clubfriendly

Clubfriendly, often written as club-friendly, is a term used in association football to describe a non-competitive match between two clubs. Such matches are organized outside official league or cup competition and do not count toward league standings.

Usually held during pre-season tours, winter breaks, or international club visits, clubfriendlies serve multiple purposes: player fitness, tactical experimentation, integration of new signings, and fan engagement. They can generate revenue through tickets, sponsorship, and broadcasting, and may support charity appeals when designated as benefit matches.

Rules and format of clubfriendlies are more flexible than those of competitive fixtures. Match length is typically 90 minutes, but substitutions and squad rotation are common, and some matches use experimental rules or neutral venues. They may be played behind closed doors or before large crowds.

Across football ecosystems, clubfriendlies are organized by clubs with varying input from leagues or associations, scheduled to fit around official competitions. While they carry limited competitive risk, they influence player availability and team preparation. Their global popularity has grown with club tours and increased media coverage.