MAJOR SOCCER COMPETITIONS

Introduction:

The World Cup is the major international soccer competition which FIFA organizes. The duration of the competition lasts for four years. More than 190 teams participate in the tournaments, taking into consideration the continental confederations for a final berth.  The finals of the soccer game are organized on a four year basis and comprises of 32 teams. The strength of the teams increased in the year 1998, from 24 in the year 1994. The FIFA World Cup in the year 2006 was organized in Germany. In the year 2010, the tournament is organized to be held in South Africa.

Miscellaneous:

From the year 1900, a soccer tournament was organized at each of the Summer Olympic Games. The only exception to these games was the 1932 games, which were held in the city of Los Angeles. Previous to the World Cup inception, the status of the Olympics was the same as the World Cup. Initially, the game was limited only to the amateur soccer players. It was the 1984 Summer Olympics, when the games were held for professionals also. However, these were done with certain restrictions. In the year 1996, the tournament for women was conducted. This was in stark contrast as compared to the events for men. Sans the age restrictions, the Olympic tournament for women is played by all the international sides. In addition, the game also carries a prestige on an international level which can be compared to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Championship.