Rory Smith
Posts
The U.S. Cleared a Big World Cup Hurdle. The Knockout Round Poses Another.
The U.S. victory over Iran sent it to the round of 16, with a match against the Netherlands on Saturday. But the team already has...
Lionel Messi Saves Argentina’s World Cup
Argentina’s biggest star scored the goal that saved the day. Enzo Fernández scored the one that made him smile.
England Gets a Look at Itself, and Isn’t Sure It Likes What It Sees
Coach Gareth Southgate was unruffled by a scoreless draw against the United States. But it revealed concerns lurking just below the surface.
Brenden Aaronson Won Over Leeds. Can He Win at the World Cup?
Christian Pulisic might be the standard-bearer for the United States World Cup team, but it is Brenden Aaronson who has captured hearts in England.
A Saudi Win at the World Cup Rings Out Across the Arab World
Even the country’s de facto leader had downplayed expectations. After a win over Lionel Messi’s Argentina, one of the most shocking results in World Cup...
Saudi Arabia Stuns Lionel Messi and Argentina in World Cup’s First Shock
Argentina entered the tournament as one of the favorites in its star’s final chance at the trophy.
Qatar Embraced Its Big World Cup Moment, but Didn’t Like the Ending
At last it was here, the last word in Qatar’s attempt to announce itself to the world, to showcase all that it could do, all...
Welcome to the Joy-Free World Cup
Soccer’s biggest championship is supposed to be a celebration. So why is everyone so unhappy?
Gareth Southgate Cannot Make England Whole Again
Being the England manager was never an easy job. And that was before the country started falling apart.
France’s Karim Benzema Is Out of World Cup
The forward was seen as critical to the title hopes of a France team already hit hard by injuries.