Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for soccer is サッカー (sakkā), borrowed from English. The traditional term 蹴球 (shūkyū) is rarely used today. When talking about playing soccer, use サッカーをする (sakkā o suru).
Referring to the game itself, as a sport or activity.
The standard modern word for soccer in Japanese, used in all contexts.
Expressing the action of playing soccer.
The most common way to say 'play soccer'. Use the verb する (to do) with サッカー.
私はサッカーが好きです。
I like soccer.
I'm going to watch a soccer match.
An older, traditional term for soccer. Rarely used in modern conversation; may appear in historical contexts or some team names.
I joined the soccer club. (traditional)
I play soccer with friends after school.
Would you like to play soccer tomorrow?
A more casual way to say 'play soccer'. やる is a casual verb for 'do'.
Wanna play soccer today?