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.

Sven’s sorry exit
Eriksson apologises for a trail of major tournament failures

Terry Butcher’s England view
"We're no further forward than when Sven was appointed"


England poised to leave Germany
England's squad will fly home from the World Cup on Sunday following their quarter-final exit against Portugal.

Following captain Beckham
John Terry and Steven Gerrard lead head the queue to replace David Beckham as England skipper.

Right time for Becks to step down
Was the time right for David Beckham to step down as England captain?

Beckham quits as England captain
David Beckham steps down as England captain in the wake of their quarter-final defeat by Portugal.

Rooney handed red card deadline
Wayne Rooney is given until Thursday to file a statement about his red card in England's World Cup defeat by Portugal.

Squad is heartbroken - Carragher
Jamie Carragher says England's players have been left devastated by their World Cup exit.