What Is Soccer And Why Is One Of The Most Popular Sport On Earth

Soccer is also known as football. It is a game played by two teams of eleven players who kick a ball and try to score goals. The measurement of a football field is: Length 100 yds. to 130 yds; Breadth 50 yds. to 56 yds; Goal width 8 yds; Bar 8 ft. from ground; area 6 yds. From each goal post; Ball 27 inches in circumference; Duration of the game is 90 minutes maximum. Features Soccer or football is a team sport, and is the most popular sport worldwide. The players keep maneuvering the ball and ultimately aim for a short at goal. The goalkeeper tries hard to stop the ball from crossing the goal line. Except for the goalkeeper the other players are not supposed to use their hands to propel the ball, others have to position the ball by using their feet, torso or head. The team that scores the maximum number of goals is declared the winner. In case the match is a tie, it is either declared as draw or is given extra time or penalty shootout Equipments The simplicity of the game, uncomplicated rule and the requirement of a sole device –a ball make it a widespread sport. All the players have to follow a certain dress-code, which includes, shirts, shorts, socks, shoes and shin guards. Wearing jewelry, watches and things that can harm other players or themselves is prohibited. The goalkeeper has to wear clothes that will distinguish him from the rest of the team members. A maximum of three players can substitute during international and domestic matches. The match is authorized by a referee on the field, and his decision is considered final. History of soccer Soccer originated in 206 BC when the Han dynasty ruled over China. A game known as Tsu Chu similar to soccer was played on the occasion of the emperor’s birthday. During the 11th century young boys in England played a game with an inflated bladder of the cow. This game often ended in violent clashes between the two teams as a result was ultimately banned. Football resurfaced in 1623 in England and by 1820 some schools began promoting football on the grounds that it built in health and strength. On similar lines of soccer, but with different variation rugby, baseball, basketball emerged.