By Randy Capps
Later this month, the world will watch as the World Cup plays out in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. As a purveyor of the beautiful game, I always welcome the influx of casual soccer fans that pop up for these tournaments.
In the spirit of being accommodating, here is a basic primer to help you get into the tournament.
Format — For the first time, 48 teams will compete for the Jules Rimet Trophy, named after the FIFA president who helped set up the first tournament back in 1930. The teams will be split into 12 groups of four, and the top two teams from each group — as well as the top eight third-place finishers — will advance to the 32-team knockout phase. From there, it’s a single-elimination event.
Who’s good? — The usual suspects. France, Spain, Argentina, England, Portugal and Brazil are the top six teams in the latest FIFA rankings, and that’s a good group from which to pick a potential winner. The U.S. (16), Canada (30) and Mexico (15) are co-hosts, and are among the teams looking to make a surprise run.
Players to watch — Even the most agnostic sports fan has probably heard of Lionel Messi, who will be making (perhaps) his last run with Argentina or Cristiano Ronaldo who might also (perhaps) be making his last bow for Portugal. For America, Christian Pulisic is the most accomplished male player in history while Mexico’s Santiago Giménez could also be one to watch. Fun fact: those two play together at AC Milan.
How to watch — FOX has the English-speaking rights, and will carry 70 matches on the main channel and another 34 on FS1. Telemundo is the Spanish provider (switch over for the amazing “GOL” calls).
So, can you explain the offside rule? — Sure. In order to receive a forward pass from open play in the attacking half of the pitch, there must be two defenders between the receiving player and the opposing goal. One of those is almost always the goalkeeper, and you can pass laterally or backwards to anyone.
Enjoy the tournament, everyone!
