Analysis

Are players faking injuries to miss the World Cup?

I know what you’re thinking: “This is insane. Nobody would intentionally miss the World Cup. It’s the largest event on the planet, and for the players, it's something they’ve dreamed about since childhood.”

And to an extent, you’d be correct, but this story isn’t exactly about injuries. It’s about social issues and the appalling track record of the nation that's hosting the tournament. Could it be remotely possible that players would feign injury to avoid being part of an event that's riddled with human rights abuses? 

Crysensio Summerville's late winner gives Leeds 4-3 comeback win over Bournemouth

Saturday’s stunning early action between Leeds and Bournemouth at Elland Road saw the home crowd’s halftime boos turn to bliss in the second half as Jesse Marsch’s side snatched a 4-3 win from the jaws of defeat. 

American Outlaws hit back at New York Times article allegations

The United States’ largest soccer supporters group, the American Outlaws, came under fire Thursday following a New York Times article claiming that a board member accepted a free trip to Qatar in exchange for reporting individuals who are critical of the host nation. The Outlaws have vehemently denied these allegations and issued a statement, saying the organization has never taken money from FIFA or Qatar and will never do so.

Champions League round of 16 odds: Who's most likely to meet in the knockout stage?

It was another memorable UEFA Champions League group stage with England, Germany and Portugal flexing their collective might while Spain suffered some historically bad performances. The Champions League last 16 draw date is now set for Monday, Nov.

Gareth Bale has no role to play in MLS Cup — can he even be a factor against the USA?

Toward the end of September, it looked like LAFC was about to unlock the best of Gareth Bale. He hadn't scored in his last seven appearances (totaling 245 minutes) after finding the net twice in his first four (96 minutes), but more importantly, the 33-year-old Welshman had just recorded his second start.

MLS Cup predictions for Saturday's clash of the titans

For the first time in far too long, MLS Cup is a meeting between the premier teams in the Western and Eastern Conferences. If it feels like we've been waiting a while for this sort of heavyweight clash, the anticipation is only heightened by two sides that make creating a 2022 MLS Cup prediction feel like a fool's errand.

Both teams and their respective squads have been steadily building towards this moment for years, and the pain of falling agonizingly short time after time has been eased with a first-ever MLS Cup appearance for both clubs.

USMNT goalkeeper power rankings: Steffen's mistakes continue to compound

In three weeks, the USMNT begins its World Cup campaign in Qatar. Much is still to be decided for the final roster — especially at the goalkeeper position.

During the September international break (with Zack Steffen omitted as a precautionary measure as he recovered from injury), Matt Turner started against Japan and Saudi Arabia. Turner had a strong showing against Japan, and was arguably the top American performer that day, before having little to do in a dull match versus the Saudis in Spain.

MLS playoffs confirm undervalued USMNT truth: Kellyn Acosta is a big-game player

From a USMNT perspective, the MLS Cup Playoffs have only served to reinforce the poorly trending narrative around the team. 

USWNT roster release: Alex Morgan could reach 200 caps vs. Germany

Alex Morgan is back on the U.S. Women's National Team roster with a chance to reach 200 caps for her stellar career.

Coach Vlatko Andonovski announced the 24-team roster on Monday for two upcoming friendlies against Germany with Morgan listed as one of the team's seven forwards.

Another American goes down: USMNT dealt Weston McKennie injury blow

There's more unfortunate news for the USMNT midfield with just 22 days to go until lining up against Wales: Weston McKennie, after coming off injured at the start of the second half during Juventus' 1-0 win over Lecce on Saturday, has been diagnosed with a thigh injury that'll keep him out for over two weeks.

Pages