Soccer 101 - Rules, Formations & How To Play - Sports Illustrated

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Soccer 101

Learn about the beautiful game with our Soccer 101 explainers. Including, what is offside and how each position works in a formation.

There are tons of formations in soccer.

There are tons of formations in soccer.

These famous soccer formations have helped shape the beautiful game over the years.

Latest News

Jose Mourinho is widely associated with "parking the bus."

Vini Jr. is a rabona specialist.

Barcelona are among the favorites to win the Champions League.

Liverpool were automatic qualifiers for the last 16.

Chelsea love an underdog run in this competition.

Arsenal were the standout team of the league phase.

Red cards are given out for a variety of offenses in soccer.

Goal!

Burnley were relegated from the Premier League in 2024.

Offside!

Lionel Messi and Argentina won the 2022 Qatar World Cup in one of the greatest games in soccer history

Tackling in soccer is a key skill.

The Santiago Bernabeu is one of world soccer's most famous stadiums.

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham takes a penalty kick.

Soccer players cover large distances every game.

Manchester City won a treble in 2022/23.

Sometimes wearing masks is essential

Soccer cleats are essential footwear.

FT stands for full time

Here's what midfielders do in soccer

Full-backs are key in modern soccer

Halftime is a key part of any soccer game.

Substitutions happen every game in soccer

The 2022 World Cup final went to extra time.