10 less known facts about Football.

 

Football, also known as soccer in some parts of the world, is one of the most popular sports globally. It has a rich history and culture that many fans may not be aware of. In this blog post, we will explore some lesser-known facts about football that will surprise you.

1. Football was played in ancient China

While the modern version of football originated in England, the game has been played in different forms for centuries. One of the earliest recorded instances of football being played was in ancient China during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). The game was called cuju, and it involved players kicking a leather ball into a small net.

2. The world's first football club was established in England in 1857

Sheffield Football Club, founded in 1857, is recognized as the world's first football club. The club initially played a version of the game that allowed players to handle the ball. However, they later adopted the standard rules of the game, which prohibited the use of hands and arms.

3. The first international football match was played in 1872

The first international football match was played on November 30, 1872, between Scotland and England. The match took place at Hamilton Crescent in Glasgow, Scotland, and ended in a 0-0 draw.

4. The fastest goal in football history was scored in 1.8 seconds

The fastest goal in football history was scored by Hakan Şükür of Turkey just 11 seconds into a World Cup match against South Korea in 2002. The record for the fastest goal was later broken when Christian Benteke of Belgium scored in 1.8 seconds in a 2016 match against Gibraltar.

5. The world's oldest football tournament is the FA Cup

The Football Association Challenge Cup, commonly known as the FA Cup, is the oldest football tournament in the world. It was first contested in the 1871-1872 season and has been played every year since, except for during World War I and World War II.

6. Football was banned in England in 1365

Football was banned in England in 1365 by King Edward III, who believed that the game distracted people from practicing archery, which was essential for national defense. The ban was lifted during the reign of King James I in the 17th century.

7. The first football match to be broadcasted on television was in 1937

The first football match to be broadcasted on television was a friendly match between Arsenal and Arsenal Reserves in 1937. The match was broadcasted by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).

8. The largest margin of victory in an international football match was 31-0

The largest margin of victory in an international football match was recorded in 2001 when Australia beat American Samoa 31-0 in a World Cup qualifier.

9. The first football player to be transferred for a fee was Willie Groves

Willie Groves became the first football player to be transferred for a fee when he moved from West Bromwich Albion to Aston Villa for £100 in 1893. The transfer fee system has since become a standard practice in football.

10. Football has been played on all seven continents

Football is the only sport that has been played on all seven continents, including Antarctica. In 1969, a group of researchers stationed in Antarctica played a game of football on the continent, making it the only recorded instance of the sport being played on the continent.

In conclusion, football has a rich history and culture that many fans may not be aware of. From its ancient origins in China to its status as the world's most popular sport, football has evolved and thrived over the centuries. These lesser-known facts highlight the unique and fascinating aspects