Water polo is a team sport that is primarily played in a swimming pool. The objective of the game is to score goals by throwing a ball into the opposing team’s goal. The game is played by two teams of seven players each, with six field players and one goalkeeper. The field players are able to swim with the ball and pass it to their teammates, while the goalkeeper’s main responsibility is to protect the goal.

The game is divided into four quarters, each lasting eight minutes. If the game ends in a tie, a sudden death period may be played to determine a winner. Fouls and exclusion (a temporary ban from the game) are used as a means of enforcing the rules.

Water polo is a physically demanding sport that requires players to have a high level of fitness, endurance, and strength. Players must be able to swim, tread water, and pass the ball effectively while also being able to defend and attack. The game also requires players to have good ball-handling skills and the ability to work well in a team.

Water polo is a popular sport around the world and is played at both the amateur and professional level. It is also included in the program of the Olympic Games. To play water polo, players need to wear a swimsuit, cap, and often a mouthguard. The game is typically played in a pool that is 25 meters long and ranges from 2 to 4 meters deep.