ELI5: how is soccer played

Imagine you and your friends are playing tag, but instead of tagging with your hands, you're using a ball and your feet. That's kind of like soccer!

Here's how it works in everyday life terms:

• Two teams: You have your team, and another team. Imagine one team is wearing red shirts, and the other is wearing blue shirts.

• The goal: Each team has a "home base," which is a big net called a goal. The idea is to kick the ball into the other team's goal. If you do, you score a point!

• Moving the ball: You can only use your feet, head, and chest to move the ball. No using your hands, unless you're the goalie! The goalie is like the guardian of the goal, and they can use their hands to stop the ball from going in.

• Running around: Everyone runs around the field trying to get the ball. You can pass the ball to your teammates, or try to dribble it (keep it close to your feet while running).

• Stealing the ball: The other team will try to steal the ball from you. You can try to tackle them (carefully!), or intercept their passes.

• No cheating! There are rules, just like in any game. If you break the rules, like tripping someone, the other team might get a free kick.

• Winning: The team with the most points (goals) at the end of the game wins!