TOP 5 most scandalous games in football history

Exciting dynamics, fast-paced combinations and constantly changing game situations – that’s what futsal is all about. This sport is played on a compact pitch and requires players to have not only speed and endurance, but also the highest level of technique, passing accuracy and quick decision-making. It is important to understand that futsal is not simply ‘indoor football’, but a unique sport with its own clear rules, special features of playing on hard surfaces and tactical nuances that make it incredibly spectacular.

Origins: from the indoor arena to the world stage

Futsal originated in the first half of the 20th century, when teams began to use sports halls due to a lack of full-size playing fields. There, the basic principles of the game were established: limited space, increased intensity of play, strict ball control. This version later established itself as a separate discipline – mini football, with an emphasis on technical components and quick changes of play.

The development of an official structure was initiated by an association that was supported at the international level. Over time, the discipline was codified under the auspices of FIFA Futsal, with each rule change accompanied by a level of detail aimed at balance and pace. The first tournaments formed the basis for the modern format, which values not only speed but also precision.

Differences from classic football: What is futsal?

The answer to the question of what futsal is and how it differs from football involves a number of parameters. The most important of these is the size of the pitch. In futsal, it is no longer than 42 metres and no wider than 25 metres, which is almost half the size of a standard stadium. The number of players is another important point. In futsal, there are 5 players on the field, including the goalkeeper, as opposed to 11 in the classic game.

There is no contact with the boards, the playing field is marked with lines, the balls are smaller and have a dampened bounce, the pace is higher and the duration of attacks is shorter. Shots on goal are made with the hands, there is a penalty area and foul limits. Futsal focuses on short passes, tight pressing and ball control, which is completely different from the expansive playing system of big football.

Ball and equipment

The futsal ball differs from the standard ball: its circumference is approximately 62–64 cm, and its weight is 400–440 grams. The surface is less elastic, and the bounce is limited to 65 cm when dropped from a height of 2 metres. This reduces random bounces and makes control predictable. Players wear special trainers with smooth soles without studs. All equipment must meet safety requirements and include shin guards, socks, a numbered jersey, shorts and sports socks.

Organisation of the game: time, composition, structure

The game consists of two halves of 20 minutes of pure playing time each. During interruptions, the stopwatch stops the break. A break of up to 15 minutes is provided between halves. In the event of a draw, two extra times of 5 minutes each are possible, followed by a penalty shootout.

Substitutions and composition

Each team has up to 14 players in its line-up. Five players, including the goalkeeper, are on the field at the same time. Substitutions can be made without restriction during the game, but the substitution and entry zones must be observed. Violation of this rule will result in a warning or a technical foul. The substitution system allows the game to be adapted to the pace, to use rotations and to give futsal games maximum dynamism. Fatigue sets in more quickly and the pace changes abruptly, so skilful use of the substitutes’ bench determines the outcome of the game.

Rules of the game: What beginners should learn

The answer to the question of what futsal is and how to play it involves knowing clear rules. The game starts from the centre circle. After a goal is scored, the game also continues from this point. If the ball crosses the sideline, it is brought back into play by the opponent with their foot. Violations are strictly punished: the accumulated fouls influence the course of the game. After a team’s fifth foul, the opponent is awarded a free kick from 10 metres without a wall.

Players are required to keep their distance in all set pieces, control their hand movements and avoid tackles with outstretched legs. The referees award cards – yellow for serious fouls, red for sending offs. After the last offence, the player leaves the field and the team remains outnumbered for 2 minutes or until the next goal is scored.

The referee also controls the goalkeeper’s possession time and limits it to 4 seconds. Receiving the ball again without touching a teammate is a violation of the rule. In the event of a violation, play will continue from the spot where the action took place, except in special situations – disputed ball, penalty kick, delayed foul.

Roles and tasks on the pitch: player interaction

The futsal game model requires an understanding of each player’s role. The centre forward organises the attacks and sets the pace. The wingers pull the opponent’s defence apart, using dribbling and quick passes. The goalkeeper is responsible for defence, acts closer to his goal and participates in the early stages of the attack. The goalkeeper occupies a special position: in addition to his main task of protecting the goal, he often participates in the start of attacks, plays precise passes and, if necessary, joins the play as the fifth field player.

Tactical tricks: What are strategies in futsal?

The futsal game model is not only characterised by technical skill, but also by playing systems that ensure effective use of space and time.

Tactics:

1. Diamond – classic 1-2-1 formation. Provides width and control in the centre and creates opportunities for quick vertical passes.
2. Square – even distribution of players at the corners of an imaginary square. Increases pass density, but requires accuracy and constant movement.
3. 3–1 – one defensive defender and three attackers. Used when dominating and playing aggressively.
4. 4–0 – high mobility of all players, constant position changes. Suitable for teams with good preparation and high coordination.
5. Power play – the goalkeeper is used as a fifth player in attack when the team is behind. Used to apply pressure at the end.

The attacking system is selected depending on the opponent’s playing style, the condition of the pitch and the physical condition of the team. The successful implementation of the strategy depends on coordination, speed of thought and the ability to work at a high tempo.

Time-outs, referees and organisation of the game

When answering the question of what futsal is, one should also mention the game management. Each team has the right to request a time-out in each half. The duration is exactly 60 seconds. The team management uses this break to adjust tactics, recover and change plays. Permission for the break is requested via the match secretary, and the referee gives the signal at the first convenient moment.

The game is officiated by two referees: the main referee and the second referee, who is located on the opposite side of the pitch. In addition, a timekeeper and a secretary are involved. The main referee records fouls, tracks player substitutions, distributes cards and monitors the behaviour of the coaches and the technical zone. The second referee assists with monitoring from the other side, supplements decisions and works with the timekeeper. There is no video replay system at the grassroots level, so each situation is assessed based on the current situation.

Why choose futsal: advantages of this sport

Futsal has become the sport of choice for those looking for a high level of action and quick decisions. The density of events per square metre far exceeds that of other ball sports. Due to the size of the pitch, players come into contact more often, and attacking situations follow each other within seconds.

This format trains responsiveness, improves coordination and develops peripheral vision. Therefore, children’s and youth academies often use futsal as a basis for training future players for big football. The transition from the hall to the grass offers advantages in terms of ball control, working in limited space and understanding combinations.

Teams of all age groups use futsal as their main or additional discipline. Sports schools include it in their compulsory programme. Adult athletes appreciate the compactness of the season, the intensity of the games, the low risk of injury and the equal opportunities regardless of size or strength.

The game of the future in the present

The new format has created a unique ecosystem that combines tactical depth, technical skill and physical exertion in one format. Understanding futsal means not only learning the rules, but also grasping the dynamics, feeling the rhythm and learning to act under conditions that require quick decisions.

Who has soared to the top of football Olympus? The most successful footballers – people who have been able to change the game, inspire generations, and make the sport even more beautiful and exciting. Whose names will forever remain in history? Let’s tell you in our material.

Lionel Messi – mastery in every movement

Lionel Messi was born in 1987 in Rosario, Argentina. Since childhood, he was singled out for his extraordinary football abilities, but because of a problem with growth hormone, his physical development has slowed down a lot. ‘Barcelona’ offered to pay for the treatment and moved the boy to Spain. Thus began the journey of one of the great footballers of our time. Messi quickly broke into the youth team and soon made his debut in the main team, and the first records of the footballer did not wait: he became the youngest player who scored for the club in La Liga.

Legendary achievements and records

Lionel Messi became the owner of a record number of Golden Balls – eight as of 2023, and also set an absolute record for the number of goals in a calendar year (91). Messi rewrote La Liga history by becoming the all-time top scorer and the league’s top assist man. His prowess in the Champions League has also given the world some unforgettable moments, including four goals against Arsenal in a single match in 2010.

Messi and his impact on football

Messi’s ability to hold the ball up, outmanoeuvre opponents and be part of the team makes many only dream of similar skills. Young athletes are keen to adopt his incredible technique and a philosophy that emphasises teamwork above all else. Messi changed the very tactics and perception of the sport: the “false nine”, where he often operated, became a new fulcrum in attacks, something that captured the attention of the tactical geniuses of the day.

Cristiano Ronaldo – the epitome of perseverance and success

Cristiano Ronaldo was born on the island of Madeira in 1985. The path to the top was difficult and required incredible efficiency. At the age of 12, he moved to Lisbon to join Sporting’s academy, where he became a star of the youth squad. The athlete soon moved to Manchester United, where his international career began. Ronaldo is characterised by his dedication and incredible work capacity, which brought him to the elite of the world stage. It is these qualities that make him one of the most successful footballers.

Records and Golden Balls

Ronaldo is the Champions League record holder for goals and assists, as well as the first to win the Golden Ball with three different clubs. As a member of Real Madrid, he scored in finals and semi-finals, dragging the team when needed. In the Portuguese national team, Ronaldo became a true leader and led the players to victory at Euro 2016, which was an achievement at the world level.

Impact on society and sport

Ronaldo is known not only for his footballing exploits, but also for his work off the pitch. He is actively involved in charity projects and helps children around the world as a goodwill ambassador. His openness and activism off the pitch has made him one of the most popular and recognisable people in the world. He inspires millions of people with his personal qualities, making him a significant figure in the list of the best footballers of all time.

Diego Maradona is the god of football and his legacy

Diego Maradona was born in Buenos Aires in 1960 and grew up in a poor neighbourhood where his talent was immediately recognised. He made his debut for Argentinos Juniors at the age of 15 before moving to Boca Juniors, where he became a national hero. His performance at the 1986 World Cup made history: Many associate the term football legend with Maradona.

‘Hand of God’ and other great moments

The match against England in 1986 became one of the most famous episodes in history. The goal with the ‘hand of God’ and another, considered the greatest goal of the century, came to symbolise the skill and cleverness of the sportsman. Maradona proved that individual style and passion can lead a team to victory. His influence is a lesson in creativity and perseverance for all generations. The most successful footballer in the world is not always defined by the number of trophies: Sometimes it’s a contribution to the culture and spirit of the discipline, and Maradona is a prime example.

Pelé – The king of football and his greatness

Pelé, real name Edson Arantes do Nascimento, was born in Tres Corazones, Brazil, in 1940. He developed a passion for football at a young age and played barefoot with homemade balls. He made his debut for Santos at the age of 15 and became an almost instant star thanks to his incredible technique and scoring instincts. At the age of 17, Pelé led the Brazilian national team to its first World Cup victory in 1958 and became the youngest world champion in history – a true icon among successful footballers.

World records and titles

Pelé won the World Cup three times (1958, 1962, 1970) – a record that has never been equalled. His ability to score goals from different positions, hold the ball up and work as part of a team made him the ideal player of his time. In a career that spanned both official and unofficial matches, he scored over 1,000 goals and his achievements are unrivalled by many modern footballers.

Influence on the game and popularisation of football

Pele’s game made football truly international. The athlete became a symbol of success for the whole of Brazil and inspired millions of children who played in the streets of the favelas. Through his contribution to the popularisation of football, Pelé became a cultural phenomenon.

Zinedine Zidane – French elegance on the football pitch

Zinedine Zidane was born in Marseille in 1972 to Algerian parents. His journey began by playing on the streets of the city, where he demonstrated his exceptional talent and technique. He began his career at Cannes, then moved to Bordeaux and was soon called up to the French national team. Right from the start of his career, Zidane became one of the most successful footballers in France.

Important successes and major victories

Zidane gave the world unforgettable moments, such as two headers in the 1998 World Cup final, with which he led France to a historic victory. He also won the Champions League with Real Madrid and became one of the Galactic’s most important players. His technique, skilful ball possession and elegant passes are still remembered by fans today.

Zidane’s legacy and coaching career

After his playing career, Zidane became a coach and enjoyed success with Real Madrid, winning three consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018. His coaching style is as elegant as his play on the pitch: he emphasised teamwork and individual player development. His legacy lives on in every young athlete who dreams of great things, and his achievements continue to inspire and confirm his status as the most successful footballer in French sporting history.

The most successful footballers: Conclusion

The most successful footballers have not only achieved incredible success – they have changed the game forever and made it more entertaining and interesting for billions of people around the world. Their influence extends far beyond the pitch and the stands, inspiring future generations to do great things. Watch their great goals and moments and get a flavour of what real football is all about.