So you’re new to soccer? That’s no surprise – you’re American. But with the 2014 FIFA World Cup upon us, it’s time for a basic “football” primer. Here’s what you need to know about the laws of the game.
Soccer, more commonly known as football, is the most popular sport in the world. From prep schools to parking lots, economic and social barriers dissolve and people from all walks unite around a common ball.
This sport contains some of the world’s most famous athletes, and has rivalries tracing back hundreds of years.
Here are some terminologies to familiarize yourself with:
- “Club” means team
- Uniforms are “kits”
- The field is a “pitch”
There are 17 “laws,” or rules. The game lasts for 90 minutes, with just one break at half time.
The game is played with 11 players on each side, making a 4-4-2 formation, consisting of four defenders near the goalkeeper, four midfielders who both attack and defend, and two forwards. The forwards are the players most expected to score goals.
Goals don’t occur often, so it’s not like basketball where points are scored every minute. That’s why fans go crazy when a goal is made, making the anticipation worth it.
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