Football - History, Rules, & Players

Association football, more commonly known as simply football or soccer, is a team sport played between two teams of 11 players.

With an estimated 250 million players active in over 200 countries, it is considered the world's most popular sport.

Traditionally, the game has been played over two 45 minute halves, for a total match time of 90 minutes.

Internationally, association football is globally governed by FIFA.

First played:  Mid-19th century  In England

Team members:  11 per side  (including goalkeeper)

Main Event:  FIFA World Cup