Soccer, a globally beloved sport, is simple at its core yet rich in strategy and excitement. This guide is crafted for parents and newcomers, offering a straightforward overview of soccer’s basic rules. From understanding fouls and offsides to getting to grips with game procedures like penalties and free kicks, we’ll equip you with the essential knowledge to enjoy and participate in the world of soccer.
1. Fouls
Fouls in soccer are actions that are against the rules, usually involving unfair play or dangerous behavior. Examples include slide tackling, tripping, pushing, or handling the ball with hands (except for the goalkeeper in their penalty area). Fouls can lead to free kicks or penalty kicks for the opposing team and may result in yellow or red cards for the player committing the foul.
2. Offsides
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. It’s not an offense in itself to be offside; a player is only penalized for being offside if, at the moment the ball touches or is played by a teammate, they are involved in active play.
3. Throw-Ins
A throw-in is awarded when the entire ball crosses the touchline, either on the ground or in the air. The opposing team of the player who last touched the ball is granted the throw-in. To execute a throw-in, the player must use both hands, deliver the ball from behind and over the head, and keep both feet on the ground.
4. Number of Players
A standard soccer game consists of two teams, each with 11 players, one of whom is the goalkeeper. In official matches, the number can never exceed 11 players, but in informal games, the number can be adjusted as agreed upon.
5. Out of Bounds
The ball is out of bounds when it completely crosses the goal line or touchline, either on the ground or in the air. This results in a goal kick, corner kick, or throw-in, depending on who touched the ball last and where it went out.
6. Penalties
A penalty kick is awarded when a player commits a direct free-kick offense inside their penalty area. The kick is taken from the penalty spot, with only the goalkeeper defending the attempt.
7. Free Kick
Free kicks are awarded after certain fouls are committed. They are either direct (from which a goal can be scored directly against the opposing side) or indirect (where the ball must touch another player before a goal can be scored). The opposing team must be at least 9.15 meters (10 yards) away from the ball until it is in play.
8. Card System
The card system is used to discipline players for misconduct or fouls. A yellow card warns a player for serious offenses, while a red card expels them from the game. A player receiving two yellow cards in a match automatically receives a red card.
9. Substitutions
Teams can substitute players during the game. The number of substitutions permitted varies by competition. The player being substituted must leave the field before the substitute can enter. All substitutions are subject to the referee’s approval.
10. Game Length
A standard adult soccer game length is typically 90 minutes long, split into two 45-minute halves. Between these halves, players and coaches take a 15-minute half-time break to regroup and strategize. Additionally, to compensate for any delays during play, such as injuries or substitutions, stoppage time is added at the end of each half, ensuring all lost playing time is accounted for.
11. VAR (Video Assistant Referee)
VAR is a technology used to assist referees in making decisions. It can be used in four types of incidents: goals, penalty decisions, direct red card incidents, and mistaken identity in awarding a card. VAR reviews are initiated by the referee or following a team’s appeal in certain situations.
With the basics of soccer now in your toolkit, you’re ready to dive into the game with confidence. This knowledge will not only enhance your viewing experience but also support your engagement with the sport, whether playing, watching, or discussing it with others. Embrace the fun and camaraderie of soccer and enjoy the journey into this dynamic and beloved sport.
