The most likely contributing factor is the small scale versions of football a lot of South American children are brought up playing, before they start playing full-size soccer, as we know it. There are 2 main variants which are both starting to make their way into the UK now; these are futsal and beach soccer Both games are 5-a-side and emphasise good ball control, agility and a touch of finesse. Futsal is played indoors with a smaller ball and goal and was developed in Uruguay in the 1930s’ while Beach Soccer, developed in Brazil in the 1990’s can be played indoors or out as long as there is a sand court.