Alice’s Guide to Soccer
By Morinsola Kukoyi
Soccer, also known as football, is one of the most popular sports worldwide. It’s a sport that many people have grown passionate about, and in true Alice fashion, here’s a guide to some players and leagues worth following.
One of the best leagues in the world is the English Premier League (EPL). While it’s a personal favorite for many, it’s also widely regarded as one of the most competitive and popular leagues globally. The EPL has produced superstars like David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Thierry Henry. Today, it remains home to some of the best soccer players and most intense matches in the sport. Having covered the basics of the EPL, it’s time to dive into some recommendations on teams and players.
For those interested in supporting a team that consistently wins, Manchester City is a great option. Led by coach Pep Guardiola, City has been a dominant force in the EPL, fresh off winning their fourth league title in a row and aiming for another. Guardiola has built a team of top-tier players, including Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, who has already scored two hat-tricks this season. The Norwegian striker has already had two hat-tricks this season. These fantastic hat-tricks happened in the games against Ipswich Town and West Ham. Haaland is widely considered one of the best strikers in the world due to his consistent goal-scoring and ability to assist teammates. In just his third season, he’s broken records, won his first Champions League title, and helped the team secure several domestic titles. Any team lucky enough to have Haaland is bound to thrive.
Another team worth mentioning is Chelsea FC. Supporting Chelsea can be an emotional rollercoaster, given the team’s recent coaching and management changes, but their passionate fan base remains loyal. New coach Enzo Maresca has set the goal of helping Chelsea win titles again, and the team is full of talented young players. One standout is Cole Palmer, who transferred from Manchester City last year. Palmer has quickly become a fan favorite with his talent, earning the nickname “Ice Cold Palmer,” by his teammate Noni Madueke. He is a creative and skillful player, always finding ways to score or assist teammates, and has already won numerous awards. While Chelsea’s journey can be unpredictable, their potential is undeniable.
The Spanish LaLiga is another league that consistently produces top-tier soccer matches. Its popularity rivals that of the EPL, and it has been home to famous players like Karim Benzema, Zinedine Zidane, and Lionel Messi. Two clubs that dominate this league are FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, who have had a rivalry that predates most modern fans. The most anticipated game in LaLiga is El Clasico, when Barcelona and Real Madrid face off in a historic derby that never fails to entertain.
Barcelona, known for producing some of the world’s best players (including Messi), is currently under the leadership of Hansi Flick. The team has started its season with impressive performances, including a recent 7-goal win. However, Barcelona has been facing financial difficulties and has had to let go of some beloved players. Still, with the current squad, the team remains strong. One player to watch is Lamine Yamal, a Spanish teenager who has taken the soccer world by storm. Fresh off a Euros win, Yamal, at just 17, has already established himself as one of Barcelona’s rising stars with his blistering pace, skillful dribbling, and maturity on the pitch. His journey is just beginning, and many are eagerly watching what he’ll do next.
Real Madrid, often considered the kings of LaLiga, is arguably the best club team in the world. With 14 Champions League titles to their name, Madrid continues to dominate the soccer scene. Under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Madrid has become a team that few enjoy facing, given their consistent success. Jude Bellingham, a young star making waves at Madrid, is another player to watch. At just 21, Bellingham has impressed with his vision, passing accuracy, and leadership on the field. Whether scoring goals or controlling the midfield, he is quickly becoming one of soccer’s brightest talents.
Soccer is more than just a sport—it’s a global phenomenon that unites fans across continents. Whether drawn to the intense competition of the English Premier League, the historic rivalries of LaLiga, or the careers of rising stars like Erling Haaland, Cole Palmer, Lamine Yamal, and Jude Bellingham, there’s something for everyone in the world of soccer. With its rich history, legendary players, and unforgettable matches, soccer continues to captivate millions. Whether a seasoned fan or a newcomer, there’s never been a better time to dive into the beautiful game.
