Soccer, is a team sport where two teams of 11 players use their feet to move a ball around a rectangular field and score goals. It is the world's most popular sport, with an estimated 250 million players in over 200 countries. 

Here are some facts about football:

History

The game's origins can be traced back to ancient China, but the modern version began in medieval England. The Football Association codified the rules of the game in 1863. 

Ball

The ball used in football is typically brown and oval-shaped, but the shape varies depending on the type of football. The first balls were made of inflated pig bladders, but modern balls are made of rubber or plastic bladders and covered in plastic. 

Gameplay

A football match is usually played in two 45-minute halves, with a 15-minute break at half-time. The winning team is the one that scores the most goals. If the score is tied at the end of the match, it's a draw. 

Equipment

Players wear protective gear, including shin pads and the correct boots. 

Officials

Each game has a referee and two assistants. The referee is responsible for making sure the game is played fairly, and can rule on penalties and issue yellow and red cards. 

Olympic history

Football has been played in the Olympics since 1900, with the exception of 1932. Women's football was introduced in 1996.