Soccer is by far the most popular game on the entire planet. Played on every continent except Antarctica and by 250 million people across 150 countries the game transcends cultures. For some countires, football – or soccer, as it is known in the United States and Canada – has become more than a sport but a religion and a part of the national identity. The fact that the only piece of equipment needed is a ball has helped to push the sport to many regions, including poorer areas where other types of sports and their equipment needs are not possible. Today it is the most popular sport in Europe, Africa and South America.