What is the maximum number of substitutions allowed in a standard soccer match?

In a standard soccer match, the introduction of 5 substitutions has become a widely accepted practice since the allowances provided during the COVID-19 pandemic. This change was implemented to help teams manage player fatigue and injuries due to a congested match schedule. Originally, teams were limited to 3 substitutions per match, but the adjustment to 5 allows for more tactical flexibility and player rotation without disrupting the flow of the game excessively.

This increased limit means that during a match, coaches can strategically replace players, thereby maintaining high levels of performance and ensuring that players are not overworked. Additionally, the rules state that if a match goes into extra time, an additional substitution can be used, which can further benefit teams needing to manage player stamina in critical moments.

The other options reflect older regulations or specific formats that may not apply to current standard play or specific tournaments. Thus, knowing that 5 substitutions are allowed under the current standard rules of soccer is essential for understanding modern game management.