In sports, the target is the physical structure or area in which the attacking team must deliver the ball or ice hockey to score. In some sports, goals are the only way to score, so the final score is expressed by the total number of goals scored by each team. In other sports, a goal may be one of several scoring methods, so it may be worth having points different from other scoring methods.

The structure of the goal varies with the movement. Usually, it is a rectangular structure placed at both ends of the playground. Each structure usually consists of two vertical columns (called target columns) supporting a horizontal cross bar. The goal line marked on the match surface between the goal posts delineates the goal area. Therefore, the goal is to send the ball or puck under or above the crossbeam (depending on the sport) and across the goal line between the goal posts. Less commonly, for example, basketball or cricket free basketball, the goal is circular. This structure usually has an auxiliary net, when the goal is scored, the auxiliary net will stop or slow down the speed of the ball.

In the Football Association (known as football in Australia, Canada and the United States), goals are the only way to score. It is also used to refer to the scoring structure. Scoring a goal is called "shooting.". To score, the ball must pass completely over the goal line between the goal posts and under the crossbeam, and rules must not be violated in the game (e.g. touching the ball with hands or arms).

The goal structure is defined as a 24 foot (7.32 m) wide, 8 foot (2.44 m) high frame. In most organized games, a net cover is placed behind the goal to catch the ball and show that the goal has been scored. However, the game law does not stipulate that the net must be used, and any net only required to be used shall not interfere with the goalkeeper.