Introduction to Soccer
Soccer is known as football in almost all parts of the world. It is a team sport between two teams in which each team has 11 players.
Both teams have to score goals against each other. And the one who scores more goals wins. It is the most popular sport in the whole world. Which has a rich history.
History of Soccer
Football is a very old game. It was started in England in the 19th century where its rules were established.
To manage these rules, IFAB i.e. International Football Association Board was established.
After which Federation International de Football Association i.e. FIFA was formed in 1904.
Basic Rules and Gameplay
This game is played on a 110–120 yards long field whose width is 70–80 yards. There are goals on both sides of the field.
The match has two halves of 45 minutes each with a 15-minute break in between.
The first rule of the game is that the player should not hit the ball himself, otherwise he can play with his body.
The goalkeeper has his penalty area. If the team which scores more goals than the other team ends up equal then the match goes into extra time or penalty shoot-out depending on the match.
Positions and Roles
Goalkeeper:- The goalkeeper is the one who stands at the goal post and stops the goals scored by the players of the other team.
During the entire match, he is the only player who can pick up the ball in his hands but that too only inside the penalty area.
Defenders:- These are the players who stop the enemy team from reaching the goal post. They include center back, full back, and wing back.
Midfielders:- These are the players who defend their team and also deliver the ball to the opposing team’s goal. These include center midfielder, attacking midfielder, and defensive midfielder.
Forwards:- These are the players whose first aim is to score goals and they go near the goalpost of the other team and try their best to score goals. These include strikers and wingers.
Popular Competitions
FIFA World Cup:- This tournament is organized every 4 years in which teams from different countries of the world come and fight for this title.
UEFA Champions League:- It is Europe’s biggest club competition, with the best teams from across the continent participating.
English Premier League:- This is the most popular domestic competition in the world.
Overview of Soccer in 2024
Soccer has become a very big sport on the international stage by 2024. Many events and competitions have started taking place in this game, which has increased the popularity of this game even more.
This year, many of its tournaments, changes and emerging talents have made a lot of headlines.
Major Tournaments and Events
FIFA World Cup 2026 Preparations
The last FIFA World Cup in 2022 ended with Argentina’s victory and since then preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have begun in full swing.
Which is being done jointly by America, Canada and Mexico. A total of 48 teams from different countries will participate in this tournament,
due to which it has become the biggest event till date because never before have so many teams participated in this tournament. It will be a thrilling event for the whole world.
UEFA Champions League
UEFA Champions League is the biggest league played in Europe which is the center point of Europe.
This season, many exciting matches have been seen in it. Fans are eagerly waiting for the final of this season which is going to be held in Istanbul’s Ataturk Olympic Stadium.
Copa Libertadores
The Copa Libertadores is one of the most popular competitions of soccer in South America.
It features the best teams from across the continent, with teams like River Plate and Flamengo set to compete again in 2024
Fan Engagement and Digital Media
Growing Digital Presence
Fans are increasingly connecting with football clubs and organisations through digital platforms.
Social media and streaming services and a number of dedicated apps are attracting fans to teams and players, allowing fans to connect more with their favourite players.
These digital platforms are playing a vital role in popularising the sport.
Global Fan Base
International fans are liking football more and more and their fans are also increasing, teams from different places come to watch matches and support their team.
3 Billion people are connected to soccer and this count is still increasing.
Famous Players of Football
Pelé
He is a very famous Brazilian player and he used to play in the forward position. He was also a 3-time World Cup winner and was known for his excellent goal scoring ability and skills.
Diego Maradona
He played midfielder position for Argentina. He was famous for his goals in 1986 World Cup, Hand of God, and Goal of the Century.
Lionel Messi
He plays in the forward position for the Argentina team. He is a multiple time Ballon d’Or winner and is known for his dribbling, vision and playmaking skills.
Cristiano Ronaldo
He plays in the forward position for the Portugal team. He is a multiple Ballon d’Or winner and is known for his athleticism, goal-scoring prowess and wide range of talents.
Johan Cruyff
He plays in the forward position for the Dutch team and is known for his modern football tactics and impressive play.
