Football is a team sport played primarily with a spherical ball between two teams of eleven players each. It is widely known as soccer in some countries, particularly the United States and Canada. The objective of the game is to score by getting the ball into the opposing team’s goal. Players predominantly use their feet to control, pass, and shoot the ball, although goalkeepers can use their hands within specific areas of the field.
Football is governed internationally by FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association), which organizes major tournaments, the most notable being the FIFA World Cup. The sport has a rich history and is considered one of the most popular sports worldwide, with millions of players and fans across various countries. Leagues, clubs, and national teams compete at local, national, and international levels.
The game’s rules, known as the Laws of the Game, cover aspects like field dimensions, ball characteristics, player conduct, and match regulations, ensuring fairness and consistency in play. Football promotes teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness, making it a significant part of many cultures and social structures globally.