History of the origin of football:
Games similar to football existed in ancient civilisations. For example:
1. Ancient China played “Ju Zhu” about 2,000 years ago, where participants had to hit a ball into a net using only their feet.
2. In ancient Rome, the game “harpastum” was popular, which was a team game with a ball that resembled modern football and rugby.
3. In medieval England, varieties of ball games were played that often involved physical violence.
However, it is in nineteenth century England that the history of modern football begins. Different schools and clubs had their own rules and there was a need to harmonise them. In 1863, the Football Association of England was founded and established standardised rules for the game, many of which are still in force today.
Modern football:
Over time, football became popularised around the world. In 1904, the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) was founded, which organised the first World Cup in 1930.
Modern football has undergone many changes, especially in terms of tactics, training, technology and media. For example:
1. Tactics: Modern teams place great importance on tactics, analysing the opponent and game strategy.
2. Training: Training methods have become more scientific, emphasising physical conditioning, nutrition and recovery.
3. Technology: Various technological innovations are used, such as VAR (video assistant referee) to make decisions in controversial moments of the game.
4. Media: Football has become a global spectacle with multi-billion dollar television rights contracts, which has greatly increased the commercialisation of the sport.
Football continues to evolve and adapt to new times, remaining one of the most popular and loved sports in the world.