At the FIFA Club World Cup, substitutions are no longer just a formality—they’re part of the tactical chessboard. Recent rule shifts have quietly transformed how managers approach game management on the global stage.
The old three-sub rule has given way to a more flexible system, allowing clubs to better handle fatigue, momentum swings, and last-minute injuries. But with more options comes more pressure to get each call right.
Add concussion protocols, extra time and squad depth into the mix, and substitutions become a story in themselves. One well-timed switch can shift a match’s fate—or cost a team its shot at glory.
How many substitutions are allowed per match at the FIFA Club World Cup?
At the Club World Cup, substitution rules have evolved to reflect global standards and modern player welfare protocols. Under current FIFA regulations, each team is allowed up to five substitutions during regular time, spread across a maximum of three substitution windows.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates scoring a goal with James Rodriguez during the FIFA Club World Cup Japan semi-final match between Club America v Real Madrid in 2016. (Source: Matt Roberts/Getty Images)
This aligns with the rule adopted globally during the COVID-19 pandemic and later made permanent by IFAB. Substitutions made at half-time do not count toward the three-window limit, giving coaches greater flexibility.
If a match extends to extra time, teams are granted one additional substitution—bringing the total to six—as well as an extra substitution window. This allows coaches to better manage fatigue during the extended play.
Additionally, substitutions can also be made between full time and the start of extra time, and again during the interval between the two extra-time halves, without impacting substitution windows.
Teams may name up to 23 players in the matchday squad, which includes 12 substitutes. From this bench, the five (or six) eligible substitutions must be selected. This deep bench is particularly useful in a tournament where travel, schedule congestion, and diverse playing styles come into play.
Karim Benzema of Real Madrid reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup final match between Real Madrid and Kashima Antlers at International Stadium Yokohama on December 18, 2016. (Source: Matt Roberts/Getty Images)
The Club World Cup also incorporates IFAB’s concussion substitution trial. Each team is permitted one additional permanent substitution if a player is suspected of suffering a concussion. This is independent of the standard substitution quota.
Once used, the opposing team is automatically granted an extra substitution as well, in line with the principle of fairness. Compared to other competitions, it follows the same substitution model used in tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League and Copa Libertadores.
Ultimately, substitutions in the Club World Cup are more than administrative moves—they are strategic levers in a compressed, high-stakes setting. Coaches must navigate regulations smartly to stay competitive on the international stage.
