Football is one of the most forgiving sports to start with. You need no expensive gear, and you learn the basic rules within an hour. Whether you join a club or just play with friends in the park, everyone can join at their own level.
Unsure about the rules? Read the rules. Want more? See all the guides.
"I thought I was way too late to get good, but after a few months of training I already noticed a clear difference."
How football works in short
- Two teams of 11 players (including the goalkeeper) play on a pitch with a goal at each end.
- You win by scoring more goals than the opponent.
- A match lasts 2 × 45 minutes, with a break (plus stoppage time).
- Only the goalkeeper may handle the ball, and only inside their own penalty area.
- Situations like offside, free kick, corner and penalty are explained in the rules.
The positions
A team roughly has four lines: the goalkeeper, the defenders (at the back), the midfielders (linking defence and attack) and the forwards (up front, scoring the goals). As a beginner you soon learn which role suits you.
What you need
- Boots suited to the surface (artificial turf, grass or indoor).
- Shin guards — required at most clubs.
- Comfortable sportswear.
- A ball to practise with between trainings.
Where to play
The easiest way in is to join a club; almost every town has one, with teams for every level and age. Find a club via your national association — the FIFA and the The FA can point you there. No club? A ball in the park already gets you far.
The mistake almost everyone makes
Beginners often look only at the ball and forget to look up at the pitch. They miss chances to pass to a free team-mate and lose the ball faster. Practise glancing up, even while dribbling.
The tip that makes the difference
Practise ball control for a few minutes every day, even without training — against a wall, juggling, or dribbling around the garden. It's those extra minutes that make the difference.
How to get better
Above all, play a lot (small games give the most touches), take the odd training, and work on your technique — worked-out drills with pitch diagrams are in our drill library. Want to be stronger in duels? Read getting better at tackling.
Reliable sources
The official rules are at the FIFA (the world governing body) and your national association such as the The FA.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to start?
Boots suited to the surface, shin guards (required at clubs), comfortable sportswear and a ball to practise.
How many players are in a team?
Eleven per team, including the goalkeeper.
Can I start as an adult?
Definitely. Many clubs have recreational and beginners' teams where you play at your own level.
How do I improve fastest?
Practise ball control daily and play a lot of small games.