-Side | 22 (11 per team) | Full-size | Traditional football experience | £5-£12 per person |
5-a-Side: The Most Popular Choice
5-a-side is the go-to format for casual football, and for good reason:
Why Choose 5-a-Side?
- Easier to organise - Only need 10 players total
- More touches - With fewer players, everyone gets more involved
- Faster pace - Quick, intense games perfect for fitness
- Widely available - Most facilities cater to 5-a-side
- Flexible - Can play with 8-12 players if numbers fluctuate
What to Expect
5-a-side games are usually played on smaller pitches (often 3G or astro turf) at dedicated facilities. Games typically last 40-60 minutes, with short breaks. The pace is fast, and it's great for improving your touch and fitness.
Most 5-a-side games are mixed ability, though some organisers specify beginner-friendly or competitive levels. Check the game description before signing up.
7-a-Side: The Middle Ground
7-a-side offers a nice balance between 5-a-side intensity and 11-a-side space:
Why Choose 7-a-Side?
- More space - Room to play without the intensity of 5-a-side
- Still manageable - Easier to fill than 11-a-side
- Great for fitness - More running than 5-a-side, less than 11-a-side
- Versatile - Can adapt to 6-a-side or 8-a-side if needed
What to Expect
7-a-side games are usually played on medium-sized pitches, often at local sports centres or larger facilities. You'll need 14 players, though games can work with 12-16 players. The pace is still fast but gives you more time on the ball than 5-a-side.
11-a-Side: The Full Experience
11-a-side is less common for casual games but offers the traditional football experience:
Why Choose 11-a-Side?
- Traditional format - The classic football experience
- More tactical - Room for different formations and strategies
- Great for fitness - Full-size pitch means lots of running
- Team building - Requires more coordination and teamwork
What to Expect
11-a-side games require 22 players and are usually played on full-size pitches at local sports centres or parks. Games typically last 60-90 minutes. These games are less common for casual play but you'll find some groups organising regular 11-a-side kickabouts, especially on weekends.
Due to the number of players needed, 11-a-side games often require more planning and commitment from organisers and players.
Which Format Should You Choose?
Choose 5-a-Side If:
- You want the easiest format to organise
- You prefer fast-paced, intense games
- You're looking for after-work or quick weekend kickabouts
- You want maximum touches and involvement
Choose 7-a-Side If:
- You want more space than 5-a-side
- You can gather 12-16 players regularly
- You want something between casual and competitive
Choose 11-a-Side If:
- You want the traditional football experience
- You have a large, committed group
- You prefer more tactical, structured games
- You're organising weekend games with plenty of notice
For most casual players, 5-a-side is the best starting point. It's the easiest to organise, most widely available, and perfect for getting regular football into your routine.
Get Started Today
Ready to find your next kickabout in the UK? Join Football Hub UK today and start connecting with players in your area.
Whether you're looking to join games or organise your own, we're here to help you get the most out of casual football. Sign up with your email and location, and you'll be notified when new games go live.
See you on the pitch!