Futsal is widely played across the world, and is the small sided football format that is officially recognised by both UEFA and FIFA. The nature of the game places a large emphasis on technical skill and ability in situations of high pressure, and is subsequently an excellent breeding ground for football competencies that can be translated into the 11-a-side format of the game.
Futsal began in Uruguay and Brazil where the large crowded cities and a shortage of playing pitches forced a football mad populace to play small sided football and in 1936 the first rules emerged. Futsal was the name chosen by FIFA, which is simply a combination of the Spanish words for ‘hall’ (Sala) and ‘football’ (Futbol): hence ‘Futsal’.
Futsal is a five-a-side game, normally played on a flat indoor pitch with hockey sized goals and a size four ball with a reduced bounce. It is played to touchlines and all players are free to enter the penalty area and play the ball over head height. Games are 20 minutes per half, played to a stopping clock (similar to basketball) with time-outs permitted.
There are a number of differences to our traditional version of small sided football, but the dominant elements are the absence of rebound boards and amendments in the laws that encourage and foster skilful, creative play above the physical contact that tends to be a feature of English five-a-side.
No football team demonstrates this devastating brand of football more than Spanish giants Barcelona, who have Iniesta orchestrating at the heart of midfield. “I started off playing futsal, everything grew from there,” said the Spaniard.
“Playing now, takes me back to my roots. In the small, confined spaces you had to find ways out – different ways each time. Predictable meant defeat, so it pays to try new things; to take risks. But you learn fast that possession is king and that never changes, no matter where you play.”
The midfield maestro has been an instrumental figure in Barcelona’s recent dominance of Spanish football and, in addition to his six La Liga titles and three Champions League triumphs, Iniesta has also helped the Spanish national team rise to prominence with back-to-back European titles either side of being crowned World champions.
Yes, Iniesta is just one player but he is an integral piece in Barcelona and Spain’s wonderful jigsaws. When all the pieces are in place the puzzles are complete and the final product is mesmerising: total football from a group of talented individuals who grew up on a futsal court.
There are futsal clubs scattered across the UK waiting for an influx of young players to make their mark on the sport. The next Pelé, Iniesta or Ronaldo is waiting in the wings, but who says they have to be of European or South American descent?
Search for your local club and give futsal a go. It could be the best thing you ever do.
FACTORY
What is futsal?
Basic rules
Barca futsal