Football is one of the most popular sports in the world. Whether you’re watching it on TV or playing it in your backyard, there are a few things you should know about it before you get started.
The objective of the game is to score more points than your opponent does. This is accomplished through a variety of different actions on the field including running, passing, and kicking the ball.
A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the goal line between the two goalposts. A draw is when both teams score the same amount of goals during the allotted time.
Turnovers are when one team loses possession of the ball due to a fumble or an interception by their opponent. These turnovers are usually called by the referees and result in one or more penalties for the offending team.
Penalties are indicated by yellow flags that are thrown onto the field by referees. They’re typically worth between 5-15 yards of field position for the offending team and can stop play.
Incomplete passes (where nobody catches the ball) are also called by the referees and cause the clock to stop. This can be helpful for teams that need to make up lost yards quickly and can pierce the defense.
The modern form of football, or soccer as it is often called, was first developed in Britain during the 19th century. It has since spread to many parts of Europe and across the globe.