What Is the Difference Between Soccer and Football?
.jpeg "What Is the Difference Between Soccer and Football?")
Football? American football? Soccer? These sports may share a name, but they are quite different. In most countries, the sport is called "football". But in the United States and Ireland, it's known as "soccer". The US also has its own version, "American football". This guide will show you the main differences between soccer and American football. We'll look at rules, terminology, origins, and popularity to see what makes each sport unique.
Key Takeaways
- Soccer and American football are two distinct sports with different rules, fields, and objectives.
- The term "football" refers to Association Football, or soccer, in most parts of the world, while in the US it is associated with American football.
- Soccer fields are larger and feature a round ball, while American football fields are smaller and use an oval-shaped ball.
- Soccer matches can end in draws, while American football games rarely do.
- Soccer has a global following, while American football is predominantly popular in the United States.
Understanding the Terminology
In the late 19th century, British students loved to shorten names and words. They worked on Association football. It was first called "socca" in 1889, then "socker," before becoming soccer in 1895.
American football was already big in North America and was also called football. So, Association football needed a new name in the United States. That's when it became "soccer". While "soccer" is common in the US, it's rare in the UK. There, it's often called the "Beautiful Game," thanks to Pele.
The Origins of "Soccer" and "Football"
The word "soccer" started in the US in the late 19th century. It was a way to tell Association football apart from American football. Today, over 90% of people around the world call the sport with a round ball football.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB) makes sure the rules for soccer and football are the same everywhere. They work with FIFA and the UK's football associations.
Football-type games have been around for a long time. The modern game started in 1863. Rugby football let players carry and run with the ball, making it known as rugby by the 20th century. In the UK, association football was just called football.
In the US, gridiron football became popular in the late 19th century. American players started using soccer for their sport. This led to the US Football Association changing its name officially.
The Balls
When it comes to the game balls, there are distinct differences between soccer ball and football ball designs. The American football is more of an egg-shaped "prolate spheroid," with prominent stitches along one side to provide a stronger grip for throwing. These footballs are sometimes referred to as "pigskins," a nod to their original leather construction.
In contrast, the soccer ball is a simple, round design that is ideal for kicking. Soccer balls have a circumference ranging from 68 to 70 cm, a pressure between 8.5 to 15.6 pounds per square inch, and a weight of 410 to 450 grams.
The construction and materials of soccer and football balls also differ significantly. Soccer match balls are often hand-stitched and feature a thicker layer of foam under the PU (polyurethane) cover, providing a softer, more responsive touch. Soccer training balls, on the other hand, tend to have a thinner foam layer, resulting in a harder feel but greater durability for heavy use.
| Ball Type | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer Training Balls | $20 - $80 | - Medium to high quality construction - Thinner foam layer (under 2.0 mm) - Designed for heavy use and long-term wear |
| Soccer Match Balls | $60 - $120 | - Hand-stitched - Thicker foam layer (3.0 mm and up) - Softer touch for improved play |
| Futsal Balls | $40 - $60 | - Smaller circumference (62-64 cm) - Slightly heavier (400-440 grams) - Reduced bounce for indoor play |
| Football Balls | $40 - $85 | - Egg-shaped "prolate spheroid" design - Prominent stitches for better grip - Also known as "pigskins" |
| Rugby Balls | $60 - $270 | - Larger size than football (size 5) - Softer, more durable construction - Designed for 15-player teams |
Regardless of the sport, the game balls are a crucial part of the equipment, each designed to meet the unique demands of their respective games. Understanding the differences between soccer ball and football ball construction and specifications can help players and fans alike appreciate the nuances of these iconic sports.
What Is the Difference Between Soccer and Football?
Soccer and American football may share a name, but they are very different sports. Knowing the main differences helps us understand what makes each game special.
Soccer is mostly played with the feet. Players can only use their hands for throw-ins or in their own penalty area. American football, on the other hand, focuses on the hands. Players pass, carry, and catch the ball throughout the game.
The shape of the ball also tells them apart. Soccer uses a round ball, while American football has a pointed shape. This affects how players control, pass, and kick the ball.
| Characteristic | Soccer | American Football |
|---|---|---|
| Ball Shape | Round | Pointed "Prolate Spheroid" |
| Primary Body Part Used | Feet | Hands |
| Number of Players | 11 per team | 11 per team |
| Game Duration | Two 45-minute halves | Four 15-minute quarters |
| Popular Regions | Globally popular | Primarily popular in the United States |
The goals, scoring, and gameplay of soccer and American football are quite different. In soccer, teams kick the ball into the other team's net to score. American football teams aim to move the ball down the field for touchdowns, field goals, or safeties.
These key differences show why each sport has its own unique charm. They attract different fans worldwide.
The Playing Fields
Dimensions and Markings
Soccer and American football have different playing fields. A soccer field is at least 100 yards long and no more than 130 yards. An American football field is up to 100 yards between goal lines but must be 120 yards between end zones. Soccer fields are wider, stretching from 50 to 100 yards, unlike the 53⅓ yards of an American football field.
The soccer field has a simple design with two center semicircles and an 18-yard "box" in front of the goal. This area is where the goalkeeper can handle the ball. On the other hand, the American football field is divided into 10-yard sections. It also has an "end zone" line and two upright posts at each end.
| Dimension | Soccer Field | American Football Field |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 100-130 yards | 100 yards (between goal lines), 120 yards (between end zones) |
| Width | 50-100 yards | 53⅓ yards |
| Crossbar Height | 8 feet (2.44 meters) | 10 feet (3 meters) |
| Surface | Natural grass, artificial turf, or hybrid | Natural grass or artificial turf |
Both sports have their own unique playing fields. The main differences are in the dimensions, markings, and layout. These reflect the special nature of each game.
Scoring and Objectives
In soccer, the main goal is to kick the ball into the opponent's net. This is how you score a goal. The team with the most goals wins the game. Often, soccer games end in draws, with no clear winner.
American football has a different scoring system. The main goal is to carry the ball across the opponent's goal line for a "touchdown." This is worth 6 points. After a touchdown, teams can try an extra point by kicking the ball through the goal posts for another point.
This makes football games often have over 20 points by the end.
| Soccer Scoring | American Football Scoring |
|---|---|
|
|
The scoring and objectives of soccer and American football make each sport unique. They also lead to different strategies in each game.
Team Composition and Substitutions
Both soccer and football teams have 11 players on the field at a time. But, how they change players is quite different.
In soccer, the same 11 players usually play the whole game. They can make up to 3 substitutions. This rule helps manage player fatigue and injuries while keeping the team's structure steady.
Player Roles and Substitution Rules
On the other hand, American football teams change players often, with no limit on substitutions. They use different players for offense, defense, and special teams. This lets coaches change their team to fit the game's needs.
- In soccer, players keep their positions and roles all game, with a few allowed substitutions.
- In American football, teams can swap players freely, making it easier to adjust their strategy.
The way teams change players shows how these sports are different at their core.
The Leagues and Governing Bodies
Soccer and American football have their own leagues and governing bodies. These shape the sports we love.
The top soccer leagues are the UEFA Champions League, English Premier League, Spanish La Liga, German Bundesliga, and Italian Serie A. These leagues bring together the best teams and players, thrilling millions of fans worldwide.
The American football scene is led by the National Football League (NFL). It's one of the top sports leagues in the U.S. and the most profitable globally, with a huge fan base.
For these sports, the governing bodies are quite different. FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) oversees soccer, organizing the FIFA World Cup and promoting the sport globally. International Federation of American Football (IFAF) is the global body for American football, mainly focusing on North America.
Leagues and governing bodies are key in setting rules and guiding their sports. They cater to the varied interests and passions of fans worldwide.
"Soccer is the most watched and well-liked sport in the world, drawing in over a billion spectators worldwide."
Conclusion
Soccer and American football are both big sports with their own stories and fans. Soccer started in 19th century England and is now the most popular sport worldwide. It has over 250 million players in more than 200 countries.
On the other hand, American football began in late 19th century America. It's very popular in the US and Canada but not as big globally.
Both sports are thrilling for fans everywhere. Soccer is loved worldwide, but American football is a favorite in the US. The NFL and the Super Bowl are huge events in American football.
European soccer clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester United make a lot of money from tickets, merchandise, and TV rights. This shows how popular soccer is.
Whether you like soccer's global appeal or American football's strategic play, both sports have their own unique cultures. Understanding their differences helps fans appreciate the variety in competitive sports.
FAQ
What is the difference between soccer and football?
Soccer and American football are two different sports, even though they share the name "football". Soccer is played mainly with the feet and aims to kick a round ball into a net. American football, however, uses the hands to throw, carry, and catch a ball shaped like an egg. The goal is to carry the ball into the opponent's end zone for a touchdown.
What are the origins of the terms "soccer" and "football"?
In the late 19th century, British students made "Association football" shorter to "socca", then "socker", and finally "soccer". This was to tell it apart from American football in North America. Today, "soccer" is often used in the US, but in the UK, the sport is called the "Beautiful Game".
How are the balls different in soccer and American football?
Soccer balls are round, measuring 68 cm to 70 cm in circumference. They must be inflated to 8.5 to 15.6 pounds per square inch and weigh between 410 g and 450 g. American footballs are shaped like an egg and have big stitches for better grip when throwing. They are also known as "pigskins" because they used to be made from pig skin.
What are the differences in the playing fields?
American football fields have lines every ten yards, with an "end zone" and two goalposts at each end. Soccer fields are simpler, with two semicircles and a box 18 yards from the goal for the goalkeeper. Both fields are about 100 meters long, but soccer fields are much wider.
How do the scoring and objectives differ?
In soccer, the goal is to kick the ball into the other team's net for a goal. The team with the most goals wins. American football focuses on "touchdowns" - carrying the ball into the end zone. Touchdowns are worth 6 points, with an extra point if the team kicks through the posts.
How do the teams and substitutions differ?
Both sports have 11 players on the field at a time. In soccer, the same 11 players play the whole game, with up to 3 substitutions. American football teams change players often, with up to 45 players in a game and unlimited substitutions.
What are the major leagues and governing bodies?
The top league in American football is the National Football League (NFL). For soccer, the top leagues include the UEFA Champions League, English Premier League, Spanish La Liga, and German Bundesliga. The International Federation of American Football (IFAF) governs American football, while FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) oversees soccer.