About the Soccer World Cup Blog
The world of professional soccer does not make headlines solely on the field–headlines are made off the field as well. Of course, when players are injured, teams are eliminated, or titles are won, it’s news. In professional soccer, what happens on the field doesn’t stay on the field, especially when it has potential to impact the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.

Professional soccer is creating more buzz than it ever has away from the field. Key players are moving—to new countries and new teams—with new sponsors chomping at the bit. Big companies are doing everything they can, including buying small companies, to ensure their dominance of the global soccer scene at the World Cup. Everyday, team nicknames are being debated, captains are being named, and rivalries are being ignited. All the while, the anticipation of the next World Cup continues, bringing with it all the drama that unfolds as the world waits to see the 32 competing teams take center stage.

Fans of professional soccer want a look inside. They want to know the ins and outs of the teams and players on the pitch and behind the scenes. There’s no better place to find it all than here on this Soccer Blog. For many of us, it’s the best way to South Africa.

Over and out
GELSENKIRCHEN - St George was unavailable for comment as he left the stadium after England’s defeat last night. Or at least the man dressed...

Continue Reading Over and out

Hotting up already
The 70,000 England fans predicted here have indeed arrived. They are streaming out of the main station and lining the roads into town. In the...

Continue Reading Hotting up already


England fans flood into Germany
GELSENKIRCHEN - The Germans call it “a phenomenon”. They’re left scratching their heads at how so many English people make it here for...

Continue Reading England fans flood into Germany

Last to leave the party
STUTTGART - Outside of the passion and pain on the pitch, it is the little things that catch your eye as the world’s cultures collide at this...

Continue Reading Last to leave the party

England fans winning over German kids
COLOGNE - A whopping 85,000 England fans made it here for the match, the latest figures guestimate from officials. But before the biggest crowd...

Continue Reading England fans winning over German kids

Mark and Ted’s excellent adventure
COLOGNE - This city is a 70,000 strong throng of England fans, but two friendly faces caught my eye in the England fans area today - Mark Perry...

Continue Reading Mark and Ted’s excellent adventure

Kolsch whets the whistle
COLOGNE - If there was an international football party circuit, Cologne would be on it. With its famous Kolsch beer, pretty sights, and an eclectic...

Continue Reading Kolsch whets the whistle

BA9200 lifts off - Destination Germany!
LUTON AIRPORT - Claire Heald writes: That's it, they're off! The next time we see Beckham and co they will be in their training kit in Germa...

Continue Reading BA9200 lifts off - Destination Germany!