You may look at our site and think – why are there so many different goal sizes available?
It’s all down to the football goal size guidelines that have been laid out by the Football Association (FA) and Scottish Football Association (SFA) to support children’s development. This is your definitive guide to FA-approved football goal sizes, so you can get the right goal for your game.
Why does the FA have football goal size guidelines for different age groups?
Children need to play football that matches their level of physical development. Just as the ball is scaled, and the length of a game is adjusted, it’s important to have a pitch that is sized appropriately for the players – and this includes the goalposts. It allows players to enjoy a game that is appropriate for their age, as it helps them develop skills and understanding, without having to play on pitches that are too demanding.
So there is standardisation across the country, the FA and SFA have set down guidelines for youth football goal sizes, and these come into play when playing affiliated football matches organised by a club or league that’s registered with the FA.
What size football goal should be used for each age group?
The goal size you need is linked to the number of players on a side. For instance, the 16×7 (16×6 in Scotland) is used for the 9v9 game played by U11s and U12s.
Football goal size for children under 7
Starting in the 2026/2027 season, youngsters under the age of 7 play 3v3 matches. These games require specially sized 3v3 goals measuring 4ft x 2.5ft.
Football goal size for ages 7 and 8
The FA recommends U7s and U8s play 5v5 Mini Soccer; the under 8 football goal size is a 12ft x 6ft (3.7m x 1.8m) goal.
Football goal size for ages 9 and 10
U9s and U10s move up to 7-a-side games, but the 12ft x 6ft goal (16ft x 6ft in Scotland) is still the correct under 10 football goal size.
Football goal size for ages 11 and 12
U11s and U12s play 9-a-side; the under 12 football goal size is 16ft x 7ft (4.9m x 2.1m) (16ft x 6ft in Scotland).
Football goal size for ages 13 and 14
As they hit their teenage years, children start playing full 11v11 games, and the 21ft x 7ft (6.4m x 2.1m) is the under 14 football goal size.
Football goal size for ages 15 and over
Once young people hit 15, they move up to the full-sized 24ft x 8ft (7.3m x 2.4m) goalposts.
Where can I buy FA-approved football goals for my youth team?
MH Goals sells the full range of sized goals in different formats, including folding goals, socketed goals, self-weighted goals and lift-and-lower goals. Fully compliant with the latest safety regulations and approved for Football Foundation grants, get in touch with us, and we’ll help you find the goals that are perfect for your ground.