S. African Strike Threatens World Cup
Jul 8, 2009 Talk about a trump card. The 2010 World Cup in South Africa is set to be a momentous occasion for the country to show itself off to the world. But a strike by 70,000 construction workers demanding pay increases has halted work on the stadiums being built for the tournament.
North Korea Qualifies for 2010 World Cup
Jun 19, 2009 After an uninspiring scoreless draw with fellow autocratic state Saudi Arabia, it seems that North Korea's football (soccer) team has managed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The qualification raises the possibility of a cup confrontation with South Korea -- or even the U.S. -- next summer.
AIG: From Riches to Rags
Jun 3, 2009 It looks like the $150 billion bailout of AIG included everything but advertising funds. After four years of the insurance giant's logo gracing the jerseys of one of the world's most famous soccer teams, troubled economic times are bumping the iconic symbol in favor of a new sponsor.A Kick-Start for the Homeless
May 5, 2009 Four years ago, Lawrence Cann founded Street Soccer USA, an organization that empowers the homeless by giving them both a new perspective on the way they see themselves and a welcome break from daily problems.
Iraqi Soccer Champ Fears for His Life
Jul 30, 2007 One might expect that Iraqi soccer star Younis Mahmoud (pictured, center), who scored the winning goal for his country in Sunday's Asian Cup finals game against Saudi Arabia, would have a hero's welcome waiting for him at home. Instead, Mahmoud plans to steer clear of his country for fear of being killed, and he voices the hope that American troops will withdraw as soon as possible.
Iraqis Celebrate Asian Cup Win
Jul 29, 2007 At least some of the gunfire heard in Baghdad on Sunday was celebratory, for a change: Jubilant Iraqis flouted a government ban by firing shots into the air following Iraq's 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in the final match of the Asian Cup soccer tournament.
Car Bombs Target Soccer Celebration
Jul 26, 2007 Multiple car bombings killed at least 50 Iraqis in Baghdad on Wednesday as thousands celebrated a victory in the Asian Cup that advanced Iraq to the finals for the first time.
The Oliver Stone of Iran
Apr 25, 2007 The veteran journalist and Mideast traveler profiles Jafar Panahi (above), whose socially conscious films have earned him critical acclaim, box-office success and the unwelcome scrutiny of his government.
Head-Butting Soccer Star: Opponent Insulted My Family
Jul 13, 2006 According to the AP: "Zinedine Zidane apologized for head-butting an Italian opponent during the World Cup final, saying Wednesday that he was provoked by harsh insults about his mother and sister." Watch the interview (in French, no subtitles)Will Racism Bring Violence to World Cup?
Jun 4, 2006 Soccer fans mocked with monkey noises and spit on Nigerian forward Adebowale Ogungbure as he left a soccer field in Germany in late March. It sounds like a story from another decade, but this type of violent racism might just destroy this year's World Cup. The NYT offers a must-read piece about the recent surge in racist sentiment among European soccer fans.
