Soccer is sport played around the world. Many people are new to the sport as it gains popularity and they may not understand the rules. Some parts of soccer can be confusing, so learning the basics can really help anyone who is trying to understand what is going on. The following is a short tutorial on the basics of soccer.

The objective of soccer is to score more goals than the opposing team. Each team consists of eleven players. Players can score by moving the ball into the goal net. Each game lasts 90 minutes and is divided into 45 minute halves. The game is regulated by a referee and two linesmen who determine fouls and other penalties. This is the basic set up of the game.

The following list explains some important points in a soccer game.

1. Players can not use their hands to touch the ball. The exceptions are special moves and the goalie.
2. Fouls are called when players get too rough on the field or break other rules.
3. A direct kick is rewarded after a foul to the opposing team and can be kicked directly in the goal. An indirect kick must be touched by another player before it can be a goal.
4. A penalty kick is a kick from 12 yards in front of the goal. All other players must stay away until the ball is kicked.
5.The two-touch rule states that a player can not touch the ball twice in a row.
6. Yellow and red cards are handed out as, what other sports call, a personal foul. They are against a single player. Yellow cards are warnings and red cards get you removed from the game.
7. Offsides is described by the FIFA soccer rules as A player is in an offside position if: he is nearer to his opponents goal line than both the ball and the second last opponent. This is difficult to understand and explain, so if you need further clarification it is best to watch it demonstrated on the field.

These basic rules and guidelines of soccer should help the layperson to understand the idea of what is going on at the soccer field.