Soccer is one of the most popular sports globally, with a huge following represented by billions of fans.
It turns out that playing soccer is almost as popular as watching soccer. According to FIFA, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, there are more than 240 million players worldwide. The United States is one of the top soccer-playing countries, with nearly 18 million players.
This exciting sport caters to all age groups. Interested in knowing more about the game? This article is the perfect beginner’s guide to soccer. It includes the basic rules of soccer and information on the players and their equipment!
The Objective
Before explaining how to play soccer, it’s important to outline its purpose. To win a soccer game, one team has to score more points than the opposing team. Teams win points for scoring goals.
Goals are stationed at either end of the field and on a “goal line.” The goal frame consists of two goalposts and a crossbar. Connected to each framA ball after being kicked into the goal.
It is connected to each frame. The ball must be kicked past the goal line and into the goal frame for a goal to count.
On the Field
A standard soccer game lasts 90 minutes. These 90 minutes are split into two 45-minute sessions, with a 15-minute break for half-time. Youth and high school teams may play for shorter periods.
Time may be added to a game to compensate for time lost due to substitutions, injuries, or fouls.
If the scores are even at the end of 90 minutes, teams will play five-minute overtime. If the score is still tied after two overtime sessions, both teams will take penalty kicks.
Each team can have 11 players on the field, one of which is the goalie.
One of the well-known soccer rules is that no player can use their hands. This doesn’t apply to the goalie, whose job is to keep the opposing team from scoring. The rest of the team plays either defensive or offensive positions.
Defensive players protect the goalie and prevent the other team from scoring, while offensive players try to score.
Each soccer game also has a referee. Referees ensure that teams play fairly and abide by the rules of soccer.
Equipment
Every soccer player wears a uniform consisting of a jersey and shorts. They also wear shin guards to protect themselves from injury. The most important thing for every player is firm-ground (grass) soccer cleats.
Cleats give players extra traction and stability.
Goalies may have extra equipment, such as special gloves, that help them catch the ball.
Other Basic Rules of Soccer
Every game starts with a coin toss between the team captains. The coin toss winner gets to decide which goal their team will defend.
When a ball goes out of bounds, the team that didn’t touch it last gets to throw in.
Lastly, teams may receive fouls for game misconduct. This includes handling the ball, kicking, tripping, or tackling an opponent, dangerous play, unsportsmanlike conduct, or disregarding the game’s rules. The referee monitors these.
The Goal Line
Hopefully, after reading this article, you will better understand soccer. Whether you’re a player or a fan, this sport provides a thrilling experience for every participant.
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