Foosball is a popular game played all over the world. The game was invented in 1921 by Harold Thornton, and goes by various names in different countries. For example, in Mexico, it is known as “futbolito”, while in Germany it is referred to as “kicker”.
Foosball is a fun game to play for everyone. Read on for an overview of the rules of playing the table game.
What You Need to Play Foosball
Foosball is a game of 2 to 4 players. To play the game, you need a foosball table and a ball. The table comprises of two teams, each with 13 figures. Players stand on opposite sides and maneuver 2 to 4 rods, trying to kick the ball to their opponents’ goal.
In a one-on-one game, each player can use 4 rods to control the ball. In a two-on-two game, each player selects 2 rods for use for offense or defense.
Foosball Official Playing Rules
The International Table Soccer Federation (ITSF) has set out the official rules for playing foosball. Below is an overview of the rules:
- To start a game, players have to flip a coin to determine who will be the first to go
- Balls have to be served through the serving holes
- Players have to continue playing until any of the following: someone scores, the ball gets immobile in a location where neither team can hit it, or the other team calls for a timeout
- A goal is scored when the ball enters the goal. A score still counts even if the ball bounces off the goal after scoring
- The team that concedes the last goal starts new serves
- Players cannot spin their rods to move the ball
- During gameplay, the foosball table should not be moved, banged on the sides, or the rods slammed back and forth against the table walls
- No hands should be on the playing field unless if the ball has been declared “dead”
- Players should not touch rods that belong to their opponents
- The first player to get five points wins the game
Foosball is an exciting game to play. The above is an overview of the basic rules of playing it.
Also Read: What to Look for When Investing in a Foosball Game Table
