Disney Sports Soccer is the first game in the series of Konami/Disney collaborations that put Disney characters into sports simulations. The Soccer entry is based on Konami's Winning Eleven/ISS series, offering a similarly complex simulation of the sport crossed with more arcade-like features. The game features eight different teams, each captained by characters like Mickey, Donald, and Goofy.
The gameplay in Disney Sports Soccer is varied and fun, with three main game modes to choose from: exhibition games (for up to four players), Dream Cup and Challenge Cup. Players can also experiment with different formations, strategies, and player upgrades to give their team an edge. The controls allow for a range of moves during a match, including shot curves, one-two passes, keeper charges, volleys, and more. Arcade elements are also present, where magic abilities can be unlocked through winning Cup matches, allowing players to use powers such as extra-powerful kicks or short time invincibility.