Now I know, you’re either cringing at the use of the word “soccer” instead of futbol, or pondering how a sport that occasionally ends in a tie and isn’t ruined by some lame commercial could possibly be the greatest sport in the world. The game has a way of bringing about all types of feelings in an instant. Regardless of FIFA persistently giving the sport a bad rep, FIFA does not manifest what the sport is truly about. Soccer is not just the most popular sport in the world, it is also the greatest. Here's why:
1. Most sports get an "off-season," soccer doesn't
It's a sport that never ends. For many dedicated players and/or fans, there is a league season, a league cup, a club championship, as well as international games all going on at once. If that's not enough soccer, just you wait. Almost every summer there's an international cup or competition of some kind, not to mention friendly games and World Cup qualifying matches.
2. Every four years the World Cup comes around, and it brings the entire planet together
The history of the game is buried into the culture of many countries. The game has a way of uniting countries who otherwise have a lot of differences. Around 715 million people watched the 2006 final match in Germany, and in 2010 the South African World Cup was broadcast in 204 countries on 245 different channels. People of different backgrounds can play it anywhere and there are no language barriers, because everyone speaks soccer.
3. The simplicity of the game is unmatched compared to other sports
Besides an offside call, corner kicks and yellow and red card rules, soccer is all about getting the ball into the opponents net without using your hands. What's easier than understanding that? The fluid play associated with soccer is a feature that captivates many players and fans.
4. You can play anywhere with a minimal amount of equipment (it's super inexpensive)
Poverty does not hinder the game of soccer. Soccer players don't need to spend a ton of money on equipment to play. Countries that are considered developing nations all find ease in playing soccer. The game is played in over 200 countries and has over 3.5 billion fans around the world. The game gives the poor hope and something that can connect them to one another, and teaches them the value of the game.
5. In soccer, there are no physical size advantages
Most sports nowadays have become accustom to developing a certain physique. In some sports, you'll never make it to the top without some specific genetic advantage. In basketball, players who have a height advantage have a major advantage over those who're smaller. In football, most players need to be physical enthusiasts to ever consider becoming a professional player. Soccer differentiates itself from all other sports in that speed, agility, balance and footwork are more crucial than apparent physique. Look at Leonel Messi, for example; the man stands 5-foot-7, and is easily one the greatest soccer players to walk the face of the earth.
6. The passion for the game is expressed unlike anything else in the world
First and foremost, passion produces excitement and color. Soccer fans care more than fans of any other sport, this produces wonderfully intense live experiences. Soccer is to be said as the world's most ultimate devotion. Christianity, with more than 2 billion believers, classifies second among the major religions of the world.
Soccer is first.
7. It's a team sport, so every person counts
Being a team sport, soccer allows for more people to connect to it. As a player, you feel as if you're part of a team and that the game needs your support to win. You can't win alone, so your team is there to help you accomplish the goal that they share with you. Yes, individuals like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Agüero make a difference, but it is the team that wins games, not just the player. Fans of the game don't just go to watch their favorite players play, they go to watch their team play.
8. Celebrations after scoring a goal are the best
What's that NFL? You give 15-yard penalties for an "excessive celebration?" That's cute. There's nothing like being able to celebrate in an appropriate manner after scoring a goal, the fans get a kick out of it, as well as your teammates.
