Interactive Explainer
SoccerRead the Gamefrom the Bench
Pick a formation, tap any player to learn their job. No coaching experience required.
Sport DNA
Full Field
100–130 yds × 50–100 yds
90–120 m × 45–90 m
Youth Field (U12)
~70 yds × 45 yds
8v8 standard size
Goal (Full Size)
8 yds wide × 8 ft tall
Youth: 7 ft × 21 ft (U12)
Ball Size
Size 3 · Size 4 · Size 5
U8 / U9–U12 / U13+
Players per Side
11 (adult) · 8 (U12) · 7 (U10)
4–6 for U6–U8 formats
Match Length
2 × 45 min (adult)
2 × 25–35 min (youth)
Countries Playing
211 FIFA members
Most-played sport on Earth
Founded
1863 · England
Football Association
Classic 4-3-3
The most popular formation in modern soccer. Four defenders provide a solid back line, three midfielders control the middle of the pitch, and three attackers press high to create goal-scoring opportunities.
Tap any player to see their role
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Before the Start
Essential Gear
See all 15 items
Soccer Cleats
Firm-ground (FG) cleats for natural grass. Look for a snug toe box and lightweight upper. Avoid metal studs — they're banned in most youth leagues.
Est. $25 – $80
Shin Guards
Required by every youth league. Slip-in or ankle-sleeve guards both work well. Make sure they cover from just below the knee to just above the ankle.
Est. $8 – $25
Soccer Socks
Tall tube socks that pull up over the shin guards and hold them in place. Usually sold in team colors — check with the club before buying a specific color.
Est. $8 – $15
Soccer Ball
Size 3 for U6–U8, Size 4 for U9–U12, Size 5 for U13 and up. A decent ball makes a real difference for home practice.
Est. $15 – $40
Full gear guide
8 must-haves · 15 items total · Est. $64 – $185
Parent's Cheat Sheet
What just happened?
Official Wording
A player is in an offside position if any part of the head, body or feet is in the opponents' half and closer to the goal line than both the ball and the second-last defender at the moment a teammate plays the ball.
Parent Translation
Your kid can't camp behind the last defender waiting for a pass. They have to stay level with — or behind — that defender until the ball is kicked. Sneak ahead too early and play stops. Happens constantly, totally normal.
