Soccer

Soccer, known as football in most countries outside of North America, is a team sport played between two teams of eleven players each. The objective of the game is to score goals by getting a spherical ball into the opposing team’s net, which is guarded by a goalkeeper. The game typically lasts 90 minutes, divided into two halves, with additional time added for stoppages. Players primarily use their feet to control and advance the ball, although they can use their heads and torsos; only goalkeepers are allowed to use their hands, and only within their designated penalty area.

Soccer is governed by a set of rules called the Laws of the Game, established by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). The sport is widely regarded as the most popular and played sport globally, with millions of fans and players across all age groups and backgrounds. Major competitions include domestic leagues, international club tournaments, and the FIFA World Cup, which showcases national teams from around the world. Soccer emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and skill, making it a dynamic and engaging sport for both players and spectators.