Football

Football refers to a team sport played between two teams, typically consisting of eleven players each, on a rectangular field with goalposts at either end. The objective is to score goals by getting a spherical ball into the opposing team’s goal. The game is governed by a specific set of rules known as the Laws of the Game, which dictate how the game is played, including aspects like fouls, offside positions, and the duration of the match.

Football is often distinguished from other sports by its primary method of ball movement. In most forms of football, notably association football (often called soccer), players primarily use their feet to control and kick the ball, while goalkeepers are allowed to use their hands within a designated area. The sport is widely popular around the world, with professional leagues, international competitions, and a global following. Variants of football include American football, rugby football, and Australian rules football, each with different rules, scoring methods, and forms of play. Football is often credited with fostering teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness among its participants.