The Beautiful Game: A Brief History of Football

From Ancient Kicks to Global Glory

Football, or soccer as it’s called in some parts of the world, is more than just a sport – it’s a global language. Loved and played by millions across continents, football has a unique way of bringing people together. But where did it all begin?

The Early Days

While many ancient civilizations played ball games, the earliest known version of football dates back to 2nd and 3rd century BC China. Called Cuju, it involved kicking a leather ball into a net without using hands. Meanwhile, similar versions appeared in Ancient Greece, Rome, and even among Indigenous cultures worldwide.

The version of the game we know today began to take shape in 19th century England, where schools and clubs played a variety of informal ball games. The lack of standard rules caused chaos, until 1863, when the Football Association (The FA) was founded in London, setting the first official rules of football.

The Global Game

From England, football quickly spread across Europe and to South America, carried by British workers, sailors, and students. Countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Italy embraced it with passion. The first FIFA World Cup was held in 1930, and football became not only a pastime but a part of national identity for many.

Today, the sport is followed by over 5 billion fans worldwide, with countless domestic leagues, international competitions, and grassroots programs growing each year.

Football’s Cultural Impact

Football is more than what happens on the pitch. It influences politics, inspires music and film, drives fashion, and sparks fierce loyalty. Clubs are family. Shirts are statements. Matches are memories.

Here at FC Corner, football isn’t just a theme – it’s in our DNA. We honour the game’s past every time we handpick a vintage shirt or drop a new classic.