Soccer

Soccer, also known as football in many parts of the world, is a team sport played between two teams of eleven players each. It is played on a rectangular field, known as a pitch, with a goal at each end. The objective of the game is to score goals by getting the ball into the opposing team’s goal, using any part of the body except the hands and arms, which are only permitted for the goalkeeper within their penalty area. Matches are typically played in two halves of 45 minutes each, with a half-time break. 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 known for its global popularity, extensive following, and significant cultural impact, making it one of the most played and watched sports worldwide. Major international competitions include the FIFA World Cup and continental tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship.