Football is a team sport that involves two teams, typically consisting of eleven players each, competing to score goals by advancing a spherical ball into the opposing team’s net. The game is played on a rectangular field, commonly known as a pitch, with goalposts at either end. Depending on the region, “football” can refer to different codes of the sport, but the most widely recognized version globally is association football, known in the United States and Canada as soccer.
The game is governed by a set of rules known as the Laws of the Game, which outline how the game is played, including the playing time, methods for scoring, fouls, and other regulations. Football emphasizes teamwork, strategy, and physical skill, involving techniques such as dribbling, passing, and shooting.
Football is known for its global appeal, with a significant following of fans and professional leagues in many countries. Major international tournaments, such as the FIFA World Cup, showcase the sport on a global stage, highlighting its cultural and social significance. Football not only serves as an athletic competition but also as a means of community engagement and national pride.