What are soccer games called?
Mar, 3 2023
No matter where you go in the world, it's likely that you'll find people playing a game of soccer. Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world and is played in almost every country. But did you know that soccer games have different names in different parts of the world? Here, we'll explore some of the different names for soccer games around the world.
Football
The most common name for soccer games around the world is "football." This name is used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. In the United States, it's also commonly referred to as "soccer" to differentiate it from American football.
Futbol
In Spanish-speaking countries, soccer is usually referred to as "futbol." This term is also used in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. For example, in Mexico, it's called "futbol mexicano" and in Brazil, it's called "futebol."
Calcio
In Italy, soccer is usually referred to as "calcio." This term is also used in parts of Eastern Europe, including Romania and Bulgaria. The term is derived from the Latin word for "kick," which is "calcitare."
Joga Bonito
In Portugal, soccer is referred to as "joga bonito," which translates to "beautiful game." This term is used to describe the skill and artistry that is involved in playing soccer.
Fußball
In Germany, soccer is called "Fußball," which translates to "football." This term is also used in parts of Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
No matter what it's called, soccer is a beloved game around the world. As you can see, the different names for soccer games vary by region, but the game itself is universally enjoyed.
Soccer games have always had their own special nomenclature that can leave newcomers scratching their heads. Fortunately, a little research can help unravel the mysteries of soccer game terms.
Let's start with the basics. Soccer games are typically referred to as either a match or a game. A match is used when referring to a competitive game between two teams, while a game is typically used when referring to a practice session or a friendly game.
The most common type of match is a league match. This is a match between two teams that are both part of the same league. These matches are typically played in a round-robin format, with each team playing each other team in their league once.
Cup matches refer to competitive matches between two teams that are part of different leagues or different countries. Cup matches may be played as a single elimination tournament or as a round-robin tournament.
There are also friendly matches, which are non-competitive games between two teams. These matches may be organized for the purpose of raising money for charity or for some other purpose.
Finally, there are international matches, which are competitive games between teams from different countries. These matches are typically organized by governing bodies such as FIFA and are played according to the rules and regulations set by those organizations.
So, now that you know the basics of soccer game nomenclature, you can start talking soccer like a pro!
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, and its terminology can be confusing for the uninitiated. Knowing the different terms used to describe soccer games can help you understand the nuances of the game and make it easier to follow along. Here's a brief guide to understanding the different terms used to describe soccer games.
Friendlies
Friendlies are soccer games that are not part of a tournament or championship. They are usually used for practice or for exhibition matches that don't have any consequence for either team. Friendlies are typically played between two teams from different countries in order to give the teams an opportunity to practice against different opponents.
League Games
League games are ones that are part of a league or tournament. This can be a domestic or international league, or a tournament such as the World Cup. League games are typically played between teams from the same country and are used to determine a champion or winner. The points system used in league games is different than that used in friendlies.
Cup Games
Cup games are also known as knockout games or single-elimination tournaments. They are most commonly used in international tournaments, such as the World Cup. In cup games, teams are eliminated from the tournament after losing one game. The remaining teams compete until only one is left standing, which is the winner of the tournament.
Derby Games
Derby games are matches between two teams from the same city or region. These games are usually highly competitive and draw large crowds. Derby games are especially common in Europe, where rivalries between cities and regions can be intense.
International Games
International games are matches between teams from different countries. These games are often used to showcase different countries and their styles of play. International games can be friendlies, league games, or cup games.
Now that you know the different terms used to describe soccer games, you can join in on conversations with more confidence. Whether it's a friendly, league game, cup game, derby, or international game, you'll be well-versed in the terminology and able to follow along with ease.
Soccer games, like all types of sports, come with their own set of terminology and naming conventions. Knowing the various terms and conventions can help you better understand the game and make the most of your soccer-viewing experience. Here is an overview of the different types of soccer games, as well as their associated names and meanings.
Friendlies
A friendly is an informal soccer game between two teams. The match is usually arranged by one team, who then invites the other team to join in. Friendlies are typically used to give teams a chance to practice and hone their skills, as well as to help develop a friendly relationship between the two teams. Friendlies are usually not competitive and are not part of any official tournament or competition.
Competitive Matches
Competitive matches are soccer games that are part of an official tournament or competition. These games are typically played with a winner and loser, and the result of the game can affect the standings in the tournament or competition. Some of the more popular competitive matches include the World Cup, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, and the various domestic leagues around the world.
Cups and Tournaments
Cups and tournaments are soccer competitions that involve teams from different countries or regions competing against each other. These competitions usually last for a certain amount of time, such as a season or a year, and involve several rounds of play. Cups and tournaments typically have a final match between the two best teams in the competition, with the winner being declared the champion of the tournament or cup.
International Matches
International matches are soccer games that involve two teams from different countries. These games are typically part of a larger tournament or competition and the result of the game can affect the standings in the tournament or competition. International matches are usually competitive and are often seen as a way for countries to showcase their best players and teams.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of soccer games and their associated names and meanings, you can better appreciate the sport and the many nuances that go along with it. Whether you are a fan of the game or a player, understanding the various types of soccer games can help you better appreciate the sport and enjoy it to its fullest.