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Football Guide

Discover the world of football, the most popular sport in the world. This guide provides all the essential information to understand and enjoy this exciting sport.

Rules of the Game

Football is played between two teams of 11 players each, with a ball, on a rectangular field. The objective is to score more goals than the opponent by getting the ball into the opposing goal.

RuleDescription
Match Duration90 minutes (two halves of 45 minutes)
OffsideA player is in an offside position if they are closer to the opponent's goal line than the ball and the second-to-last opponent
FoulsPunished by direct, indirect free kicks, or penalties
CardsYellow (warning), Red (exclusion)

History

Modern football has its origins in England in the 19th century, although similar games have been played in various cultures for centuries.

  • 1863 - Formation of the Football Association in England
  • 1904 - Foundation of FIFA
  • 1930 - First World Championship (Uruguay)
  • 1992 - Creation of the Champions League (formerly European Cup of Champions)

Major Competitions

Football includes many prestigious competitions at the national and international levels.

  • FIFA World Cup (every 4 years)
  • UEFA Champions League (annual)
  • Euros (every 4 years)
  • Copa América (every 4 years)
  • National Championships (Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, Ligue 1)

Legendary Players

Football has seen the birth of many legendary players who have marked the history of the sport.

Pelé

Nationality
Brazil
Active Period
1956-1977
World Cups
3 titles

Diego Maradona

Nationality
Argentina
Active Period
1976-1997
World Cup
1 title (1986)

Statistics and Tactics

Modern football increasingly integrates sophisticated statistical and tactical analyses.

Popular Formations

  • 4-3-3 : Offensive formation with three forwards
  • 4-4-2 : Classic balanced formation
  • 3-5-2 : Formation with three defenders and using wingers
  • 4-2-3-1 : Modern formation with a lone striker

Key Statistics

  • Expected Goals (xG): Likelihood of a shot becoming a goal
  • Pass Completion Rate: Percentage of passes reaching a teammate
  • PPDA: Passes Allowed Per Defensive Action (pressing measure)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a football match?

A standard football match lasts 90 minutes, divided into two halves of 45 minutes each, with a 15-minute break in between. Extra time may be added to compensate for stoppages in play.

What is the offside rule?

A player is in an offside position if they are closer to the opponent's goal line than the ball and the second-to-last opponent at the moment the ball is played to them. This rule does not apply if the player is in their own half of the field.

How many substitutions are allowed in a match?

Traditionally, 3 substitutions were allowed per team. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many competitions now allow 5 substitutions, spread over 3 stoppages in play.

What is the difference between the Champions League and the World Cup?

The Champions League is an annual competition between the top European clubs. The World Cup takes place every 4 years and features national teams from around the world.

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