nogomet

Nogomet is the name used for association football in several Slavic languages, most notably Croatian and Slovenian. In English, the sport is called football or soccer. The term nogomet combines roots meaning foot and kick, reflecting the way the ball is moved.

The game is played by two teams of eleven players on a rectangular pitch with a goal at each end. The aim is to score by getting the ball into the opponent’s net, while following the Laws of the Game. Matches last 90 minutes, divided into two halves, with additional stoppage time as needed. The ball is played with any part of the body except the arms and hands; only the goalkeeper may handle the ball within the penalty area.

The sport is governed globally by FIFA, while the underlying rules are defined and maintained by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). Continental confederations organize regional competitions; in Europe this is UEFA. Major international tournaments include the FIFA World Cup and regional championships such as the UEFA European Championship.

Many countries run professional leagues and national cup competitions alongside extensive youth and amateur systems. The sport has a broad cultural footprint, with clubs, fans, media coverage, and a global transfer market linking players and teams.

Origins of modern nogomet trace to 19th‑century Britain, where clubs codified rules and established standardized play. From there it spread worldwide through volunteers, clubs, and national associations, becoming the world’s most widely played team sport.