Jugar fútbol o jugar al fútbol?

Question

Hola amigos. I have a question here. Is it necessary to put an al after the word jugar? If yes, could someone please explain why is it so? Thanks! =D

Answer 1

Jugar "al" fútbol is the correct way. It's the same way with all sports. however, I have notice that many of my Latino students omit the "al". It may be due to the influence that English has over the Spanish in the area in which I live.

As to the "why" Jugar requires the preposition "a" when referring to a sport and even playing cards or chess. Jugar a las cartas or jugar al ajedrez. Although like I said, this is in transition.

go CR! - Rey_Mysterio, May 6, 2015

Thanks a lot for the explanation! =D - maylaj, May 6, 2015