In soccer, each half of the match is typically played for 45 minutes, with a brief halftime interval in between. The standard match duration is 90 minutes, during which teams aim to score goals while defending against their opponents. Additional time, known as stoppage time, can be added at the referee's discretion to account for injuries or other interruptions during each half. This structure maintains a brisk pace and encourages continuous play, making it an exciting experience for fans and players alike.