Football

Football, often referred to as soccer in some countries, is a team sport played between two teams of eleven players each. It is played on a rectangular field with a goal at each end. The objective of the game is to score by getting the ball into the opposing team’s goal. Players typically use their feet to control and pass the ball, although they can use any part of their body except their arms and hands—in the case of outfield players. The only player allowed to handle the ball within the confines of regular play is the goalkeeper, who protects the goal.

Football is governed by a set of rules known as the Laws of the Game, which are maintained by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). The sport is widely recognized and played globally, making it one of the most popular sports in the world. Major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and continental championships attract millions of viewers and participants, showcasing the sport’s cultural significance. Football promotes physical fitness, teamwork, and strategic thinking among players and is celebrated for its ability to bring people together across diverse backgrounds.