Explore

5 Scheduling Changes That Changed How Fans Watch the World Cup

5 Scheduling Changes That Changed How Fans Watch the World Cup

From winter tournaments to bracket expansions, explore the key scheduling decisions that have forever altered the World Cup fan experience.

The Matchups That Make World Cup Giants Look Vulnerable

The Matchups That Make World Cup Giants Look Vulnerable

Every World Cup giant has a weakness. We explore the specific tactical matchups that can turn a tournament favorite into an early exit.

How a Bracket Pool Turns a Casual Fan Into a Real World Cup Watcher

How a Bracket Pool Turns a Casual Fan Into a Real World Cup Watcher

A simple bracket pool can transform a casual observer into a deeply invested fan during the month-long drama of the FIFA World Cup tournament.

5 Events That Took the Men’s World Cup From Small to Global

5 Events That Took the Men’s World Cup From Small to Global

From a regional tournament to the planet's biggest spectacle, these five key moments transformed the FIFA Men's World Cup into a global phenomenon.

World Cup Coaches Ranked by Pressure Level

World Cup Coaches Ranked by Pressure Level

From the dark horses to the title-or-bust favorites, we rank the immense pressure facing managers at the FIFA World Cup.

SB Nation’s Guide to the World Cup

SB Nation’s Guide to the World Cup

Get ready for the World Cup!

The “Respect Them Immediately” World Cup Nation Tier

The “Respect Them Immediately” World Cup Nation Tier

A tier list of the World Cup nations that, despite not always being favorites, command immediate respect due to their grit, history, and ability to upset giants.

How Simultaneous World Cup Games Create NBA-Style Tension

How Simultaneous World Cup Games Create NBA-Style Tension

Discover how the World Cup's simultaneous final group games produce a unique, real-time drama that mirrors the tension of an NBA playoff race.

Now watch this: US coach Mauricio Pochettino turns to laptop in-game during match with Senegal

Now watch this: US coach Mauricio Pochettino turns to laptop in-game during match with Senegal

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino used a laptop to give tactical instructions during a hydration break in Sunday’s friendly against Senegal

How Depth Separates World Cup Powerhouses From Hype Teams

How Depth Separates World Cup Powerhouses From Hype Teams

An analysis of why squad depth, not just star power, is the true deciding factor between a World Cup contender and a team that's just media hype.

Why the World Cup Makes Random Teams Feel Personal

Why the World Cup Makes Random Teams Feel Personal

Ever wonder why you get so invested in a random team during the World Cup? Here’s the psychology behind the global tournament's unique emotional pull.

5 Steps in Japan’s Rise as a World Cup Threat

5 Steps in Japan’s Rise as a World Cup Threat

Japan's recent World Cup success wasn't an accident. Discover the five strategic steps, from the J.League to a 100-year plan, that built them into a global force.