how many substitutes are allowed in football

In football (soccer), teams are currently allowed to make up to five substitutions during a standard 90-minute match. These five substitutions must be made within a maximum of three separate substitution opportunities during the game, excluding halftime when substitutions can be made without using a substitution opportunity. If the match goes into extra time, one additional substitution is allowed, making a total of six substitutions possible in extended play. This five-substitute rule was initially introduced as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic but has since become permanent due to its benefits for player welfare and match management. Additionally, concussion substitutes may be allowed beyond these limits for player safety, and players who have been substituted normally cannot return to play in that match.