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5 Stages of Lionel Messi’s World Cup Legacy

5 Stages of Lionel Messi’s World Cup Legacy

From a teenage prodigy to a global icon, we trace the five-act drama of Lionel Messi's tumultuous and ultimately triumphant World Cup journey.

The World Cup Pressure Advantage Dark Horses Sometimes Have

The World Cup Pressure Advantage Dark Horses Sometimes Have

Explore the psychological phenomenon of how underdog teams at the World Cup can turn the crushing weight of expectation into a powerful advantage.

5 World Cup Matchups That Feel Like a No. 1 Seed Trap

5 World Cup Matchups That Feel Like a No. 1 Seed Trap

In the World Cup, even giants can fall. We break down five group stage matchups that looked like classic 'trap games' for the tournament's top seeds.

5 Men’s World Cup Legends Whose Legacy Changed in One Match

5 Men’s World Cup Legends Whose Legacy Changed in One Match

Exploring five legendary soccer players whose entire career narrative and legacy were forever altered by their performance in a single World Cup match.

World Cup Countries Ranked by Storyline Strength

World Cup Countries Ranked by Storyline Strength

The World Cup is about more than just winning. We rank the countries from the last tournament with the most powerful and dramatic storylines.

The Cinderella Team Idea, Translated From NFL to World Cup

The Cinderella Team Idea, Translated From NFL to World Cup

The concept of a 'Cinderella' team is a staple of American sports. Here's how that beloved underdog story translates—and changes—in the World Cup.

The “Veteran Last Dance” World Cup Player Tier

The “Veteran Last Dance” World Cup Player Tier

A tier-list ranking of the veteran legends like Messi, Ronaldo, and Modrić who treated the 2022 World Cup as their final shot at glory.

The Five Types of World Cup Pool Hosts and How to Beat Each One

The Five Types of World Cup Pool Hosts and How to Beat Each One

Playing a World Cup host is a unique challenge. Here are the five types of host nations you'll encounter and the tactical keys to overcoming them.

How to Pick Group Stage Winners Without Watching Soccer All Year

How to Pick Group Stage Winners Without Watching Soccer All Year

Learn a few simple tricks to make smart picks in your soccer tournament bracket, even if you haven't been following the sport all year long.

Myth vs Fact: Is the World Cup Just About Soccer?

Myth vs Fact: Is the World Cup Just About Soccer?

The World Cup is the planet's biggest sporting event, but its true significance extends far beyond the pitch to politics, economics, and national identity.

If you take one player from any country and put him on the World Cup team you support, who would it be and why?

If you take one player from any country and put him on the World Cup team you support, who would it be and why?

There are a bevy of fun options.

Messi joins high-profile World Cup injury concerns just weeks before big kickoff

Injuries to some of soccer’s star players are mounting ahead of next month's World Cup