What Countries Call Football Soccer?

The stark choice between “football” and “soccer” has ignited debates and reflections on linguistic preferences across nations. But despite the term’s unpopularity, you’ll be surprised by how many countries call football “soccer.”

The countries include:

1. United States
2. Canada
3. Australia (alongside “football”)
4. Japan
5. South Korea
6. New Zealand
7. Philippines
8. South Africa (to some extent)

These countries primarily use “soccer” to distinguish it from other forms of football.

This article aims to unravel the origins, implications, and cultural underpinnings of this linguistic divergence.

Origins of Football and Soccer

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Ye Ancient Game of Football, Teams from Oxford and Cambridge Universities played a different kind of football in an end of term soccer ‘rag’ at Cambridge today. Officially called ‘Foot the Ball’ the game employed three balls, and the players wore old time gear and top hats. The trophy for the winners was a barrel of beer.

The term “football” finds its genesis in diverse ball games played across ancient civilizations, where the objective was to maneuver a ball into a designated area. Variations of these games emerged in different cultures, shaping the foundations of modern football.

“Soccer”, on the other hand, emerged as an abbreviation of “association football”. This label differentiated the sport from other forms of football, such as rugby football. The term gained prominence in the 19th century and took root primarily in countries where alternative codes of football prevailed.

These early origins laid the groundwork for the linguistic nuances that continue to define the sport today.

Football vs. Soccer

Country	What It Is Called	Notes
Afghanistan	فوټبال	translation of ‘football’ in Pashto, one of the two major languages in Afghanistan
Albania	futboll
Algeria	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Andorra	futbol
Angola	futebol	football in Portuguese
Anguilla	football
Antigua and Barbuda	football
Argentina	fútbol
Armenia	ֆուտբոլ)	translation of ‘football’ in Armenian
Aruba	voetbal
Australia	Soccer and Football	The national body is the Football Federation of Australia, but most of the population call it soccer, as there are other popular football codes, Australian Rules and Rugby.
Austria	Fußball
Azerbaijan	futbol
The Bahamas	football
Bahrain	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Bangladesh	football
Barbados	football
Belarus	футбол (futbol)	translation of ‘football’ in Belarusian
Belgium	football
Belize	football
Bermuda	football
Bolivia	fútbol
Bosnia-Herzegovina	nogomet	the word is derived from “noga”, meaning “leg”
Brazil	futebol
Bulgaria	футбол	Bulgarian for ‘football’
Burkina Faso	football
Cambodia	បាល់ទាត់ (balteat)
Cameroon	football
Canada	Soccer and Football	For most Canadians “football” is associated with Canadian or American football
Central African Republic	football
Chad	football
Chile	fútbol
China	足球	the characters mean 足 = foot and 球 = ball
Colombia	fútbol
Congo	football
Congo DR	football
Costa Rica	fútbol
Cote d’Ivoire	football
Croatia	nogomet	the word is derived from “noga”, meaning “leg”
Cuba	fútbol
Cyprus	“mappa” (μάππα)	means “ball” in greek-cypriot
Czechia	fotbal	kopaná for “kick game” is also used
Demark	fodbold
Dominica	football
Dominican Republic	fútbol
Ecuador	fútbol
Egypt	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
El Salvador	fútbol
England	football
Equatorial Guinea	fútbol
Estonia	jalgpall
Finland	jalkapallo
France	football
Georgia	ფეხბურთი (pekhburti)	from ფეხი (pekhi = foot) and ბურთი (burti = ball)
Germany	Fußball
Greece	ποδόσφαιρο (podosphero)	from πόδι (podi) = “foot” and σφαίρα (sphera) = “sphere / ball”
Grenada	football
Guatemala	fútbol
Guinea	football
Haiti	foutbòl	‘football’ in Haitian Creole
Honduras	fútbol (footbal)
Hong Kong	football
Hungary	futball	the official term is labdarúgás, literally “ball-kicking”, but foci is used in the common language.
Iceland	fótbolti or knattspyrna	knattspyrna come from knatt = ball and spyrna = kicking
India	फ़ुटबॉल (futabol)	as spoken in Hindi language
Indonesia	Sepak bola	meaning kick-ball
Ireland	football or soccer	both football and soccer terms are used. In Ireland, football can refer to association football or Gaelic football. Soccer is becoming less common, but remains strong in areas where there is another “football”.
Israel	כדורגל (kaduregel)	joining the words “כדור” (kadur: ball) and “רגל” (regel: foot, leg)
Italy	calcio	calcio is from the word calciare, meaning to kick.
Jamaica	football
Japan	sakkā (サッカー) or futtobōru (フットボール)	The term sakkā has become more common since the 2nd world war because of the American influence, despite Japan’s federation being called the JFA. The native Japanese word for football, shuukyuu (่นด็ ), which is literally foot(่นด) ball(็ ).
Jordan	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Kazakhstan	футбол (fwtbol)
South Korea (Korea Republic)	chuggu (蹴球 축구)	meaning “kick-ball”
Kuwait	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Kyrgyzstan	Жаныбарлар (janıbarlar)
Laos	ບານເຕະ (ban-te)	literally meaning “ball-kicking”
Latvia	futbols	in Latvian it is also called kājbumba
Lebanon	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Liberia	football and soccer
Libya	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Liechtenstein	Fußball
Lithuania	futbolą
Luxembourg	futbolas
Madagascar	baolina kitra
Malaysia	phutball ഫുട്ബോൾ	also, “Bolasepak” meaning ball-kick is used.
Mali	football
Malta	futbol
Mexico	fútbol
Monaco	football
Mongolia	хөлбөмбөг (khölbömbög)
Morocco	football
Mozambique	futebol
Myanmar	ball-pwe	a pwe is a rural all-night dance party
Namibia	futebol
Nepal	फुटबल (Phutabala)
Netherlands / Holland	voetbal
New Caledonia	football
New Zealand	soccer and football	there has been a recent shift in usage from soccer to football
Nicaragua	fútbol
Niger	football
Nigeria	football and soccer
Northern Ireland	football
North Macedonia	фудбал (fudbal)
Norway	fotball
Oman	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Pakistan	football and soccer	ਫੁੱਟਬਾਲ (Phutabāla) in Punjabi
Palestine	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Panama	fútbol
Papua New Guinea	soka
Paraguay	fútbol
Peru	fútbol
Philippines	soccer and football	Soccer is more common, a result of the American influence
Poland	futbol	the sport is also known as piłka nożna from piłka (ball) and noga (leg).
Portugal	futebol
Puerto Rico	soccer or fútbol
Qatar	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Romania	fotbal
Russia	футбол – futbol
Rwanda	football
Samoa	soka or football
San Marino	calcio
Saudi Arabia	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)	football in Arabic
Scotland	football
Senegal	football
Serbia	фудбал – fudbal
Singapore	football and soccer
Slovakia	futbal
Slovenia	nogomet	the word is derived from “noga”, meaning “leg”
Somalia	kubadda cagta
South Africa	soccer	sokker in Afrikaans
Spain	fútbol
Sri Lanka	පා පන්ද	from the words foot and ball in Sinhala
St Lucia	football
Sudan	maén bal
Suriname	voetbal
Sweden	fotboll
Switzerland	football
Syria	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)
Tajikistan	футбол – futbol
Thailand	ฟุตบอล – fút-bol
Trinidad & Tobago	football
Tunisia	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)
Türkiye / Turkey	futbol
Ukraine	футбол – futbol
United Arab Emirates	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)
Uruguay	fútbol
US Virgin Islands	soccer
USA	soccer	The word football is used to refer to American football, the dominant football code
Uzbekistan	futbol
Venezuela	fútbol
Vietnam	“bóng đá” and “đá banh”	both terms literally mean “kicking ball”
Wales	pêl-droed	fooball in the Welsh language
Yemen	كرة القدم (kurat alqadam)

Regions That Use the Term Football

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The term “football” finds stronghold in regions where centuries of tradition and cultural significance intertwine with the sport. In Europe, countries such as the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and Germany embrace this terminology.

“Football” embodies tradition, national pride, and a sense of unity. The term “football” encapsulates a rich heritage that connects people across generations and social strata.

Regions That Use The Term Soccer

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In specific regions, the term “soccer” takes precedence as the favored descriptor for the beautiful game. Countries like the United States and Canada have adopted this nomenclature, albeit distinct from the majority.

In North America, the prominence of American football and Canadian football has contributed to the preference for “soccer” to differentiate the sport from these gridiron counterparts. This choice eases communication and eliminates confusion, as each sport occupies a distinct niche.

Moreover, the term “soccer” aligns with linguistic norms in these regions, where sports often have specific labels (e.g., “football” for American football). The casual nature of the term also appeals to a broader audience.

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Why Do The United States and Canada Call Football “Soccer”?

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When soccer gained traction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it faced a landscape already populated by various forms of football. American football and Canadian football had already established themselves as dominant codes, each with their own rules and fan bases.

To prevent confusion, “soccer” emerged as a distinctive term to delineate the sport from the prevailing football codes. This pragmatic approach aimed to provide clarity and avoid overlap in discussions, media coverage, and casual conversations.

Furthermore, the linguistic adaptation of “soccer” aligned with North American naming conventions for sports. Over time, “soccer” became the accepted term. It reflected not only a linguistic preference but also a practical solution to coexist with other well-established sports.

American Football vs. Soccer in USA

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American football, characterized by its strategic gameplay and fervent following, occupies a prominent place in the region’s sports consciousness.

On the other hand, soccer’s presence has steadily grown, buoyed by its global appeal and accessibility. While it initially faced challenges as a newcomer, soccer’s inclusive nature and alignment with international competitions gradually garnered attention.

Both sports boast fervent followings, with American football capturing the attention of fans drawn to its elaborate tactics and traditional rivalry matchups. Meanwhile, soccer’s universal appeal transcends borders, attracting diverse communities and establishing itself as a sport that bridges cultural divides.

Why Do Australians Call Football “Soccer”?

In Australia, the term “football” encompasses Australian Rules Football (AFL), a distinct and cherished homegrown sport. This game, characterized by its oval field and high-flying marks, has deeply embedded itself within the Australian identity.

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Concurrently, “soccer” occupies a growing niche in the nation’s sports scene. The influx of multicultural influences, coupled with global exposure through international tournaments, has propelled soccer’s popularity. The term “soccer” is used to differentiate the sport from Australian Rules Football and Rugby League.

Influence of British Colonization on Spread of the Terms Football and Soccer

British colonial history played a pivotal role in exporting the terms “football” and “soccer” to diverse corners of the world. As the British Empire expanded its reach, it introduced these sports to its colonies, imprinting linguistic and cultural legacies.

In regions like India and parts of Africa, “football” took root due to British influence. The game’s structure and rules provided a common ground for British settlers and local populations.

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The term “soccer,” derived from “association football,” gained traction in British colonies as well. This concise term distinguished the sport from rugby football and other variations.

The adoption of football terminology due to colonial heritage is evident in specific regions around the world:

1. South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh): British colonial influence introduced the term football to these regions. Local communities embraced the sport, and the terminology endured as a lasting legacy.
2. Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya): British colonial history brought football to the African continent. The sport’s popularity grew, and the terminology persisted even after independence, becoming an integral part of these nations’ sporting culture.
3. Caribbean (Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados): Colonization introduced football to the Caribbean islands. The game found fertile ground, evolving into a beloved pastime. The terminology remains a testament to the historical ties with the British Empire.
4. Oceania (Fiji, Papua New Guinea): British colonial presence introduced both “football” and “soccer.” These terms resonated with the local populations, reflecting the enduring impact of colonial heritage on sports language.

Countries Where Linguistic Differences Impact the Choice Between “Football” and “Soccer”

Linguistic differences significantly influence the choice between “football” and “soccer” in various countries worldwide:

1. Canada: Despite sharing similarities with the United States, Canada tends to use “football” and “soccer” interchangeably. This is due to its bilingual English-French context.
2. New Zealand: The term “football” prevails here, reflecting British linguistic heritage. However, “soccer” is also understood and used.
3. South Africa: The nation’s linguistic diversity contributes to varying terminology. While “football” is often used, the use of “soccer” also emerges due to linguistic nuances.
4. Ireland: Here, football can refer to association football or Gaelic football. Soccer is becoming less common, but remains strong in areas where there is another “football”.
5. Singapore: Despite being a multicultural society, Singapore tends to use “soccer” due to its historical exposure to British English.
6. Malaysia: Similar to Singapore, Malaysia favors “soccer” due to historical British influence, even though the country possesses a diverse linguistic landscape.

In certain regions, the influence of indigenous languages on sports terminology is also evident.

1. Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia: These countries call football “nogomet.” The term “nogomet” is derived from “noga,” which means “leg.”
2. Cyprus: In Cyprus, people often call the beautiful game “Mappa”. Mappa here means “ball” in greek-cypriot.
3. Czechia: Czech people call it fotbal, but it’s also referred to as “kopaná”. Kopaná roughly translates to “kick game”.
4. Greece: The Greek call soccer “Podosphero”, literally translating to Football. Podi means foot and sphera means ball or sphere.
5. Iceland: There are two terms used for soccer in Iceland. Fótbolti and Knattspyrna. Knattspyrna come from knatt = ball and spyrna = kicking.

Terms Used in Global Events

1. FIFA World Cup: The term “football” dominates as the official title, reflecting the sport’s global identity.
2. Olympics: The Summer Olympics use the term “football” where the sport is part of the lineup.

Evolving Language and Modern Usage

Social media exerts a profound influence on terminology preferences among young audiences.

1. Global Connectivity: Social media connects young people from diverse backgrounds, fostering exposure to both terms. Online discussions and exposure to international content lead to familiarity with multiple terminologies.
2. Influencer Impact: Influential figures on social platforms shape trends. If popular figures use a specific term, it can sway terminology preference among their followers.
3. Cultural Fluidity: Social media breaks down geographical barriers, making youths open to diverse cultural influences. As they engage with global communities, terminology nuances become part of their lexicon.
4. Interactive Discussions: Platforms like Twitter allow direct engagement. Youth actively debate and adopt terminologies during discussions, which can drive preference shifts.
5. Memes and Creativity: Memes and creative content on social media often employ specific terms, contributing to their normalization among younger audiences.

FAQs About Countries That Call Football Soccer

Conclusion: What Countries Call Football Soccer?

In conclusion, there are several countries that call football “soccer”. In fact, contrary to popular belief US isn’t the only country that uses the term soccer for the sport.

The reason for calling it football or soccer vary from country to country. The duality in Australia, the impact of British colonialism, and the sway of social media all play a part in shaping what countries call football “soccer”.

I hope you’ve found this article insightful and fun. If you did, I invite you to share this article with fellow soccer enthusiasts and spread the knowledge.