“Ah, that’s just outdoor futsal, right?”
Come on, Fit People, you probably thought that about mini soccer, didn’t you? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many still mistake it for just a variation of futsal.
But actually, mini soccer has a world of its own, complete with its history, benefits, and even serious international tournaments!
Let’s fully explore this small-field sport that’s rapidly gaining popularity.
What is Mini Soccer? Also Known as Mini Football Globally
Mini soccer, or globally known as mini football, is a smaller version of soccer played by 5-9 players per team, including the goalkeeper, on an outdoor synthetic turf field.
What’s the difference from futsal? The field is larger, the surface is synthetic grass (not hard indoor court), and the playing style is closer to 11-a-side football, but faster and more dynamic.
Interestingly, mini football isn’t just a weekend game. It’s a recognized sport governed by a global organization called the World Minifootball Federation (WMF). So, we’re talking about a sport that has its own career path and competitions.
A Brief History & International Mini Football Tournaments
Mini football started gaining serious attention since the formation of the WMF in 2013. This federation oversees dozens of countries with active mini football communities and leagues.
In 2015, the WMF held its first world tournament: the Mini Football World Cup in the United States. Since then, this tournament has been held regularly every two years and continues to grow, especially in Europe and Latin America.
Asia is not to be outdone. Countries like India, Thailand, Iran, and Singapore are actively participating in international tournaments. Even Indonesia’s National Mini Football Team participated in this tournament for the first time, which took place in Baku, Azerbaijan.
In Indonesia itself, many communities have held mini soccer leagues and tournaments. Although not yet officially integrated into the national structure, Mini Soccer in Indonesia already has its official federation called the Indonesian Mini Football Federation (Federasi Sepakbola Mini Indonesia).
Mini Soccer vs Futsal vs Football: So You Don’t Get Confused Again
| Category | Mini Soccer | Futsal | Football (Soccer) |
| Players | 5–9 players | 5 players | 11 players |
| Field | Outdoor synthetic turf | Indoor, hard floor | Large natural grass & Synthetic Grass |
| Play Style | Fast & strategic combo | Fast & technical | Full team strategy |
| Ball | Like regular football | Smaller & heavier | Standard FIFA ball |
So, if you want to play football in a competitive yet fun atmosphere, and it’s safe for your joints, mini soccer is the answer.
Benefits of Playing Mini Soccer
- Get Fitter! Short runs, sprints, dribbles, and shots, it all happens in one game. Your cardio gets a hit, your power goes up. One mini soccer session can burn up to 500–700 calories!
- Teamwork & Communication Sharpened On a small field, there’s no room for ego. You have to read your teammates’ movements and learn clear communication. Perfect for building bonds within office teams or communities.
- Safe for All Ages Because of the smaller area and adjustable intensity, mini soccer is friendlier for those aged 30+ who want to stay active without worrying about major injuries.
- Great for Socializing! Playing with old friends, forming new communities, or just blowing off steam after work, mini soccer is more than just a sport. It’s a healthy and fun social space.
Mini Soccer in Indonesia: Growing Communities, Expanding Potential
In cities like Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and even Makassar, mini soccer fields are popping up everywhere. Inter-community tournaments are getting more lively.
Some fields even provide digital scorekeeping systems, mini stands, and live streaming facilities on social media. The potential is huge. Who knows, maybe from these small communities, big players will emerge for the next Mini Football World Cup, right?
Conclusion: The Field May Be Small, But Mini Soccer’s Potential is Huge!
Mini soccer is not a fringe sport. It’s a global sport on the rise, with real fitness benefits and a continuously growing community.
So, if you’ve never played, maybe now’s the perfect time to give it a shot. Get your turf shoes ready, invite your friends from the office, and experience the fun yourself.
Because in the world of mini soccer, it’s not the spirit that’s small. Instead, it’s from this small field that a big spirit for health and connection can grow. So, Fit People, are you interested in playing Mini Soccer?
