Football

Football, also known as soccer in some countries, 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 using any part of the body except the hands and arms—goalkeepers are the exception, as they can use their hands within the penalty area. Matches are typically played on a rectangular field, known as a pitch, which is often grass or artificial turf.

The game is governed by a standard set of rules known as the Laws of the Game, maintained by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). Football is played at both amateur and professional levels around the world, featuring many international tournaments, most notably the FIFA World Cup.

The sport is characterized by its emphasis on teamwork, strategy, and skill, making it one of the most popular and widely-followed sports globally. Football clubs and national teams engage in various competitions, contributing to a rich culture of fandom and rivalry. The sport has a significant cultural impact, fostering community, national pride, and global connections.