Captains are the leaders of the team, and the success of every team depends on who is in charge of the team’s pep talks on the pitch. So who is the best football captain in the world?

In modern football, we have had the luxury of seeing big names such as Sergio Ramos, Steven Gerrard, Francesco Totti and Manuel Neuer don the captain’s armband.

Kevin De Bruyne, who led Man City to their first trophy, is among the top captains for 2024. Others include Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Lionel Messi.

In this article you will find out who are the best football captain in the world today.

Best Football Captains: TOP 10

Here, you can find information about the greatest captains in football.

1. Kevin De Bruyne- Best Football Captain in Football

captain-of-football-team

Team: Manchester City

Kevin De Bruyne is one of the best captains in the world right now after an outstanding season in 2023. The Belgian led Manchester City to a historic treble, the Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.

The Belgian is rated as one of the best midfielders in world football.

2. Giovanni Di Lorenzo- 2nd Best Football Captain in the World

Team: Napoli

Giovanni Di Lorenzo is Napoli’s captain and one of the reasons why the team has thrived on the domestic and European stage.

At a time when the club has seen the departure of some of its most important players, such as Lorenzo Insigne, Fabian Ruiz and Dries Mertens, the Partenopei have been a surprise package.

He captained the team to victory in the Italian Serie A for the first time in thirty-three years.

3. Lorenzo Pellegrini

Team: AS Roma

The Italian was chosen to lead the team in 2021. He struck up a good relationship with coach José Mourinho, who introduced significant changes to the team.

For Lorenzo Pellegrini, there is nothing sweeter than being captain of his hometown club. And this has made him better and better.

It would be a perfect tenure as captain of the Rome-based club, but a defeat to Sevilla in the final of the Europa League 2023 was a major blow.

4. Álvaro Morata 

Team: Spanish national team

Álvaro Morata, star of Atlético de Madrid, is the captain of the Spanish men’s national team that won the UEFA Nations League 2022/23.

In addition to his role as captain, he played an important part in the team’s success at the finals.

5. Darlington Nagbe 

Team: Columbus Crew SC

Columbus Crew beat Los Angeles FC to lift their third MLS Cup title last year.

Darlington Nagbe captained the Columbus Crew to the title in the final.

6. Martin Ødegaard

Team: Arsenal FC

Premier League football fans would recognise Martin Ødegaard’s contributions to the team.

He was elected to captain Arsenal and doubles as captain of the Norwegian men’s national team, a position he has held since 2011.

This season, the Norwegian has been in top form for the Gunners and has been able to match his qualities on and off the pitch. Thanks to his leadership, Arsenal are in the title race.

Martin Ødegaard has led the young Arsenal team consistently in the Premier League title race.

7. Lionel Messi 

best-captain-in-football-Messi

Team: Inter Miami CF

Lionel Messi is one of the legendary football player, in his first season in the United States, triumphed with Inter Miami in the League Cup tournament.

The Miami club won the trophy against MLS side Nashville’s SC.

Messi, however, was unable to replicate the same in MLS, as Inter Miami failed to reach the MLS Cup playoffs.

8. Guillermo Ochoa

Team: Mexican National Team

Guillermo Ochoa was the captain of the Mexican men’s national football team, which won the CONCACAF Gold Cup last year.

Ochoa has been with the national team for some time and has won several trophies.

9. Jesús Navas

Team: Sevilla CF

Former Manchester City player Jesús Navas was also one of the most successful captains of football of the previous year. 

He captained the Andalusian club to success in the UEFA Europa League. The team also participated in the UEFA Super Cup against Manchester City.

Navas has been with the club since 2017 and has won the UEFA Europa League twice in 2019-20 and 2022-23.

10. Tom Lockyer

Team: Luton Town

Welsh footballer Tom Lockyer successfully captained his side to promotion to the Premier League.

The Welshman has been with the club since 2020 and played an important role in the team’s final promotion playoff win over Coventry City. He plays as a central defender at the club.

Qualities of a Great Captain

Great team captains are more than just players on the field; they’re leaders who inspire their teammates to do their best. They possess qualities like determination, resilience, and hard work, setting an example for others to follow. 

These captains have excellent communication skills, both on and off the field, helping to keep their team organized and motivated during games.

Whether it’s giving directions, offering encouragement, or leading by example through their own performance, they play an important role in guiding their team to success.

Captaincy Challenges

While being a football captain is an honor, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the toughest parts is managing the diverse personalities and playing styles within the team. 

Captains must navigate different egos and backgrounds, working to foster unity and teamwork among their teammates. They also face pressure situations, such as important matches or intense media scrutiny, where they need to stay calm and focused to lead their team effectively.

Balancing the team’s collective goals with the individual needs of each player can also be challenging. Captains must push their teammates to perform at their best while also providing support and encouragement when needed. 

This requires a delicate balance and a deep understanding of each player’s strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best football captain in the world shows great leadership in different leagues and games. 

Kevin De Bruyne’s performance for Manchester City is notable. Together with players like Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Alvaro Morata, they highlight how football leadership matters worldwide. Each captain plays a unique role in their team’s success, inspiring others.

F.A.Q

What is a football captain❓

A football captain is a player chosen to lead their team on the field. They are responsible for representing their team during pre-match ceremonies, communicating with referees during games, and providing leadership to their teammates.

How are football captains selected❓

They are often chosen by the team’s coach or manager based on qualities such as leadership skills, experience, and on-field performance. Sometimes, players may vote to elect their captain.

What qualities make a good football captain❓

Good football captains possess leadership skills, communication abilities, and strong on-field performance. They inspire and motivate their teammates while also representing their team with dignity and respect.

Can a player be captain of multiple teams❓

✅ Yes, some players may serve as captains for both their club and national teams. This is often a reflection of their leadership qualities and experience in the game.

Do football captains have any special responsibilities❓

Yes, team captains have several special responsibilities, including leading team discussions, motivating teammates, communicating with referees, and representing their team in official ceremonies.

What happens if the captain is substituted during a match❓

If the captain is substituted during a match, the team may choose a new captain from the remaining players on the field. This decision is often made by the coach or manager.

Who was the best captain in football history❓

Kevin De Bruyne leading Manchester City.

Posted in Facts about football

Most expensive football boots are more than just a piece of gear. They are also a way of expressing one’s style and personality.

Some of the world’s best players have worn the most expensive and exclusive boots, often customized to their liking and needs. But which boots have the highest price tag ever? 

Here is a list of the most expensive football boots of all time, based on the retail price or the auction value.

10. Nike Mercurial Vapor SL (2008) – £250

One of football’s legends, Cristiano Ronaldo, wore these shoes during the best years of his career at Manchester United, where he won the Ballon d’Or and the Champions League.

They were made of carbon fiber, making them incredibly light and durable. Only 2,000 pairs were produced, making them a rare collector’s item.

9. Adidas X Speedportal+ (2023) – £250

The latest speed boot from Adidas, the X Speedportal+, features knitted upper and grip elements for enhanced control and acceleration. 

expensive-football-boots-in-all-time

They are worn by some of the fastest and deadliest strikers in the game, such as Mohamed Salah, Lionel Messi, and Alessia Russo.

8. Nike Mercurial Superfly CR7 Cristiano Ronaldo “Rare Gold” (2015) – £300

These boots were a special edition made for Ronaldo after he won his third Ballon d’Or in 2015. 

They were coated with gold and had micro-diamonds embedded in the CR7 logo. Only 333 pairs were made, and one was sold for $2,000 on StockX, making it the most expensive football boot ever sold on the platform.

7. Nike Mercurial Vapor Rosa (2008) – £300

These boots were a bold and controversial choice by Nike, as they were bright pink and black. 

They were designed to stand out on the pitch and catch the attention of the fans and the media. They were worn by Franck Ribery, Didier Drogba, and Cristiano Ronaldo, among others.

6. Nike Mercurial Vapor IX CR7 Galaxy (2013) – £300

These boots were another special edition for Ronaldo, inspired by his nickname “The Galaxy.” They had a metallic silver upper with a galaxy print and a blue soleplate. These boots were also adorned with the CR7 logo and the number 7. 

They were released in limited quantities and became a sought-after item for collectors and fans.

5. Adidas Predator Instinct (2014) – £350

The last Predator before Adidas, the discontinued Predator Instinct, was a modern and sleek version of the classic boot. It had a synthetic upper with rubber zones for enhanced grip and power. 

most-expensive-football-boots-ever

It was worn by some of the best midfielders and attackers in the world, such as Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria, and Luis Suarez.

4. Nike Mercurial SL (2008) – £400

These boots, made entirely of carbon fiber, were a revolutionary and experimental design by Nike. They weighed only 185 grams and were supposed to offer unparalleled speed and agility. 

Cristiano Ronaldo wore them in the 2008 Champions League final, where he scored the opening goal. However, they were also very fragile and prone to breaking, and only 2,008 pairs were made.

3. Nike Hypervenom Phantom Transform (2015) – £450

These boots were a unique and innovative concept by Nike, as they changed color depending on the temperature. They started as black but turned orange when they got warmer. 

Nike Hypervenom Phantom Transform boots were meant to reflect the transformation of the players from cold-blooded to fiery on the pitch. They were worn by Neymar, Wayne Rooney, and Harry Kane, among others.

2. Nike Mercurial Vapor III R9 (2006) – £550

These boots were a tribute to one of the greatest strikers of all time, Ronaldo Nazario, also known as R9. They were based on the original Mercurial Vapor he wore in the 1998 World Cup, where he scored four goals. 

Nike Mercurial Vapor III R9 had a yellow and green upper with the R9 logo and the Brazilian flag. They were released in limited numbers and became a collector’s dream.

1. Nike Mercurial Superfly CR7 Quinhentos (2016) – £600Thes

These boots were the most expensive football boots ever made by Nike and were a homage to Ronaldo’s 500th career goal. They had a metallic silver upper with a red and black gradient and a gold soleplate. 

most-expensive-football-boots

These most expensive boots also had the CR7 logo and the number 500 on the heel. They were released in limited quantities and only available through the Nike Football App.

Conclusion

In conclusion, most expensive football boots are a functional necessity, a fashion statement, and a status symbol. Some of the most expensive football boots ever made or sold reflect the achievements, preferences, and personalities of some of the greatest players in history. 

Whether made of gold, carbon fiber, or diamonds, these boots are more than footwear. They are works of art.

What makes the Nike Mercurial Superfly CR7 Quinhentos the most expensive football boots ever❓

The Nike Mercurial Superfly CR7 Quinhentos is the most expensive football boot ever due to its limited release, metallic silver upper, red and black gradient, gold soleplate, and special homage to Cristiano Ronaldo’s 500th career goal.

Which football boots hold the title for being the most expensive ever made❓

The Nike Mercurial Superfly CR7 Quinhentos, released in 2016, holds the title for the most expensive football boots ever made, priced at £600.

Why is the Nike Mercurial SL (2008) considered significant in the list of expensive football boots❓

Nike Mercurial SL (2008) is notable for its revolutionary design, entirely made of carbon fiber, which Cristiano Ronaldo wore during the 2008 Champions League final.

What are CR7 boots❓

Cristiano Ronaldo has a longstanding association with Nike football boots and strongly prefers the renowned Mercurial range, especially the Nike Mercurial Superfly.

What boots does Messi wear❓

Messi wears Adidas X Crazyfast+.

Posted in Facts about football

If you love watching football (soccer in the US) or you are interested in learning more about football (for example you are searching football rules and regulations), then you must have come across the word FIFA either when watching sports news or reading a sports article online. Surprisingly, very few people know what does FIFA mean for despite being familiar with the word. If you are one of them, then you have come to the right place. So, what does FIFA stand for and what role does it play? In this blog, we will discuss in depth what FIFA football hack, means.

What is the purpose of FIFA?

FIFA is the international governing body for the sport of football (soccer). Its purpose is to organize and oversee international football competitions, set rules and regulations, and promote the development and growth of the sport worldwide.

When was FIFA founded?

FIFA was founded on May 21, 1904.

How many member associations are part of FIFA?

As of September 2021, FIFA has 211 member associations from around the world.

Where is the headquarters of FIFA located?

The headquarters of FIFA is located in Zurich, Switzerland.

Who is the current president of FIFA?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the current president of FIFA is Gianni Infantino.

What does FIFA Stand For?

The word FIFA stands for International Federation of Association Football. It was established in 1904 and currently has 209 members. It is the most influential football governing body in the world.

Why was FIFA Created?

Now that you know what does FIFA stand for, you are probably wondering why it was created. FIFA has been around for nearly 12 decades and was created to supervise international football competitions in member nations.

FIFA was established in Paris, France and the founder nations include Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, and France. 10 years later, FIFA membership stretched beyond Europe, as 24 nations, including the United States, Canada, Argentina, Chile, and South Africa joined the federation.

fifa hospitality rules soccer

The idea of FIFA came about after an influx of international football games at the beginning of the 20th century. Football officials saw the need to have one body to oversee international games. The seven founding member nations held a meeting in Paris and that is how FIFA came to life.

Under the stewardship of FIFA, soccer has become the most popular sport in the world. It is played by more than 250 million people in over 200 countries. This sport is particularly popular in South and Central America, Europe, and Africa and its influence is quickly growing in Asia and North America.

What Role does FIFA Play in Football?

FIFA is football’s world governing body. As the chief administrative authority, the federation’s main role is to govern everything that concerns football, including overseeing player transfers, formulating and regulating rules of play, establishing rules for refereeing, organizing international competitions like the FIFA World Cup, supporting football development in all member states and research on sports medicine and coaching.

FIFA is also tasked with ensuring that there is constant improvement in football.

what does fifa mean football hack

How does FIFA Operate?

Like any other organization, FIFA has a chain of command with the FIFA president being on top of the chain of command. The FIFA Council which comprises the executive committee is the key decision-making body. All members of the FIFA Council are elected by the FIFA Congress. The council only makes long-term policies while the administrative committee is responsible for the running of the day-to-day activities of the organization.

Is FIFA a Profit or Non-profit Organization?

FIFA is a non-profit organization. This means that all income that it generates is reinvested back into football development. FIFA generates its money from its major competitions including the men’s and women’s world cup which happens after every four years and the FIFA confederations cup.

For instance, between 2019 and 2022, FIFA generated a revenue of about $8 billion. The company also generates money from sponsorship from major brands. For instance, between 2019 and 2022, the federation earned more than $5 billion from sponsorship.

How is FIFA Ranking Done?

FIFA football ranking is a ranking system where national teams are ranked based on their performance. The Ranking applies to all members of the federation. The ranking system was introduced in 1992 but has gone through several changes to make the process fair and more transparent. The model used in determining a team’s ranking is simple: the more successful a team is in FIFA competitions, the higher its ranking.

table results

For the 25 years that this ranking system has been in place, only 8 teams have clinched the top spot. They include France, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Argentina, Brazil, and Germany. Brazil has clinched the top spot for the longest time.

Now, this is how the process is done. The first thing that FIFA considers when determining a team’s ranking is the number of points that a team has garnered from playing senior international matches. They calculate the average point that the team has garnered on games played over the last 12 months.

The final outcome is calculated by adding the average points of the last 12 months plus the average of 36 previous months. The team with the highest points is ranked top while the team with the least number of points is ranked bottom. It is important to note the FIFA women’s rankings are also calculated the same way.

What is the recommended FIFA football field size?

Recommended FIFA football field size is 105m x 68m. The field must also be marked with continuous lines and be rectangular in shape.

fifa football field size women's rankings

Does FIFA have soccer rules?

Yes, FIFA has clearly outlined FIFA rules soccer that must be followed by all teams to the latter. For instance, the ball used in the game is required to have a specific weight and size. Additionally, the field of play should be rectangular in shape and should have well-marked boundary lines. The duration of the match should last for 90 minutes but the referee has the discretion to add extra minutes to compensate for the time wasted during the match. These are just some of the many rules that FIFA has put in place.

Why did FIFA create the World Cup?

The idea of the world cup first came from two individuals: Henri Delaunay and Jules Rimet. After long deliberations, FIFA adopted this idea because of the growing influence of football. They realized that football had become big enough and deserved its own platform outside of the Olympics. The first world cup was held in 1930.

Conclusion

If you were asking yourself “What does FIFA stand for?” we hope this article has answered your question. FIFA is the world’s most important governing body for football. It plays the role of overseeing international football competitions and promoting the sport in all its member nations, fifa hospitality is huge. As a non-profit organization, all revenue regenerated is reinvested back into the sport.

Posted in Facts about football

Want to know the differences between Rugby vs American football? Well, you’ve come to the right place. But if you want to know something else, you can also read about Football vs Basketball.

What is the main difference between a rugby ball and an American football ball?

The main difference between the two balls is their shape. A rugby ball is more oval-shaped, with a longer and narrower design, while an American football ball is more pointed and has a more elongated shape.

What materials are used to make Rugby and American football balls?

Rugby balls are typically made of leather or synthetic materials, while American footballs are made of leather or rubber.

Are the Rugby and American football balls different in size?

Yes, the two balls are slightly different in size. A rugby ball is usually about 27 centimeters long and 60 centimeters in circumference, while an American football is around 28 centimeters long and 56 centimeters in circumference.

Can you use a rugby ball in American football, or vice versa?

While you could technically use one type of ball in the other sport, it would not be allowed in official games as the rules dictate the specific type of ball that must be used.

Which sport is more popular, rugby or American football?

It depends on the region. Rugby is more popular in many parts of the world, particularly in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, while American football is more popular in the United States.

American football and rugby are among the most popular games in the world besides soccer/football. However, many people often confuse the two sports. In fact, there is a debate about which of the two sports is better and more popular. Well, what you need to know is that the two sports share lots of similarities and have differences too.

Keep reading to learn the differences between rugby ball and American football.

Is a Rugby Ball the Same As a Football?

When it comes to rugby and American football, many people find it hard to differentiate between the two sports.

difference between rugby ball and american football

In fact, there is an ongoing debate about which sport is popular and better. Well, if you look from a wider perspective, both rugby and American football share similarities. However, the differences between these two great sports keep the debate alive.

Read on to learn the differences between rugby and American football.

Rugby vs American football ball

What about Rugby vs American football ball? If you look at the balls from a general perspective, they look similar, but a careful look will reveal a difference between rugby ball and american football. The balls are of the same length – 11 inches, but the ends of each ball are different.

The rugby ball shape has flat ends, while the American football ball has sharp ends. You may be wondering what’s the purpose of the shaped ends. Well, the ball’s shape affects the game, especially gameplay dynamics.

is a rugby ball the same as a football

For example, long throws are common in American football. Since the American football ball has sharp ends, it cuts through the air allowing the ball to fly farther. The ball is also lighter and weighs only 200 g compared to the rugby ball which can weigh up to 460 g.

So many people think that Rugby ball vs American football are the same, but they are different.

Number of players

In rugby, there are two types of codes – rugby union and rugby league. Rugby union, 15 players are in each team with 7 to 8 substitutes on the bench. In rugby league, each team has 13 players with 4 to 5 substitutes.

We also have rugby sevens where teams have seven players. In American football, each team has 11 players with 4 players as substitutes. This makes the total number of players in each team to be 15.

american football vs rugby ball

Legend has it that the founders of American football decided 11 players on each side was enough. To make this decision, they considered the size of the pitch which is slightly smaller than the rugby pitch.

Rugby vs American football size of pitch

Need more Rugby vs American football differences? In rugby union, the field is 70 meters wide and 144 meters long while in rugby league, the pitch is 68 meters wide and 100 meters long. This does not include the line-markings, such as the dead ball zone and touchlines.

When it comes to Rugby 7s, it’s played on a standard rugby union pitch measuring up to 70 meters wide and 100 meters long. In all rugby playing fields, you have two H-shaped goalposts on each goal line.

An American football field is 48.8 meters wide and 100 m long which makes the entire surface of the football field to be 1.32 acres or 57,600 square feet.

background of games

Origin and geographical location

Legend has it that rugby originated at Rugby School in Warwickshire, London in 1893 during a game of school football. In 1871, they formed the first Rugby Football Union which had 21 teams.

By the end of the 19th century, the game had already spread among the working class in Scotland, England, and Wales. Today, people play rugby worldwide, but it’s popular in Australia, New Zealand, Wales, and England.

At Rugby School, the rugby we know today was known as rugby football. The game found its way to America in the 19th century when British colonists introduced rugby to Americans. Today, the most popular tournament is the NFL playoffs. This is an elimination tournament of 32 teams hosted every year.

Rugby vs American football level of protection

Rugby and American football are full-contact sports, but the level of protection differs between the two sports. In rugby, the level of protection given to players is minimal. Basically, they usually wear only shin and teeth protection.

Level of Protection

When it comes to American football, the level of protection is better than that of rugby. Players in American football are usually equipped with protection such as:

Chest pads

Helmets

Shoulder pads

Teeth, and leg protection

Hip pads

Both American football and rugby are full-contact sports with huge amounts of physical contact. However, the impact differs. You might think that the lack of equipment or protection impacts the health of rugby players more than that of American football players.

Well, you’ll be surprised to know that the health impact of American football is significant compared to rugby. In fact, contact is more destructive. Since American football players are usually equipped better, they have more confidence. But this results in long-term health impacts and serious injuries.

different helmets in game

Tackles

In rugby, the tackled players must release the oval-shaped ball making it available for both teams to play. That means in rugby, you’ll probably see 10 to 20 tackles before the referee stops that play as a result of foul play or an infraction. From there, the ball can be in play for minutes.

In American football, teams usually make four attempts to make 10 yards. If the players fail, the ball is usually turned over. This is the reason why on fourth down, the teams in American football will often punt for field position.

This is similar to the concept in rugby where any player can kick the ball at any time. However, the difference is, in rugby, all kicks are live balls for either time to attack and win. However, in American football, when a punt is boomed off, only the defending team has the right to the ball.

Conclusion

Although you might not notice it at first glance, american football vs rugby ball has a difference.

rugby ball shape

Rugby is widely played in countries such as the UK, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Over the past years, the game enjoyed popularity in countries such as Argentina, Japan, and the US. Basically, the game enjoys a significant following in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres

When it comes to American football, it’s primarily popular in the US and Canada where it enjoys a huge following. However, the game has started to have a growing international following particularly in Mexico.

Overall, rugby enjoys a broader following compared to American football, and it’s also played in more countries than the latter.

Posted in Facts about football

Disabilities, deformities and medical conditions are not supposed to hold someone back from achieving their most authentic self. Famous football players with disabilities (read about powerchair football) have overcome these challenges and accomplished massive things in their favourite sporting activities.

How many football players have been paralyzed?

10-15% of all football players have experienced spinal injuries.

What is pan disability (in) football?

These are all forms of disability in football.

What disabilities can players with play football?

Players with all kinds of disability can take part in football.

Can disabled people play soccer?

Yes. Disabled people can play soccer.

Can disabled people play American football?

Disabled people can play American football though there are limitations to how they will be allowed to play.


Following are some famous footballers with disabilities but did not let them get in their way. They have done marvellous things in their lives and made it clear that disabilities should not be why people avoid reaching for greatness.

They have made an impact in the football world by overcoming their disabilities and showing the world they have talent that needs to be seen. Let’s now take a look at the famous football players that brought inspiration to the world despite their condition.

Famous Football Players With Disabilities

Edgar Davids

Edgar Steven Davids is a Dutch professional footballer and is currently a coach. He has played for great teams such as AC Milan, Barcelona, Juventus, Inter Milan, Tottenham Hotspur, and Ajax. Edgar is easy to recognize when on the field owing to his dreadlock hair and protective goggles, which he had to wear due to his disability.

famous football and soccer players with disabilities

He suffered from glaucoma, which he did not let get in the way of his greatness. He was known to be combative and very energetic while on the field and to have a hard tackling style while playing.

His energy and creativity on the field are evidence of the fact that he was still able to be exceptional as a player despite having glaucoma. This should encourage the rest of us to try and be good at what we do since this is what we can do. Currently, Edgar is not acting as a player, but he plays his role as a coach.

Mane Garrincha

Born Manuel Francisco dos Santos, Garrincha was a Brazilian football player who played the right winger. He is a professional player and regarded as one of the best players. Others recognize him for his exceptional dribbling skills. His skills were globally recognized in the 1958 and 1962 world cup victories by Brazil.

how many football players have been paralyzed

For instance, Pele was injured in the 1962 world cup, and Garrincha took his place, leading Brazil to victory. Garrincha had the congenital disability of a misshaped spine, and one leg was shorter than the other. This would cause the right leg to point inwards while the other leg pointed outwards.

Despite this defect, he was still a good player, and the performance that he put up on the field won him many awards. Many European teams tried signing him into their teams once he had gained recognition. This is all owing to the great dedication and a level of skill that is hard to match.

Alex Sanchez

The Spanish striker has some of the best football skills, and you will be fascinated by the performance that he showcases while he is on the field. He is hardworking and is also known for his intelligence.

footballers with disabilities

Alex was born with one hand but did not let this get in the way of achieving the best in football. He is also a passionate academic and has a law degree. As a striker or a midfielder, he portrays the best show of talent on the field, acting as inspiration for the many others that are feeling inhibited by their disabilities. His intelligence is evident both on and off the field and in academics.

Cliff Bastin

Bastin had difficulty hearing which deteriorated as he got into his playing career. Despite the deafness, Bastin could still play and score as many goals as he could. He is one of the famous soccer players with disabilities. He was also part of the war effort but was discharged as his hearing problem became more serious.

Cliff stopped playing after a knee injury, but during his active playing life, he proved that he could perform an excellent performance and show the world how talented he was.

Robert Schlienz

He went to war before his football career even began. During the war, he got a bullet, which shattered his face. However, this earned him a graceful discharge and allowed him to join his football career.

soccer players with disabilities

He was then in a car crash leading to his arm amputation, and this, to the world, seemed to be the end of his career. However, this did not stop him from getting back on the pitch, where he was able to show the world how good he could play while on the field. The fact that he could get back on the pitch after the car crash is evidence of Robert’s will, courage, and passion for the game.

Gordon Banks

Gordon Banks was involved in a severe car crash in October 1997, causing him to lose all sight in his right eye. 34 at the time, he retired for four years but eventually returned to the game. He was a goalkeeper and was known to be exceptionally talented. Despite his eye problems, he could handle his position on the field quite well. And his talent was evident in how he handled himself on the football pitch.

Hector Castro

Yet another football legend was one-armed, but this did not dim his career. Even with one arm, Castro was still strong and talented; this was evident in his playing on the field. He was a robust striker gifted and scored goals for Uruguay in various tournaments.
His strength was apparent when he was on the field, as he could efficiently perform well and achieve goals for his country. Castro was talented, and his physical disability did not deter him from getting onto the football field.

football players with disabilities

Conclusion

Physical disabilities are not meant to keep people from achieving greatness. It should enable them to show the world how good they can be despite the deformities and conditions that they suffer from.

The above players struggled with physical disabilities (disability football overview), but this did not keep them off the field. They were talented and made an impression in the football world through their playing. True talent always shines despite the odds. And these are just some people who have shown their exceptional nature on the field.

Posted in Facts about football

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world (read about why is football better than basketball). It’s also one of the most complex. To win a soccer match, you need to think fast and make quick decisions. That’s why it’s essential to know how to offsides in soccer. In this article offsides in soccer explained.

What is the offside rule in soccer?

The offside rule prevents players from being nearer to the opponent’s goal line than the ball and the second-to-last defender when the ball is played to them.

Who is the second-to-last defender in the offside rule?

The second-to-last defender is typically the last outfield player, excluding the goalkeeper, between the attacking player and the goal line when the ball is played.

When is a player not considered offside?

A player is not offside if they are level with the second-to-last defender or level with the last two defenders when the ball is played to them.

When is a player not penalized for being in an offside position?

A player in an offside position is not penalized if they are not involved in active play and do not gain an advantage from that position.

Can a player be offside from a goal kick, throw-in, or corner kick?

No, a player cannot be offside directly from a goal kick, throw-in, or corner kick.

Offside is when a player is on the same team as the opposing team but not playing on their own goal. Offside meaning in football is very essential. To prevent your team from scoring, you must be able to spot the offside player and move quickly to the other side of the field. If you succeed, your team will score, and you will be awarded a point. Every football player should understand all soccer offsides rules. 

offsides and offside meaning in football

Offsides in Soccer Explained + 10 Tips

1. Know where the ball is.

Every player needs to know where the ball is on the field because if you are in the right place, you will see the offside player before seeing you or your team. If you are in a good position and can see the offside player, move quickly to your side of the field. It would be best to never run across the area with an offside player because that will draw a foul call on your team. Instead, keep running to your side of the field until you can get back into position and stop an opposing goal from being scored. This rule of offside in football may keep changing after every season. 

2. Don’t make eye contact.

When you are in the proper position on the field, you should look directly at the offsides in football players. However, if you make eye contact, they will probably spot you and run towards your goal to get a shot on the plan. Avoid making eye contact with offsides in soccer player by keeping your head down and looking at the ground instead of the players’ eyes. It will be harder for an opposing player to spot you when you look at the ground.

offsides in soccer explained

3. Don’t move until you see what is happening around you.

If no one is near you and no one is moving towards your goal, don’t move until something happens that tells you to move. For example, when you see a player get a shot off on goal, that is when you should move. Likewise, if an opposing player gets a shot off on purpose and misses the net, it is okay to move because you are not in danger of being scored on.

4. Don’t run towards the goal if there is no one near your goal.

When there is no one near your goal, it is okay to run towards it so that you can make a save. However, this is only if no other players near your goal might score on your attempt at a save. You should never run towards the goal if other players are nearby because they might score on your move towards their goal.

5. Don’t run towards the goal if other players are nearby.

If you see an opposing player near your goal, don’t run towards it because they might score on your move towards their goal. If there are no other players near your goal and you still want to move towards it, try to create distance between you and them so that they will not score on you.

soccer offside rule of offside in football

6. If a player is heading towards your goal, don’t try to block the shot.

If an opposing player is heading towards your goal and you can make a save, it is okay for you to try to block the shot. However, if other players nearby might score on your move towards their goal, it would be best for you to stop moving towards their goal and instead move back towards your own goal.

7. Don’t stand in an opponent’s way of a pass into the goal.

If you see an opposing player standing in your way of a pass into their own goal and they are not trying to make a play on the ball or pass the ball, then it would be best for you to move out of the way of their path.

8. If you can make a save, don’t try to pass the ball or kick it towards your opponent.

If you are in a position to make a save and an opposing player is nearby, it is okay for you to try and pass the ball or kick the ball towards them so that they will not be able to score on your move towards their goal. However, if other players nearby might score on your move towards their goal, it would be best for you to stop moving towards their goal and instead move back towards your own goal.

soccer offsides rules

9. Don’t throw the ball out of bounds or into your own goal.

If you are in a position to make a save and an opposing player is nearby, it is okay for you to try and pass the ball or kick the ball towards them so that they will not be able to score on your move towards their goal. However, if other players nearby might score on your move towards their goal, it would be best for you to stop moving towards their goal and instead move back towards your own goal.

However, if an opposing player is in a position to score on you while you are in the act of making a save, it would be best for you to throw the ball out of bounds or into your own goal.

10. Don’t try to pass the ball or kick it towards your opponent.

If an opposing player is in a position to make a save and you are nearby, it is okay for you to try and pass the ball or kick the ball towards them so that they will not be able to score on your move towards their goal. However, if other players nearby might score on your move towards their goal, it would be best for you to stop moving towards their goal and instead move back towards your own goal. This soccer offside rule is significant in football. 

If an opposing player is in a position to make a save and there are no other players nearby who could score on them, it would be best for you to try and pass the ball or kick the ball away from that player so that they will not be able to get the ball and score on you.

Conclusion

Offsides in soccer are a fundamental rule for soccer, especially in the penalty area. Soccer is a team sport, and it requires cooperation between players. If two or more players could score on an opposing player, then the opposing player must not move towards the ball; instead, they must wait until no other players nearby could score on that opponent. The offsides in soccer explained well above. 

Posted in Facts about football

The world of sports has several games, each with a set path that draws unique entertainment to both players and fans. For example, football and basketball are some of most games played around the world, each with fans glued by the culture of those games. Statistically, football is the most popular game in the world, with more than 3.5 billion fans. Most fans of football come from Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. With more than 400 million fans, basketball is mainly recognized in America and other parts of the world. Although those games bring about joy, entertainment, and much fantasy in sports, which is better, football or basketball? Or can you compare football vs basketball?

Which sport is harder: American football or basketball?

The harder sport is American football. It requires more physical fitness and better skills.

Which sport is harder: football (soccer) or basketball?

The harder sport is football (soccer). Its players have to be faster and the rules of the game make it much harder for them to score at least one point.

How many players are on a football (soccer) team?

A football team typically consists of 11 players on the field.

How many players are on a basketball team?

A basketball team usually consists of 5 players on the court.

What is the primary objective in football?

The primary objective in football is to score goals by getting the ball into the opponent’s net.

What is the primary objective in basketball?

The primary objective in basketball is to score points by shooting the ball into the opponent’s hoop and preventing the opposing team from scoring.

Which is better football or basketball?

That is the question that has been challenging most individuals in the field of games. But to be sincere, everyone will have their own and unique views regarding this debate agenda. If you ask any fan of one of those games, “football vs basketball, which is better” the supporter will pull the advantage on what they support. That definitely can tell the goodness of a game; whether football or basketball depends on the individual differences. Some will say football is better than basketball based on a particular perception, maybe the mode of play, rules surrounding the game, or the fan that comes out of the game.

Is football better than basketball?

Both basketball and football are dynamic and fun sports in their own unique and specific ways. No one of them can replace the other. The intensity, drama, strategy, and athleticism that the sports possess are unmatched; hence hard to tell which is the best. So, it simply means that both sports are better in their unique way. Depending on the individual likeness and preference, football can be a better sport. 

which is better football or (vs) basketball - ball at the goal

Why is football better than basketball?

Although both games are better, here is why football is the best sport over basketball. 

a. Football keeps players physically fit than basketball.

Football has a lot of running compared to basketball, and the playground is larger. Running and kicking increases stamina, improves bone and muscle strength, and reduces body fat. On the other hand, although there is running in basketball, it is not so complicated. Generally, football engages almost every body part, which keeps players fit.  

b. Football is a universal or global sport. 

Although people similarly love all sports, football has the most love from people across the globe. Unlike basketball, football has acquired more attention and value on international platforms. For instance, over two hundred countries engage in the sport and play global tournaments. Additionally, more people know about football than about basketball.

Grass ball and the player

c. Football has no height limit.

The other feature that makes football better than basketball is that it does not limit or restrict height. That means that anybody, regardless of their height, can engage in the sport. You can effortlessly play football even if you are five or six feet tall. However, basketball-only needs individuals who are six to seven feet tall therefore restricting others from playing it. 

d. Football has no seasonal restrictions. 

Football does not have any offseason, meaning that players can play soccer all year round; summer, winter, autumn, and spring. Conteaily basketball only has its playing seasons during autumn and winter. 

why is football better than basketball - two teams

e. Football fans have a larger presence.

Unlike basketball, soccer’s fan base is enormous. There are millions of soccer fans internationally who cheer for their teams. basketball, on the other hand, does not have as rich a fan base as soccer. 

f. Soccer has less scoring, which makes the goals more exciting.

Football has less scoring; this makes the game even better and interesting as the team’s rival towards scoring. But in basketball, scoring is easy; this means every goal shot is less exciting. Additionally, due to reasons like missing the shot, great goalie, or defense, it is pretty challenging to score a goal. So, when a team makes a goal, fans become more excited. Fans often build excitement and eagerness for a goal since goals are hard to make. 

g. Football has a more profound and richer history.

Football dates back to over two thousand years in England but also other countries like some, ancient Greece, parts of Central America, and China, played it. The sport quickly expanded and gained popularity in different countries and became a global sport. Due to its rich history, it has become better than basketball. Basketball was started in 1891 by a physical instructor looking for a sport with fewer injuries. 

Is basketball better than football?

Yes, from the perception of the nature of the two games, basketball is better than football. For example, football has an intense collision of players and much use of extreme efforts that basketball lacks. But to support the argument that basketball is better than football, here are some main reasons.

The player hits the basket

Why basketball is better than football?

a. Low occurrence of Injuries 

Basketball is a game where players find it easier to navigate through opponents than football. It is a game meant to use less effort but full of incredible skills. Collisions in football among players are high compared to that of basketball. Even if injuries occur during basketball play, they won’t be severe like that of football.

b. It needs small space to play

Unlike football, you can play basketball in a small space like a showroom; you need just a ball and a hoop.

why is basketball is better than football - a player throws the ball into the basket

c. Easy during Tournaments  

Tournaments with basketball games can take a shorter period, and many teams get involved because hoopers frequently can play several more games than football players. In other words, footballers find it harder to play consecutive games or several games in a day than hoopers find it easy in basketball.

d. Basketball has no specific number of players to start a match

Unlike football that requires a particular number of players for a game to be complete, basketball does not. You can shoot alone, or with a friend or as a group. Regardless of the number of players you have, you can play the sport.

e. Basketball has simple rules. 

Unlike football, basketball has simple rules. Football rules are very situational and complicated, but basketball’s rules are simple and easy to learn. 

Football vs Basketball – Conclusion

Comparing which is better, football vs basketball can take a wide response because how one views each game is not the same way the other individual does. Although in some cases, we can agree football is better than basketball or basketball is better than football when there is a consideration of a single perception, for example, the physical contact in each game. Therefore, to assert one game is better than the other, some ideas should be considered and compared to come out with a solid agreement.

Posted in Facts about football

In all sports, football is the most loved game by many, with an estimation of more than 3.5 billion fans. In the next article you can read about football rules. The love of the football game is not just by the name. But great activities such as displays of high classic competition among the teams. Besides, the football game has gained popularity due to professional players who have made the game enjoyable. Out of football professionalism, several heroes have existed and built a legacy in the mindsets of football lovers. There are Legendary football players you can mention by their name before any football fan. And you will be surprised how the fan knows that player.

Who is considered one of the greatest football players of all time?

Many consider Pelé from Brazil to be one of the greatest football players of all time.

Which player is often referred to as "The King" in football?

Pelé is often referred to as “The King” of football.

Who is the all-time leading goalscorer in international football?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal holds the record for being the all-time leading goalscorer in international football.

Who is known as "The Pharaoh" and is a legendary Egyptian footballer?

Mohamed Salah is known as “The Pharaoh” and is a legendary Egyptian footballer.

Which Argentine player is often compared to Pelé and is considered one of the greatest of all time?

Diego Maradona, who unfortunately passed away in 2020, is often compared to Pelé and is considered one of the greatest football players of all time.

Some legendary football players, even some football fans, may not know them. But those legends’ history revolves around generation to generation. So here are the most well-known and famous legendary footballers in the history of soccer.

7 legendary football players

1. Diego Armando Maradona

Born on October 30th, 1960. And died on November 25th, 2020. Diego Armando Maradona is among the most remarkable World footballers. He was born in Lanus, Argentina, and in his career history, Diego played for several teams. In his senior career, he played for Argentinos Juniors, Napoli, Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Newell’s Old Boys, and Sevilla FC. As well, Diego was a key player for national teams both Argentina and Argentina U20. 

Diego Armando Maradona - legendary football players

As an attacking midfielder and 2nd striker, he showed great tactics in football, setting remarkable fame in the 20th century, winning the FIFA Player award twice. Making passes, dribbling, controlling the ball, and having strong stamina were the skills and features that enabled Diego to be the most recognized player in every game. 

In the 1986 World Cup, Diego, through the tournament, made remarkable goal creation and attempts, having 90 successful dribblings and benefiting his team with more than 53 fouls. Besides making an assist of more than 10 of 14 goals scored during the world cup, Maradona scored the winning goal. There is alot to mention about Diego Maradona and why he is the most recognized football player in football legacy. But let’s see other known legendary football players.

2. Edson Arantes do Nascimento

Edson Arantes do Nascimento

Until you mention Pele, most people may not know Edson Arantes, the greatest footballer of all time. Pele (nicknamed) is a Brazilian footballer and recognized among legendary football players whose legacy remains in the minds of football fans. He was born on October 23rd, 1940, in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Across the 20th century, Pele was among successful soccer legends in FIFA. And he played for New York Cosmos, Santos, and Brazil national teams. Pele is the only player who has won several World cups being recognized as a focal point for every attack in football history. In his senior career, Pele is the only player who managed to score more than 1199 goals. 

3. Zinedine Zidane

Popularly known as Zizou, Zinedine Zidane is a former French footballer whose retirement in football professionalism left many to wish he could continue playing soccer. He was born June 23rd, 1972, in La Castellane-Marseille in France. In his football career, Zidane won several tournaments, including expensive prizes. Through his career in Real Madrid and Juventus, Zizou won the Ballon d’Or. 

Zinedine Zidane

Many recognize Zidane due to the 1998 World Cup where he made an incredible play, enabling his team France to win the finals against Brazil. Zidane was among the legendary soccer players to shoot and score from outside the box in the football history of scoring incredible, unbelievable, and beautiful goals. During the Champions League finals against Bayer Leverkusen, many will remember him for making his team win the tournament.

4.Manuel Francisco dos Santos

Manuel Francisco dos Santos - legendary soccer players

Manuel Francisco dos Santos, commonly known as Garrincha, was born on October 28th, 1933, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and died on January 20th, 1983. Playing on his position of no.7, Garrincha is among iconic football players in the book of legendary football players. He made remarkable and memorable moments for his national team, Brazil, and the Botafogo football club in his career. He is remembered for his tricks, incredible skills, and tricks over opponents. In all world cups he played, Garrincha helped his teammates to shine, including Pele, through creating accurate passes and assists. However, in his last games career, the most memorable action of Garrincha was during the 1962 World Cup by scoring winning goals during the semifinals against Chile.

5. Johan Cruyff

Johan Cruyff

Talking of pioneer players in the list of legendary soccer players, Johan Cruyff is among the topmost footballers who have and will remain in the memories of football fans. Through his football career, Cruyff had a significant impact on both his national team and clubs. He played for Ajax and Barcelona football clubs, but Cruyff’s most remarkable moment is guiding Ajax to win several league titles and European Championships three times. Before joining Barcelona, the club had 14 years of not winning the title, but after Cruyff joined it, he won the first league title. 

6. Lionel Messi

In every game that Messi has, everyone’s an eye on him and expects high skills in dribbling, tricks, freekicks, and scoring at all times. Messi is among the famous, recognized, loved, well-known soccer players recently entering the book of legendary soccer players. Every team opponent played against Messi has enough words to explain who Messi is. 

Lionel Messi - legendary footballers

Defenders who ever met and tried to stop Messi from scoring have no words to utter as he deployed and destroyed them, goalkeepers always finding Messi’s shots behind the net. Just beginning his legacy in 2005, Messi has secured most titles with the football club Barcelona. In his history, Messi has won the Ballon d’Or more than five times. He has also taken his national team to win several cups, although he never won any World Cup tournament.

7. Ronaldo Nazario

Ronaldo Nazario - legendary football players

He is the former Brazilian professional football player who, in his history, built a strong football legacy. Perhaps, he is among the greatest legendary soccer players of all time who played for his national team Brazil, football clubs such as Corinthians, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Cruzeiro, Inter Milan, PSV, and Barcelona. In every game he played, Ronaldo made assists, stunning goals, tricks, freekicks, and dribbling that brought much entertainment and joy to the world of football. 

Legendary soccer players – conclusion

Football is one of the most loved sports that has produced the greatest legendary soccer players of the time. And perhaps, these world football legends have made the taste of soccer a source of entertainment and joy. Most of the legends, in other words, are the key for football fans to stick in the soccer sport; that is why their legacy will remain in the minds of many across the world.

Posted in Facts about football