1. The World’s Oldest Soccer Club Was Founded in 1857
Sheffield FC is recognized as the world’s oldest football club. Established in Sheffield, England, this club marked the beginning of organized football, laying down the foundation for the sport as we know it today.
2. The First Ever Live Soccer Game Broadcast Occurred in 1937
A match between Arsenal’s first and second teams was the first soccer game ever to be broadcast live. This historic broadcast opened the doors for the millions of live football broadcasts watched around the world today.
3. Soccer Balls Were Originally Made from Animal Bladders
In the early days of soccer, balls were made from inflated animal bladders, particularly pig bladders, covered in leather. It wasn’t until the 19th century that rubber bladders were used to make the balls more durable and spherical.
4. The Fastest Goal in Professional Soccer Was Scored in Just Over 2 Seconds
The record for the fastest goal in professional soccer is held by Nawaf Al-Abed, who scored just 2.4 seconds after kickoff in a Saudi Professional League match in 2009, showcasing the unpredictability and instant excitement of the game.
5. Soccer Is Known as Football Outside of the United States and Canada
While known as soccer in North America, the sport is referred to as football in most other parts of the world. This naming convention reflects the game’s roots in kicking a ball with the foot.
6. The Largest Attendance at a Soccer Match Was Over 199,000 People
The 1950 FIFA World Cup match between Brazil and Uruguay holds the record for the largest attendance, with an official attendance of 199,854 people at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, showcasing the sport’s massive appeal.
7. FIFA World Cup Balls Have Unique Designs for Each Tournament
Since the 1970 FIFA World Cup, each tournament has featured a uniquely designed official match ball, starting with the iconic Adidas Telstar. These designs have become collectible items and symbols of each World Cup’s legacy.
8. The Longest Soccer Game Ever Lasted Over 70 Hours
A charity event in 2011 set the record for the longest soccer match, lasting 70 hours and attracting players who shared shifts to keep the game going. This event highlighted the soccer community’s commitment to philanthropy.
9. Players Weren’t Required to Wear Numbers Until the 1930s
Soccer players did not wear numbered jerseys until the 1930s, when English teams first introduced them to help identify players on the field. This practice has since become a universal standard in the sport.
10. The Original World Cup Trophy Was Stolen and Never Recovered
The Jules Rimet Trophy, originally awarded to FIFA World Cup winners, was stolen in 1983 and has never been recovered. A new trophy was introduced in 1974, but the mystery of the original’s whereabouts adds a fascinating chapter to soccer history.
11. Soccer Was Played in Space for the First Time in 2014
Astronauts aboard the International Space Station played a small game of soccer in zero gravity, showcasing the universal appeal of the sport. This historic match took soccer to an entirely new frontier, quite literally out of this world.
12. The Tradition of Swapping Jerseys Originated in 1931
The practice of players swapping jerseys after a match began in 1931 during a game between France and England. It symbolizes respect and sportsmanship between competitors and has become a cherished tradition in the sport.
13. The First Soccer Game Under Floodlights Took Place in 1878
The first soccer match played under artificial lighting occurred in Sheffield, England, in 1878. This innovation allowed for matches to be played in the evening, greatly increasing the sport’s accessibility to spectators.
14. Greenland Cannot Host Official FIFA Matches Due to Its Terrain
Greenland’s harsh terrain and lack of grass fields prevent it from hosting official FIFA-sanctioned soccer matches. This unique challenge highlights the diverse conditions under which soccer is played around the world.
15. The Most Goals Scored by a Single Player in a Calendar Year Is 91
Lionel Messi set the record for the most goals scored in a calendar year in 2012, finding the net 91 times for Barcelona and Argentina. This incredible achievement underscores Messi’s place among soccer’s all-time greats.
16. The Only Player to Win Three FIFA World Cups Is Pelé
Brazilian legend Pelé is the only player in history to win three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, and 1970). His extraordinary achievement is a testament to his skill, longevity, and impact on the global stage of soccer.
17. The First Women’s World Cup Was Held in 1991
The inaugural FIFA Women’s World Cup took place in China in 1991, decades after the men’s tournament began. The event marked a significant milestone in promoting and recognizing women’s soccer on the international stage.
18. The Concept of a Penalty Shootout Was Introduced in 1970
Before 1970, drawn matches in knockout tournaments could be decided by a coin toss. The introduction of the penalty shootout provided a more skill-based and exciting method to determine a winner in tied matches.
19. The Oldest Soccer Competition Is the FA Cup
Founded in 1871, the FA Cup is the oldest soccer competition in the world. It is known for its inclusive format, allowing teams from various levels of English soccer to compete against each other.
20. The Highest Scoring Soccer Game Ended 149-0
A match in Madagascar in 2002 saw AS Adema defeat SO l’Emyrne 149-0. However, this unusual scoreline was the result of SO l’Emyrne deliberately scoring own goals in protest against refereeing decisions, highlighting the intense emotions and controversies that can arise in the sport.
21. Soccer Players Run an Average of 7 to 9.5 Miles Per Game
The distance covered by a player during a match varies by position, with midfielders often running the most. This statistic showcases the immense stamina and physical fitness required at the professional level.
22. The Record for the Longest Headed Goal Is Over 58 Meters
Jone Samuelsen of Norway holds the record for the longest headed goal, scored from over 58 meters away in 2011. This feat exemplifies the unexpected and remarkable moments that soccer can produce.
23. The First Recorded Game of “Modern” Soccer Was in 1848
Although forms of soccer date back over 2,000 years, the first recorded game under modern rules took place at Cambridge University in 1848, marking a pivotal moment in standardizing the game’s play.
24. The Most Expensive Transfer in Soccer History Cost Over €200 Million
Neymar’s transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 set the record for the highest transfer fee in soccer history, highlighting the sport’s significant economic impact and market value of elite players.
25. Soccer Is Played in Every Country in the World
Soccer’s global reach is unmatched by any other sport, with teams and organized leagues present in every country. This universal appeal makes it a powerful force for bringing people together across diverse cultures.
26. The Concept of the World Cup Was Proposed by Jules Rimet
The idea for a global soccer tournament, now known as the FIFA World Cup, was proposed by FIFA president Jules Rimet in the 1920s. The first tournament was held in 1930, and it has since become the most prestigious event in soccer.
27. The First Soccer Film Was Made in 1930
“The Great Game” is considered the first film to focus on soccer, released in 1930. This British film highlighted the sport’s cultural significance and its potential for drama both on and off the pitch.
28. An Estimated 40% of the World’s Population Watched the 2018 FIFA World Cup
The 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia was watched by an estimated 3.572 billion people, almost half of the global population, underscoring soccer’s status as the world’s most popular sport.
29. The Only Goalkeeper to Win the Ballon d’Or Is Lev Yashin
Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin, known as “The Black Spider,” is the only goalkeeper in history to win the Ballon d’Or, awarded in 1963. His exceptional skill set a new standard for goalkeepers.
30. Soccer Was Included in the Olympic Games for the First Time in 1900
Soccer was introduced as an Olympic sport at the 1900 Games in Paris. Although it was initially a demonstration sport, it has become a staple of the Olympic Games, showcasing emerging talent from around the world.
31. The First Live Broadcast of a World Cup Match Was in 1954
The 1954 FIFA World Cup in Switzerland was the first to be broadcast live on television, allowing fans around the globe to partake in the excitement of the tournament from their homes.
32. The Tradition of Exchanging Pennants Before a Match Started in the 1960s
Teams began exchanging pennants bearing their club or country’s emblem before kick-off as a gesture of goodwill and respect in the 1960s, a tradition that continues today in international and club competitions alike.
33. Brazil’s Iconic Yellow Jerseys Were Adopted After Losing the 1950 World Cup
Following their unexpected defeat in the 1950 World Cup final, Brazil held a competition to redesign their kit, resulting in the now-iconic yellow jersey. The change was intended to mark a fresh start for the national team.
34. The Youngest Professional Soccer Player Signed at 20 Months Old
Belgian club FC Racing Boxberg signed Bryce Brites at just 20 months old, making him the youngest professional soccer player ever. This unusual signing was more of a symbolic gesture, highlighting the potential clubs see in even the youngest talents.
35. The “Offside” Rule Originated in the 19th Century to Prevent Goal Hanging
The offside rule was introduced to soccer in the 19th century to stop players from remaining near the opponent’s goal (goal hanging). This rule has evolved over time to encourage fair play and team strategy.
36. The First Soccer Ball Used in a World Cup Final Was Made in Pakistan
The soccer ball used in the 1982 FIFA World Cup final, known as the “Tango España,” was manufactured in Pakistan. This marked the beginning of Pakistan’s significant role in producing soccer balls for international competitions.
37. The Oldest Soccer Stadium Still in Use Is Sandygate Road
Sandygate Road, home to Hallam FC in Sheffield, England, is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest football ground still in use today, having been opened in 1804.
38. A Soccer Match Sparked a Temporary Ceasefire During World War I
The Christmas Truce of 1914 during World War I saw a temporary ceasefire between British and German troops, who emerged from the trenches to exchange gifts and play soccer in no-man’s land.
39. The First Female Referee in a Major Men’s European Match Was in 2017
Bibiana Steinhaus became the first woman to referee a major men’s European match when she officiated a Bundesliga game in 2017, breaking significant gender barriers in the sport.
40. FIFA Was Founded in Paris in 1904 to Oversee International Competitions
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was established in Paris with the aim of organizing and governing international competitions, uniting the soccer associations of Belgium, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
41. The First International Soccer Match Was Played in 1872
The match between Scotland and England in Glasgow is considered the first official international soccer game, laying the groundwork for international competition in the sport.
42. Soccer Was Excluded from the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics
Due to low popularity in the United States and a dispute with FIFA over amateur players, soccer was not included in the 1932 Olympic Games, highlighting the sport’s varied global appeal over time.
43. The Record for Most Red Cards in a Single Game Is 36
A match in Argentina between Claypole and Victoriano Arenas in 2011 saw a referee issue 36 red cards, setting a record for the most in a single game after a brawl broke out among players, coaches, and substitutes.
44. The Term “Soccer” Originates from “Association Football”
The word “soccer” comes from an abbreviation of “association” in “association football,” with “-er” added, a common practice in Oxford slang. This distinguishes it from other forms of football, such as rugby football.
45. The First Professional Soccer League Was Established in England in 1888
The English Football League, the world’s first professional soccer league, was founded in 1888, comprising 12 clubs from the North and Midlands of England, revolutionizing the organization of the sport.
46. The Most Watched Soccer Club Match Is El Clásico
El Clásico, the match between Spanish giants Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, is one of the most watched club football matches globally, attracting millions of viewers worldwide due to the teams’ historical rivalry and star-studded lineups.
47. Soccer Was One of the First Sports to Implement Video Assistant Referee (VAR)
VAR was introduced to provide referees with video technology support for decision-making, first used in professional leagues in 2017. This marked a significant technological advancement in the sport.
48. The Only Country to Have Played in Every World Cup Is Brazil
Brazil’s national team has qualified for every FIFA World Cup since the tournament’s inception in 1930, a unique achievement that underscores the country’s profound impact and consistent excellence in international soccer.
49. The Most Decorated Club in International Soccer Is Al Ahly SC
Egypt’s Al Ahly Sporting Club is the most successful club in terms of international trophies won, including a record number of CAF Champions League titles, reflecting the club’s dominance in African soccer.
50. A Soccer Match Led to a War Between El Salvador and Honduras in 1969
The conflict known as the “Soccer War” was influenced by political tensions but ignited by violent clashes during a World Cup qualifying match between El Salvador and Honduras, demonstrating the profound impact soccer can have beyond the field.
51. The Heaviest Recorded Professional Soccer Player Was 243 pounds (110 kg)
William “Fatty” Foulke, playing for Sheffield United in the early 20th century, was known for his unusual size for a goalkeeper. His presence in goal was both imposing and unique during his time.
52. The First Soccer Film to Receive an Academy Award Nomination Was “The Damned United”
“The Damned United,” a film depicting Brian Clough’s tumultuous 44 days as manager of Leeds United in 1974, was critically acclaimed and received nominations for its portrayal of historical soccer events.
53. The Highest Altitude a Professional Soccer Match Has Been Played At Is 5,200 meters
A match in 2007 was played between two Peruvian teams at an astonishing 5,200 meters above sea level, setting the record for the highest altitude at which a professional match has been played.
54. The Most Prolific Penalty Scorer Is Rogerio Ceni
Rogerio Ceni, a goalkeeper for São Paulo, scored 131 goals in his career, mainly from penalties and free kicks, making him the highest-scoring goalkeeper in soccer history.
55. The Original Rules of Soccer Allowed for Up to 20 Players per Side
When soccer’s rules were first standardized in the 19th century, teams could have up to 20 players on the field. This number was later reduced to the 11-player format we see today.
56. The First African Team to Win a Match at the FIFA World Cup Was Morocco
Morocco made history in 1986 by becoming the first African team to win a match at the FIFA World Cup, defeating Portugal 3-1, showcasing the rising quality of soccer on the continent.
57. The Oldest Goal Scorer in World Cup History Was Roger Milla
Cameroonian striker Roger Milla was 42 years and 39 days old when he scored against Russia in the 1994 FIFA World Cup, making him the oldest goal scorer in the tournament’s history.
58. The First Soccer Player to Be Knighted Was Sir Stanley Matthews
Sir Stanley Matthews, known for his sportsmanship and incredible skill, was the first soccer player to be knighted while still an active player in 1965, highlighting his exemplary career and contribution to the sport.
59. The Inventor of the Bicycle Kick Is Disputed
While the bicycle kick is one of soccer’s most spectacular moves, its origin is contested. Some claim it was first performed in South America, while others attribute it to European players in the early 20th century.
60. The First Use of a Whistle to Control a Soccer Game Was in 1878
Before the introduction of whistles, referees relied on handkerchiefs or their voices to control games. The use of a whistle in a match in Nottingham, England, in 1878 revolutionized the way soccer games were officiated.
61. The First Soccer Game Broadcasted in Color Was the 1962 World Cup
The 1962 FIFA World Cup in Chile was the first to be broadcast in color, allowing viewers to experience the tournament’s vibrancy and enhancing the viewing experience for fans around the globe.
62. A Dog Once Found the Stolen World Cup Trophy
In 1966, a dog named Pickles found the stolen Jules Rimet Trophy wrapped in newspaper in a garden in London. The trophy had been stolen while on display prior to the World Cup in England.
63. The Fastest Red Card in Soccer History Was Issued in 2 Seconds
Lee Todd received the fastest red card in soccer history just 2 seconds into a game after exclaiming “F— me, that was loud” in response to the starting whistle, earning an immediate dismissal for foul language.
64. The First Soccer Club Founded Outside of England Was in India
The Calcutta Football Club, established in 1872, is recognized as the first soccer club founded outside England, highlighting the early spread of soccer to other parts of the world.
65. Indoor Soccer Was Invented in Uruguay in 1930
Following Uruguay’s victory in the first FIFA World Cup, indoor soccer (futsal) was invented to allow the game to be played year-round, regardless of weather conditions, fostering the sport’s growth in South America.
66. The First Recorded Women’s Soccer Match Took Place in 1895
A match in London between the teams of North and South London is considered the first recorded women’s soccer game, marking an early milestone in the development of women’s soccer.
67. The Most Goals Scored in a Single Soccer Game by One Player Is 16
Stephan Stanis, a French player, holds the record for most goals scored in a single match, having netted 16 goals for his team Racing Club de Lens in December 1942.
68. Soccer Balls Were First Used in Olympic Basketball
The first Olympic basketball games in 1936 were played using soccer balls, as the sport of basketball was still developing its own equipment standards.
69. The First National Team to Play Against FIFA Members Was the Austrian Wunderteam
In the early 1930s, the Austrian national team, known as the Wunderteam, became the first to compete against FIFA member countries, demonstrating early international soccer exchanges and competition.
70. The Idea for Penalty Shootouts Came from a German Schoolteacher
The concept of using penalty shootouts to decide tied matches was proposed by Karl Wald, a German schoolteacher, in the 1970s. His idea was later adopted by FIFA as an official tie-breaker method.
71. The First African Country to Qualify for a World Cup Was Egypt in 1934
Egypt made history as the first African nation to participate in the FIFA World Cup, taking part in the 1934 tournament held in Italy, marking a significant milestone for African soccer on the world stage.
72. The First Official Soccer Match Played at Night Took Place in 1878
Under the illumination of floodlights, two teams in Sheffield, England, contested the first official night soccer match in 1878, a pioneering event that introduced the concept of playing sports under artificial light.
73. Soccer Balls Used to Be Delivered to the Field by Pigeons
In the early 20th century, especially in some matches in Belgium, soccer balls were sometimes delivered to the center of the pitch by trained pigeons, a practice that added a unique flair to the game’s opening moments.
74. The First Soccer Team to Travel by Air Was Dundee United
In 1925, Dundee United from Scotland became the first soccer team to travel by airplane, flying to a match against Arsenal in London, a novel approach to away-game transportation at the time.
75. The Origin of the Word “Soccer” Is British, Not American
Contrary to popular belief, the term “soccer” is not an American invention but originates from Britain. It derived from an abbreviation of “association football,” with “soc” from “association” and the “-er” suffix added.
76. The Maximum Number of Substitutes Allowed in a World Cup Game Was Once Two
Initially, FIFA World Cup rules permitted only two substitutes per match, a number that has since increased to allow teams more strategic flexibility and injury management during games.
77. The Longest Unbeaten Run in Professional Soccer Is 155 Games
Steaua Bucharest of Romania holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in professional soccer, going 155 games without a loss from 1986 to 1989, a testament to the team’s dominance in that era.
78. The First Live Soccer Broadcast Was Accompanied by a Hand-Drawn Pitch
For the first live soccer radio broadcast in 1927, listeners were provided with a grid of the pitch in the Radio Times. The announcer called out the action using this grid, helping listeners visualize the game.
79. The Only Player to Ever Score in Two Separate World Cup Finals Is Vavá
Brazilian striker Vavá achieved the unique feat of scoring in two different World Cup finals, finding the net in both the 1958 and 1962 tournaments, an achievement that underscores his clutch performance in crucial matches.
80. The Tradition of Captains Wearing Armbands Originated in the 1960s
The practice of soccer team captains wearing armbands was introduced in the 1960s as a way to visually distinguish the leader of the team on the field, enhancing the captain’s authority and visibility to referees and players.
81. The First Soccer Match Broadcasted Via Satellite Was the 1966 World Cup Final
The 1966 FIFA World Cup final between England and West Germany was the first soccer match to be broadcast live via satellite, significantly expanding the global audience for major sporting events.
82. The Oldest Active Soccer Player Is Isaak Hayik
At the age of 73, Israeli Isaak Hayik set the Guinness World Record as the oldest active soccer player when he played as a goalkeeper in an official match for Ironi Or Yehuda in 2019, showcasing the timeless appeal and inclusivity of the sport.
83. The Most Successful Soccer Club in the 20th Century Was Real Madrid
FIFA awarded Real Madrid the title of the greatest football club of the 20th century, recognizing their numerous domestic, European, and international titles, and solidifying their status as one of the most prestigious clubs in the world.
84. The First Use of the Yellow and Red Card System Was in the 1970 World Cup
The system of using yellow cards to warn players and red cards to expel them from the game was first introduced at the FIFA World Cup in Mexico in 1970, revolutionizing the way infractions were communicated in soccer.
85. The First Soccer Video Game Was “Pele’s Soccer” on Atari 2600
Released in the late 1970s, “Pele’s Soccer” for the Atari 2600 was one of the first video games to simulate soccer, allowing players to control a team and attempt to score goals, paving the way for the future of sports gaming.
86. The Record for Most Consecutive Clean Sheets Is 14 Games
The Belgian club Sint-Truidense V.V. set the record for the most consecutive clean sheets (no goals conceded) in professional soccer, with 14 games during the 1971-72 season, a testament to extraordinary defensive organization and goalkeeping.
87. The First Female FIFA Referee Was Appointed in 1995
Lim Kee Chong of Mauritius became FIFA’s first female referee in 1995, breaking gender barriers in the sport and paving the way for greater inclusion and recognition of female officials in top-tier soccer.
88. The First Soccer Club to Install Floodlights Was Thames Ironworks FC
Thames Ironworks FC, the club that would eventually become West Ham United, was one of the first to install floodlights at their ground in the late 19th century, enabling evening matches and training sessions.
89. The First Own Goal in World Cup History Was Scored in 1930
The first own goal in FIFA World Cup history was scored by Manuel Rosas of Mexico during the 1930 tournament, an unfortunate moment that has since been echoed by players in the decades following.
90. The Concept of a Transfer Fee Was Introduced in 1893
The transfer fee system was established in English football in 1893 when Willie Groves moved from West Bromwich Albion to Aston Villa for £100, setting the precedent for the transfer market that has become a central aspect of the sport’s economy.
91. The First Official International Tournament Was the British Home Championship
Starting in 1884, the British Home Championship involved the United Kingdom’s four national teams: England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. It was the first international soccer tournament, predating the World Cup by decades.
92. The Most Goals Scored by a Goalkeeper in a Career Is Over 100
Brazilian goalkeeper Rogério Ceni scored over 100 goals during his career, primarily from penalties and free kicks, making him the highest-scoring goalkeeper in the history of soccer.
93. The First Football Association Was Formed in England in 1863
The English Football Association, the oldest football association in the world, was established in 1863. It played a pivotal role in standardizing the rules of soccer, shaping the game into the form we recognize today.
94. The First International Match Played by Teams Outside of Britain Was in 1902
Argentina and Uruguay played what is considered the first international match outside of Britain in 1902, laying the groundwork for the development of soccer in South America.
95. Lionel Messi holds the Record for Most Individual Ballon d’Or Awards
Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d’Or award, given annually to the world’s best soccer player, a record number of times, cementing his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
96. The First Country to Host the World Cup Twice Was Mexico
Mexico became the first country to host the FIFA World Cup twice, in 1970 and 1986. These tournaments are remembered for showcasing some of the greatest moments in World Cup history.
97. The Youngest Player to Play in a World Cup Match Was Norman Whiteside
Northern Ireland’s Norman Whiteside is the youngest player to appear in a FIFA World Cup match, making his debut in 1982 at the age of 17 years and 41 days.
98. The First Soccer Match Broadcast on Television Was in 1937
A friendly match between Arsenal and Arsenal Reserves on October 16, 1937, was the first soccer match ever televised, marking the beginning of soccer broadcasts and its evolution into a major global spectacle.
99. The First Club to Win the European Cup (Now Champions League) Was Real Madrid
Real Madrid won the inaugural European Cup in 1956 and went on to win the first five editions of the tournament, establishing themselves as Europe’s premier soccer club during that era.
100. The Idea of the Golden Goal Was Introduced in the 1990s but Later Abolished
The golden goal rule, where the first team to score in extra time wins the match, was introduced in the 1990s to encourage attacking play in knockout matches. However, it was abolished in 2004 due to criticisms that it encouraged overly cautious play.
