The present article reviews the energy needs of the soccer player and the potential contribution of carbohydrate to meeting these needs. During a typical match, high-level players cover ∼ 10 km by a combination of sprinting, jogging, and walking. High intensity activity occupies 8–12% of playing time. The distance that is covered provides a minimum estimate of energy needs (3–4 MJ/game), since the energy cost of play is increased relative to the treadmill by such factors as rough ground and frequent stops and starts. The average heart rate implies usage of ∼ 75% of maximal oxygen intake, or 6–7 MJ/game, but this value is commonly biased upwards by the excitement of competition and thermal effects. Direct measurements of oxygen consumption support a value midway between these estimates (5 MJ/game). The main immediate source of energy for sprints and decelerations is local phosphagen, but resynthesis is heavily dependent upon carbohydrate metabolism, both anaerobic and aerobic. During a match, there is a 50% depletion of carbohydrate reserves in the leg muscles, sometimes with a substantial fall of blood glucose. As in some other team sports, maintenance of high quality performance depends on success in conserving carbohydrate. Nutritional implications are that pregame carbohydrate reserves be built up by a high carbohydrate diet, and dilute sugar solutions be provided at halftime (without raising osmolality to a level where fluid intake is impaired).