Soccer Information Center
History of Soccer
From ancient origins to the modern global phenomenon
Ancient Origins
The earliest forms of soccer can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In China, the game "Cuju" was played as early as 2500 BC, involving kicking a leather ball through a small opening. Similar games existed in Japan (Kemari), Greece (Episkyros), and Rome (Harpastum).
Medieval Football
During the Middle Ages, various forms of football were played across Europe. These games were often violent and chaotic, with entire villages participating. The games had few rules and were sometimes banned by authorities due to their violent nature.
Modern Football Born
The Football Association (FA) was founded in England on October 26, 1863, at the Freemasons' Tavern in London. This marked the birth of modern soccer with standardized rules, including the prohibition of carrying the ball and the establishment of the offside rule.
FIFA Founded
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was established in Paris, France. This international governing body was created to oversee international competitions and standardize the rules of soccer worldwide.
First World Cup
Uruguay hosted and won the inaugural FIFA World Cup. Thirteen teams participated in the tournament, which was won by Uruguay after defeating Argentina 4-2 in the final. This marked the beginning of international soccer competition.
Global Phenomenon
Soccer is now the world's most popular sport, with over 4 billion fans globally. It's played professionally in nearly every country, with major leagues like the English Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, and Serie A attracting millions of viewers worldwide.
Rules of the Game
Understanding the fundamental laws that govern soccer
Team Composition
Each team consists of 11 players on the field, including one goalkeeper. Teams are allowed up to 3 substitutions during regular time, with additional substitutions in extra time. The goalkeeper is the only player allowed to handle the ball within their penalty area.
Match Duration
A standard soccer match lasts 90 minutes, divided into two 45-minute halves with a 15-minute halftime break. The referee may add extra time (injury time) to compensate for stoppages during play. In knockout competitions, extra time and penalty shootouts may be used.
Fouls & Cards
Yellow cards are shown for cautions (unsporting behavior, dissent, persistent infringement). Red cards result in immediate dismissal for serious fouls, violent conduct, or receiving two yellow cards. Free kicks or penalties are awarded based on the severity and location of fouls.
Offside Rule
A player is in an offside position if they are nearer to the opponent's goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent when the ball is played to them. Being in an offside position is not an offense, but becoming actively involved in play from that position is.
Handball
Players cannot intentionally touch the ball with their hands or arms, except for the goalkeeper within their penalty area. Accidental handball that leads to a goal or goal-scoring opportunity may result in the goal being disallowed. The interpretation of handball has evolved to be more strict in recent years.
Scoring
A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided no infringement of the rules has occurred. Each goal counts as one point, and the team with the most goals at the end of the match wins.
Field Details
Understanding the soccer field layout and dimensions
Field Specifications
Key Field Markings
- Center Line: Divides the field into two equal halves and is used for kickoffs
- Center Circle: 9.15m radius from the center spot, opponents must stay outside during kickoff
- Penalty Area: Area where goalkeepers can handle the ball and where fouls result in penalty kicks
- Goal Area: Smaller area within penalty area where goal kicks are taken
- Corner Arcs: 1m radius arcs at each corner for corner kicks
- Penalty Spot: 11m from the goal line where penalty kicks are taken
- Penalty Arc: Semi-circle outside penalty area, players must stay behind during penalties
- Touch Lines: Long boundaries of the field (sidelines)
- Goal Lines: Short boundaries where goals are scored
Tricks & Tactics
Advanced techniques and strategic approaches to improve your game
Essential Skills
Dribbling
Control the ball while running, using both feet and different parts of the foot to maintain possession and evade defenders.
Key Techniques:
- Keep the ball close to your feet
- Use both feet equally
- Change direction quickly
- Use body feints to deceive opponents
Passing
Accurate passing is crucial for team play. Master short passes, long passes, through balls, and crosses.
Key Techniques:
- Look before passing
- Use the inside of your foot for accuracy
- Pass to space, not just to feet
- Weight your passes appropriately
Shooting
Develop power and accuracy in your shots. Practice different shooting techniques for various situations.
Key Techniques:
- Keep your head down when striking
- Follow through with your kicking foot
- Place your non-kicking foot beside the ball
- Use different parts of your foot for different shots
Vision & Awareness
Develop awareness of your surroundings and anticipate where the ball and players will be.
Key Techniques:
- Scan the field regularly
- Anticipate movement patterns
- Think one step ahead
- Communicate with teammates
Formations & Tactics
Advantages:
- Solid defensive structure
- Good width in attack
- Easy to understand and implement
- Balanced midfield presence
Disadvantages:
- Can be predictable
- Limited attacking options
- Midfield can be overrun
Advantages:
- Strong attacking presence
- High pressing capability
- Flexible midfield options
- Good for possession play
Disadvantages:
- Can leave defense exposed
- Requires high fitness levels
- Midfield can be outnumbered
Advantages:
- Midfield dominance
- Wing-back flexibility
- Strong counter-attack potential
- Good for pressing
Disadvantages:
- Defensive vulnerability
- Requires specific player types
- Can be exposed on wings
Advanced Techniques
Step Over
A dribbling move where you fake going one direction by stepping over the ball, then go the opposite way.
Cruyff Turn
Named after Johan Cruyff, this move involves faking a pass or shot, then dragging the ball behind your standing leg.
Elastico
A complex move where you use the outside of your foot to push the ball one way, then quickly use the inside to go the opposite direction.
Rainbow Flick
An advanced skill where you flick the ball over your head and the defender's head using your heel.
Ready to Apply These Skills?
Now that you understand the fundamentals, explore our matches, players, and statistics to see these techniques in action