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Choose the best response for each sentence.
The World Cup: Vocabulary 1
level: B1/B2Choose the best response for each sentence.
1. The player whose main job is to stop the ball from going into the goal is called the ________.
Correct answer: goalkeeper
2. A player who tries to score goals, usually playing near the opponent's goal, is called a ________.
Correct answer: striker
3. The player who leads the team and often wears a special armband on their sleeve is the ________.
Correct answer: captain
4. If a player kicks the ball to a teammate, we say they ________ the ball.
Correct answer: pass
5. The official who controls the match and enforces the rules is the ________.
Correct answer: referee
6. A player who comes onto the field to replace another player during the match is called a ________.
Correct answer: substitute
7. The area in front of the goal where the goalkeeper is allowed to use their hands is called the ________.
Correct answer: penalty area
8. Players in the middle of the field who help both attack and defend are called ________.
Correct answer: midfielders
9. When a player moves the ball forward using quick touches with their feet, they ________ the ball.
Correct answer: dribble
10. The person who trains the team and decides which players will start the match is called the ________.
Correct answer: coach
Did you know?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first ever to be co-hosted by three countries — the United States, Canada, and Mexico — and runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026. With 48 national teams taking part, it's the biggest World Cup in history. While you follow the matches this summer, it's a great chance to pick up some football (soccer) vocabulary that comes up again and again in match commentary, news articles, and conversations with fans.
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