NEWS ABOUT: FIFA
FIFA stories: 8 news briefs
analysis
Critics hushed by successful Confederations Cup
GlobalPost Jul 1, 09 4:50 PM CDT
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With the just-completed Confederations Cup a success, South Africa has passed its dress rehearsal for the 2010 World Cup, Nicolas Brulliard writes for GlobalPost. The African nation faced more scrutiny than any previous host, but that now appears overblown. Enthusiastic fans turned up despite the winter chill, and the nation’s high crime rate didn’t affect the games. The main drawback was Johannesburg’s poor public transportation.
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OPINION
Underdog US team's surprise win over Spain is a victory to be savored
New York Times Jun 25, 09 1:55 AM CDT
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Last night's stunning soccer victory over Spain by the US team ranks up there with 1980's "Miracle on Ice" Olympic defeat of the Russians as one of the greatest upsets ever pulled off by Americans, George Vecsey writes in the New York Times . The Confederations Cup victory over the world's top-ranked soccer team may not transform the US into a soccer powerhouse overnight, but the defeat made it a thrilling spectacle, notes Vecsey.
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But is it just an opiate for the masses?
Wall Street Journal Jun 23, 09 11:04 AM CDT
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Myanmar has had something to cheer about lately, the Wall Street Journal reports. In a country where gatherings of more than five people are officially illegal and free speech is nonexistent, the Myanmar National League has been drawing huge crowds of screaming fans. Launched in May, it’s the country’s first pro soccer league, and fans love it. But critics say it’s just a junta ploy to distract the masses.
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New York Times Apr 14, 09 12:17 PM CDT
(Newser Summary) -
President Obama is jumping into a new kind of global politics. An ardent advocate of Chicago’s 2016 Olympic bid, Obama is now pushing hard to bring the World Cup to America in 2018 or 2022, the New York Times reports. Obama recently wrote personally to the president of soccer’s governing body, urging it to pick the US when it gathers in December 2010.
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Brazilian companies bank on young talent
New York Times Jul 19, 08 8:59 AM CDT
(Newser Summary) -
The hottest new commodity in Brazil is its soccer stars, and investors are taking note. Companies like Traffic are buying up the contracts of the next wave of potential Ronaldinhos and then lending their acquisitions out to poor but visible Brazilian teams. When European leagues come knocking with huge offers, the investors then cash in, explains the New York Times.
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After US goalie's outburst, team rethinks the need for unity
Sports Illustrated Jun 26, 08 12:22 PM CDT
(Newser Summary) -
Hope Solo's infamous criticism of her coach got her booted from practice and competition at the end of last year's World Cup, and depression almost kept the 26-year-old from returning to soccer at all. But now the US team has a new coach, a rejuvenated Solo, and a fresh plan for winning in Beijing, Sports Illustrated reports.
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Brazilian beats out star players from Portugal and Argentina
BBC Dec 18, 07 6:49 AM CST
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Brazilian soccer sensation Kaka is FIFA's World Player of the Year, the eighth time since 1991 a Brazilian player has claimed the honor. The 25-year-old midfielder led AC Milan to the title in the Champions league this year with 10 goals, the BBC reports. "It's really special for me—it was a dream for me just to play for Sao Paulo and one game for Brazil," he said.
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Agreement covers issues including players' rights and transfers
Reuters Oct 12, 07 11:11 AM CDT
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European soccer's governing body UEFA and the players' union FIFPro signed an agreement Thursday covering areas such as contract transfers and players' rights of employment. The deal should prevent another Bosman ruling, the landmark 1995 decision in which the European Court of Justice gave athletes more freedom to change clubs.
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