Matches of the World Cup: Part One

Sprouting from the mouth following the end of sport’s greatest tournament were calls that the World Cup did not live up to its early promise; it cannot be reckoned to be one of the best; there were very few shock results; and diving along with yellow and red cards ruined the spectacle.
But in the mix [...]

Old order reasserts itself

Tim Wigmore reflects on World Cup 2006 as the established nations dominated once again and Italy emerged triumphant after a month of scintillating football.

Banished from the Circus

Much was expected of the Ivory Coast this summer but, although they pushed Argentina and Holland hard, the tournament was ultimately hugely disappointing for Henri Michel’s side.

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Group Stage Final Match Previews

Who’s in the next round, which nations are on hold and who is heading home?
The first two rounds of the World Cup have contained few surprises, some disappointments, and only two nations (Argentina and Spain) truly putting their hat in the winners ring. Going into the final round for each group, there are still qualification [...]

Goals of the World Cup

I don’t think anyone can remember a World Cup with so many great goals in such a short period. The group stages are still to be concluded but already there are many candidates for the goal of the World Cup accolade. Footballing World runs through some of the best so far, with 15 on the [...]