The Joy and Anguish of Argentine Soccer
Following decades of economic turmoil and civic distrust, Argentines place the weight of their nation’s hopes on a World Cup win
Sports
The American Soccer Bar Wakes Up
World Cup pub crowds capture the promise and potential of an emerging stateside fandom
America, the Naive
In Saturday’s World Cup–eliminating defeat, the U.S. men’s team revealed its shortcomings against the old-world sophistication of the Netherlands.
The Wizardry of South Korea’s Win
The team’s advancement to the World Cup round of 16 is poised to shape an entire generation of South Korean soccer.
The Cursed Goal
Belgium’s elimination from the World Cup showed that sometimes, for no apparent reason, the ball just won’t go in.
Ghana’s Grudge Match
Twelve years ago, Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez blocked Ghana’s shot at the semifinals with a handball. On Friday, they’ll get a chance to bite back.
The World Cup of Microsoft Excel
How can watching people fiddle with spreadsheets possibly be this fun?
The Tormented Soul of Iranian Soccer
This World Cup could pose the gravest threat yet to the Islamic regime.
What We Ask of Black American Athletes
The captain of the U.S. soccer team is the latest in a long line of sports stars who have had to wrestle with a complex legacy on the world stage.
Football Has Found Its New Bogeyman
An analytics revolution has made the sport even more entertaining. So why are some fans and commentators against it?