Soccer Basics

9 articles on soccer basics.

• Soccer Positions Explained: A Complete Guide for New Players and Parents

  From goalkeeper to striker, every soccer position has a specific job. Here is a plain-English guide to the 11 roles on the field and how to match a player to the right one.

• Who is the Best Soccer Player in the World? (2026 Rankings)

  The debate over the best soccer player in the world never ends. In 2026, a new generation is challenging the old guard. Here are the top contenders and what makes them elite.

• What Does FIFA Stand For?

  FIFA stands for Fédération Internationale de Football Association (in French). Founded in 1904, FIFA is the international governing body of soccer, overseeing the World Cup and the Laws of the Game.

• What is Offsides in Soccer? A Clear Guide

  The offside rule is one of soccer's most misunderstood laws. A player is offside if they are closer to the opponent's goal than both the ball and the second-to-last defender when the ball is played to them.

• Who Invented Soccer? Uncovering the True Origins of Football

  No single person invented soccer. The modern game was codified in England in 1863, but ball-kicking games date back thousands of years across multiple civilizations.

• How Long is a Soccer Field? Dimensions for Every Level of Play

  A professional soccer field is between 100-130 yards (90-120 meters) long and 50-100 yards (45-90 meters) wide. FIFA international match standards narrow this range further.

• How Long is a Soccer Game? A Guide to Official Match Durations

  A standard professional soccer game lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves. But the real answer depends on the level of play, competition rules, and extra time.

• How to Play Soccer: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide

  Soccer is the world's most popular sport, and getting started is easier than you think. This guide covers everything a beginner needs to know—from basic rules to essential skills.

• How Many Players on a Soccer Team?

  A standard soccer team has 11 players on the field, including the goalkeeper. But squad sizes, substitution rules, and small-sided formats vary by age and competition.