invalbeurten

Invalbeurten is a Dutch term used to describe the moment a player who is not on the field enters a match to replace a player who is leaving the field. The plural invalbeurten refers to multiple such events within a single game. The term is most commonly heard in football (soccer) but is also used in other team sports such as field hockey and basketball.

Procedure and rules: A substitute is selected from the bench and, with the match official’s approval, takes the place of a player who is leaving the field. The entering player usually cannot participate until the outgoing player has left the field. Substitutions count toward a competition-specific limit, though rules vary by sport and competition. Some leagues or tournaments allow additional substitutions in extra time or under certain conditions. Teams employ invalbeurten for tactical reasons, such as changing formation or restoring fitness, or to replace an injured player.

History and regulation: The practice of substitutions developed in the early 20th century and has evolved significantly since then. Modern competitions typically prescribe a set number of substitutions per match, though the exact limits and conditions differ by sport and governing body (for example, FIFA, UEFA, and national leagues).

Etymology: The word is Dutch, combining in- (in) and beurt (turn or opportunity), so invalbeurt roughly translates as an entry turn for a substitute.