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.

Zidane the flawed genius
He played football from a different planet - but had a dark side

Fifa denies video evidence claims
Fifa insists video replays played no part in the dismissal of Zinedine Zidane in the World Cup final.


ITALY WORLD CHAMPIONS: Italy 1, France 1 (Italy win on penalties, 5-3)
This is it! The grand final -- Italy and France for the world championship.

Italy-France: A Look at the Tactics
A roundup of some of the best analysis pieces we've seen ahead of Sunday's finalissima.

France, Italy and the Golden Goal
Italy and France have met once before in the title match of a major tournament -- the final of the 2000 European Championship. It was an unbelievable...

Continue Reading France, Italy and the Golden Goal

To Get Your Blood Pumping …
The anthems we'll hear at about 2 pm ET Sunday: France Italy

Desailly on France
"Can you imagine how motivated my friend Zidane will be?"

Reaction to Zidane’s sending off
A round-up of reaction to Zinedine Zidane's headbutt incident during France's World Cup final defeat.