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  • Rory Smith

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Black and Spanish: A National Team Starts to Reflect All of Its Nation

An increasingly diverse Spain squad is drawing in fans who had once seen it as a symbol of their country, but not necessarily of them.

The Giant World Cup Rookie and an Enduring Dutch Mystery

The Netherlands is Europe’s most reliable talent factory. Unless you need a goalkeeper.

It’s the World Cup’s Hot Accessory. But Should Fans Wear It?

Head scarves in the colors of the participating teams have become fan favorites in Qatar. Rather than object, locals say they like the twist on…

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…

Germany Meets the Moment and Keeps its World Cup Hopes Alive

A single moment shows just how fast a team’s journey can turn.

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.

Richarlíson, Brazil and, maybe, the start of something special.

Richarlíson scored both goals for Brazil, one of the tournament favorites, as it opened with a win against Serbia.

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.

African Teams Pad World Cup Rosters With European Recruits

More than 130 players at the World Cup represent a country other than that of their birth. A few of them committed only months before…