Cleats, two types. One pair for muddy pitches with six long studs, another for fair pitches that have more studs for better traction.

Shin guards. People are wildly swinging around their spiked feet. This one's pretty self-explanatory.

Sliding shorts. Not necessary, but totally fun.

Stamina. Soccer demands its players run more than pretty much any other major sport.

Finesse. Not the shampoo. The best soccer players do it with style.