Long before modern football became the world’s most popular sport, people in ancient China were playing a game called Cuju (蹴鞠). Many historians believe Cuju is the earliest known form of soccer. It shows that the idea of kicking a ball for fun and competition has been around for over two thousand years.
Where Cuju Started:
Cuju began during the Warring States Period in China (around 475–221 BCE). At first, soldiers used it as a way to stay strong and improve their skills. Later, during the Han Dynasty, Cuju became a popular sport among regular people and even in the royal court.
How the Game Worked:
Cuju used a leather ball, sometimes stuffed with feathers and later filled with air. Players aimed to kick the ball through a small, round goal that was placed high on poles. This required good control and accuracy.
There were different ways to play:
- Team matches, similar to today’s football
- Skill shows, where players performed tricks and juggling
- Royal games, played in palaces with music and ceremonies
Why Cuju Was Important:
Cuju was more than entertainment. It helped soldiers train, brought people together, and became a part of Chinese culture. During the Song Dynasty, there were even Cuju clubs and professional players.
The End of Cuju—and Its Legacy:
The sport slowly disappeared after the Song Dynasty as society changed. But its influence remains. In 2004, FIFA officially recognized Cuju as the world’s earliest form of football.
In Short:
Cuju was a creative, skillful, and exciting game that paved the way for the football we love today. It’s a reminder that people have enjoyed kicking a ball and competing for thousands of years.
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