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Bold predictions for international football in 2015

For most clubs, 2015 will merely represent a change in the calendar, showing no marked difference in play from the year that preceded it. But there is change on the horizon for others. Let’s take a closer look at what may take place in 2015. Manchester United are poised to win the English Premier League […]

Major League Soccer is trending upward

This week we shift continents and address the current state of Major League Soccer and what the future might hold. Its inaugural season began in 1996. Within a year, attendance began to drop. And by 2002, the league had lost some $300 million and two of its original ten teams had ceased operations (Miami Fusion […]

Top five performances in Lionel Messi’s career

It’s no secret that Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is one of the most dynamic and creative footballers to ever play the game. Messi’s accomplishments are nothing short of astounding, especially given that he’s only 27 years of age. The Argentine international has won a record four FIFA Ballon d’Or awards, three Golden Shoe accolades and […]

The Maestro’s crescendo: A tribute to Lionel Messi’s goal-scoring record

The upper-echelon clubs in Europe have some of the best talent in the world on their rosters. But words can’t even describe the players who are literally the best of the best, like Lionel Messi. The Maestro recorded a hat trick in Saturday’s 5-1 win against Sevilla, and he  broke the all-time La Liga goal-scoring […]

Five marquee footballers likely on the move when the transfer window opens

Football fans across the globe were let down this weekend during the international break. But there are still plenty of matches on the horizon, and the (January) transfer window is set to open in just six weeks’ time. And the rumor mill is already heating up. Traditionally, the in-season window is known as being the […]

Which European football clubs are playing at a level above the rest?

With no league matches scheduled for next week, there are a few teams that are consistently dominating its opposition and staying ahead of the pack. Let’s take a closer look at them. Chelsea In their second season under Jose Mourinho’s control, they have played near flawless football in arguably the toughest league in the world. […]

Which upper-echelon clubs were spooked on Halloween weekend?

With today’s slate of matches in the books, let’s take a look at two quality clubs that were carved up like Jack O’Lanterns by bottom feeders. Liverpool Newcastle seemed outmatched heading into the game against a far more talented Liverpool squad. That theme did not seem to distract the Magpies, however, as they took all three […]

Five injuries to football stars that are impacting international play

With more games added every year to the schedule, it is a foregone conclusion that players’ injuries will increase as well. And with compensation of top-flight players increasing each year and many teams operating on a strict budget, this has caused friction between the club teams (who are paying players’ wages) and their international teams, […]

Five thoughts on the Euro 2016 qualifiers thus far

The qualifiers for the 2016 European Championships are now underway. Much like the World Cup, the teams are split into nine groups. Each group is comprised of six teams (with the exception of Group I, which has five teams). Once the group stage matches are complete, twenty three teams will join France (who as host […]

Three European clubs that were previously struggling but are now contenders

Everyone loves an underdog, and there are several in the top European football leagues. While it’s early in their club campaigns, there are a few teams that are confounding the pundits and playing football at a high level. Let’s give these teams some love and take a closer look at them. Southampton FC Here is […]

Five International football players and teams trending upward

At this stage of their respective campaigns, there are some teams in dire need of success on the pitch. Let’s take a look at what transpired this week and how these teams can use their momentum as a springboard heading into the subsequent weeks of the season. Mesut Ozil By all accounts, this German international footballer […]

Five things we learned in European football play over the weekend

As we approach a bye week for the overseas football leagues, let’s take a look at some of the highlights (and lowlights) in league play over the past weekend.  Some teams we anoint, while others just disappoint. The season has barely begun, but there are some trends that seem to be developing. As the transfer […]

This week in international football (video highlights and recaps)

Week 2 has come and gone in Europe, and things are beginning to take shape. The better teams are vying for the top spots, while the rest of the teams fight for the remaining positions.  But it’s a long season, the transfer window remains open until Sept. 1, and it is possible that one of […]

5 Things We Learned from 2014 World Cup

With Germany emerging victorious over Argentina in the World Cup final, the tournament has now come to a close. And nearly every match was thoroughly entertaining. While there were moments that were less than stellar—Luis Suarez’s Hannibal Lecter impersonation, Brazil’s early surrender to the Germans—these events did not overshadow the level of play we witnessed by the thirty two […]

Ranking the Remaining World Cup Squads Heading into Tournament’s Semifinals

As the World Cup progresses to its final match-ups, the cream has risen to the top. While most of the games have been nail biters, often going to extra time and even penalty kicks, the pedigreed teams have prevailed. Whether it be their workmanlike play and deep bench (Germany), or their offensive prowess from all […]

Foreign-Based International Soccer Stars Flock to MLS

The World Cup showcases the best in team play. Unfortunately, Major League Soccer does not. Yet the recent signings of these three high profile foreign based players has many analysts and fans alike buzzing. Let’s take a look at a few of them and attempt to make sense of it all. Kaka: Orlando City FC […]

Which World Cup Squads Are Headed for Early Exits in the Knockout Stage?

Sadly, play in the group stage of the World Cup has come to an end.  We’ve seen teams make exits that were inevitable (Australia, Iran), as well as some surprises (Spain, Italy). Now, with sixteen left going into the knockout stage, there are teams that are smitten (United States) and bitten (Suarez and Uruguay). Let’s […]

With Spain On the Decline, Which World Cup Squad Could Become the Next Dynasty?

Spain has certainly had a storied run in international football over the last decade. Between November 2006 and June 2009, La Roja went undefeated for a record-tying 35 consecutive matches before their loss to the United States, a record shared only with Brazil. The team’s achievements have led many experts and former players to conclude […]

World Cup 2014: Which Teams Are In Top Form and Could Possibly Win It All?

As the World Cup progresses through its group stage, it is far too early to predict a winner. However, there are some teams that are playing at a higher level than their competition. It may be their team’s current form, weak group or lack of serious injuries. Let’s take a closer look at these teams and […]

World Cup Day 3 Recap: Winners, Losers & Video Highlights

Saturday’s World Cup action featured four exciting matches. This is the only day of the entire tournament that features four games. Let’s take a look at how it all went down. Colombia vs Greece Biggest Question: In a group as wide open as this one, how would Colombia play without their star striker Radamel Falcao? […]

World Cup 2014 Day 2 Recap: Best, Worst & Video Highlights

The first full day of the 2014 World Cup showcased plenty of goals, and plenty of action. Let’s take a look at the best and worst moments from each game. Mexico vs Cameroon Biggest Winner: Miguel Herrera, Mexico’s manager. From the opening whistle, his offense took the game to its opposition, keeping the ball in […]

World Cup 2014: What We Learned from Brazil-Croatia Match

Today’s Brazil-Croatia match marked the beginning of World Cup 2014. Here are a few takeaways from Brazil’s 3-1 victory. Referees can still blow a call no matter the level of play With the game level at 1-1, Fred went down and took a dive in the box after virtually no contact. Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura immediately […]

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