Football – The Most Popular Sport in the World

Association football, also called simply football, is a competitive team game played by a spherical object containing two forwards, two defenders and three goalkeepers in an oval field with the goal post at the centre. It is played by about 250 million players worldwide in more than 200 nations and dependencies, which make it the most popular sport in the world. The popularity of football has led to the formation of innumerable teams, each with their own dedicated fan following.

The game of football is divided into two divisions, namely the amateur league and the professional league. The matches of the amateur league are played among teams belonging to different countries, while those of the professional league are played between teams belonging to the same country but with different leagues. The international soccer tournaments are also played between international sides, which is the most prestigious and lucrative championship in football. International footballers earn millions of dollars every year, but the competition in the league is tough, since the best players are rarely chosen. To increase the number of football fans, several matches are held regularly, which can attract a large audience.

Despite being one of the most popular sports in the world today, football is considered as a low-level sport in the eyes of many. Many people fail to realize that football is a high intensity contact sport that requires strength, endurance, agility, kicking skill and strategy to win the game. The sport of football requires a lot of endurance and physical fitness, since the ball has to travel a long way and there is constant contact. Although football is a very tough and aggressive sport, many people have become hooked on the beautiful game, especially during the World Cup tournaments when countries from all over the world come together to play the sport for fame and glory.