Whether we’re watching a crowded stadium in Brazil, a muddy street game in Africa, or a quiet school field in Europe, soccer seems to follow us wherever we go.

But how did this simple game become the most loved sport in the world? Let’s take a deeper look at the amazing journey of soccer—how it began, how it spread, and why it brings us together like no other game.

From Ancient China to the Global Stage

Believe it or not, soccer’s roots go all the way back to ancient China. Over 2,000 years ago, during the Warring States period, people played a game called Cuju , which involved kicking a leather ball through a small goal. It was not just for fun—it also served as a form of physical training for fighters.

Fast forward to 2004, the international soccer organization FIFA officially recognized Cuju as the earliest form of soccer. That means the first kicks of the game started right here in Asia—long before it reached England.

England's Big Move: Creating Modern Soccer

Although Cuju was the beginning, modern soccer was shaped in 19th-century England. Back then, different schools had their own rules. Some allowed carrying the ball; others didn’t. This confusion led to the creation of The Football Association (FA) in 1863, which set the official rules—no hands, round ball, 11 players, and two goals.

From that moment, soccer started to spread across the world, especially to Europe, Africa, South America, and eventually, every corner of the globe.

How Do We Play Soccer Today?

The basic idea is simple: kick the ball into the opponent’s goal. A team has 11 players, including one goalkeeper. The goalkeeper can use their hands, but everyone else has to use their feet, head, or body—just not their hands.

A standard game lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45-minute halves. If the score is tied, there might be extra time (30 more minutes) or even a penalty shootout, depending on the type of match. Most league games can end in a draw, but knockout matches must have a winner.

Soccer Is for Everyone, Everywhere

What makes soccer so special is how easy it is to play. We don’t need expensive gear or a fancy field. Just a ball and some space will do. That’s why people from all walks of life, all over the world, love playing it.

Kids play barefoot on dusty roads. Adults gather in parks after work. Friends create small tournaments in backyards. No matter where we are, soccer finds a way to bring us together.

The World Comes Together Through Soccer

Soccer has the power to unite. Every four years, we watch the FIFA World Cup, where teams from every continent compete for glory. For many of us, these moments create memories we never forget—cheering with neighbors, crying over missed goals, and celebrating amazing wins.

The game also appears in the Olympic Games, and both men’s and women’s soccer have grown massively in popularity. It’s not just a sport—it’s a shared global tradition.

Why We Love Soccer So Much

Maybe it’s the excitement of the game. Maybe it’s how a single goal can change everything. Or maybe it’s because anyone can play, no matter who we are. Soccer teaches us teamwork, focus, and resilience. And for many, it brings pure joy.

It's not just about competition. It’s about friendship, stories, and moments. That’s why even when we lose, we still come back and play again.

Let’s Keep Playing, Lykkers!

Lykkers, the beauty of soccer lies in how easily it becomes a part of our lives. A simple kick, a friendly match, or cheering for a local team—it all brings joy and connection. Every time we step onto a field or even just watch a game, we become part of something bigger.

Let’s keep the ball rolling, make new memories, and enjoy the game that brings people together across the world.

Are you ready to step into the game and feel the magic of soccer?