蹴鞠（Cuju）——中国古代足球

历史渊源

蹴鞠是中国古代用脚踢皮球的竞技运动，最早记载见于《战国策》。汉代（公元前206年-公元220年）发展为军事训练项目，唐宋时期（618-1279年）达到鼎盛，成为宫廷和民间的流行娱乐活动。

竞技规则

球场：称“鞠城”，两端设竹制球门
用球：外层皮革，内填羽毛或毛发
赛制：分队对抗，以进球数定胜负

文化影响

2004年国际足联正式认定蹴鞠为足球起源。2006年被列入中国首批国家级非物质文化遗产。

Cuju: Ancient Chinese Football

Cuju (蹴鞠), literally "kick the ball", originated in China's Warring States period (476-221 BC). It evolved into a military exercise during the Han Dynasty and became a popular royal pastime in the Tang and Song Dynasties.

Key Features

Field: Called "Ju Cheng" with bamboo goals
Ball: Leather exterior stuffed with feathers
Teams: Competitive matches with scoring system

Cultural Legacy

FIFA recognized Cuju as the origin of soccer in 2004. It was listed in China's first National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2006.