Modern football originated in England in the late 19th century as a game that was played between two groups of soccer enthusiasts. Since before medieval times, folk football matches were played in rural communities as part of local traditions and without any formal rules.

Two teams of fifteen players each fight for the ball which is placed at the centre of the pitch. The object of the game is not only to win, but also to score more points than the other team. A goal can be converted either by striking the ball or kicking it into the goal. A penalty kick is introduced when a team member deliberately uses the ball as an object of attack, or as a means to defend a goal. In addition to these traditional matches, there are various other international football competitions such as the World Cup and Euro tournaments, as well as the North American Soccer League.

The game has evolved over the years to the point where there are various different types of football, such as Association football, Division I soccer, and Division II soccer, and professional football. Many countries have a national soccer association whereas some countries have their own national soccer league. This type of football is referred to as Association football.