The ongoing World Cup has reignited discussion regarding the proper terminology for the world’s most popular sport – football or soccer. The article examines the historical roots of both terms, noting their differing usage across regions. While “football” originated from the game’s early association with foot-based play, “soccer” emerged in England as a slang term differentiating it from rugby football. Interestingly, the French commonly use “le foot” as a shortened version, despite a rich linguistic tradition of expressions referencing feet (“le pied”). The piece highlights the cultural nuances embedded within the seemingly simple act of naming the game. Ultimately, both terms remain valid, reflecting the sport’s global reach and evolving history.