Unlocking the Secrets of the Field, Powering Your Passion for Soccer
At ADIRI, we live and breathe soccer. We know the passion for this sport goes way beyond watching a match—it means breaking down every play, strategy, and rule that makes soccer the “beautiful game.” Whether you’re an up-and-coming talent or a lifelong fan who wants to dig deeper, questions always come up. So here are the answers to the most common soccer doubts along with tips to get the edge—and the right ADIRI gear—to own your game, on and off the pitch.
1. What is soccer and what’s its main purpose?
Soccer is a team sport played with a ball on a field, pitting two teams against each other with one goal: score by getting the ball into the rival’s net. The ultimate aim? Outscoring the other team by the end of regulation. The sport is winning over millions thanks to its strategy, technical skill, teamwork, and serious mental focus.
2. How long does a soccer match last, and what’s added time?
A standard match is 90 minutes—two halves of 45 minutes with a halftime break. Sometimes, there’s “added time” (aka injury or stoppage time) to make up for delays like subs, stoppages, or injuries. For tournaments, “extra time” applies if there’s a draw, typically two extra periods, plus penalty kicks if needed.
3. What is offside and how is it called?
Offside is one of the trickiest rules in soccer. A player is offside if:
- They’re in the opponent’s half of the field.
- They’re closer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second-to-last defender.
- They’re involved in active play (receiving the ball, interfering with play/opponent, or gaining an advantage).
The ref calls offside at the moment your teammate passes you the ball, not as you receive it.
4. What are the common fouls and what types of cards are used?
Fouls include things like:
- Reckless or dangerous play (high kicks, rough tackles, pushing, tripping)
- Handling the ball intentionally (except for the goalkeeper inside the box)
- Unsportsmanlike conduct
Cards are the ref’s tool for discipline:
- Yellow Card: Warning for bad tackles, repeated fouls, dissent.
- Red Card: Ejection for serious foul play, violent conduct, or two yellows in one match.
Teams play shorthanded after a red card, meaning a real tactical disadvantage!
5. What’s a penalty kick and when is it awarded?
Penalty kicks get awarded after a foul that stops a clear scoring chance inside your own penalty area. It’s a one-on-one, shooter vs. keeper, from the penalty spot. The keeper must stay on the goal line until the ball’s kicked.
6. How do you train physically for high-performance soccer?
Peak soccer demands a mix of:
- Cardio Endurance: For lasting the whole 90 minutes (running, interval training, HIIT).
- Speed & Power: Sprints, jumps, and plyometric drills for explosive actions.
- Strength: Weight training for tackles, shots, and physical contests.
- Flexibility & Core: For injury prevention, mobility, and stability.
ADIRI’s gear helps support your body for every challenge on the pitch.
7. What soccer gear is essential for playing or training?
Whichever level you play at, gear essentials include:
- Soccer Ball: Chosen for age and league standards.
- Cleats (Boots): Matched to the field type (grass, turf, artificial).
- Shin Guards: Mandatory for protection.
- Socks: To keep guards in place.
- Jersey & Shorts: Look for lightweight, breathable, and flexible ADIRI gear.
8. What is VAR and how does it work in soccer?
VAR (Video Assistant Referee) is modern tech used to aid referees making tough calls in key situations:
- Goals: Confirming if a goal stands.
- Penalties: Verifying fouls.
- Red Cards: Checking violent or mistaken send-offs.
- Offside: Helping spot offside calls in crunch moments.
Refs get video review and communication for clearer decisions, making the game fairer!
9. How does ADIRI help me boost my soccer performance?
ADIRI is your top partner to chase excellence on the soccer field. Our high-performance gear is built to meet every player’s needs:
- Compression Clothing: Shirts, shorts, socks, sleeves, etc. to boost circulation and recovery.
- Superlight Jerseys & Shorts: Keeps you fresh and quick with advanced, sweat-wicking fabrics.
- Cutting-Edge Design: Every ADIRI product is made for all playing styles, letting you run, jump, and sprint without restrictions.
- Reliable Accessories: Shin guards and socks deliver the comfort and protection needed to keep you focused on the game.
With ADIRI, take your skills up a notch—get the kit, hit the field, and make the difference!