Soccer

It was supposed to be a simple exhibition soccer game Saturday in Jerusalem. But after Argentina cancelled it, the would-be friendly has instead become the centerpiece of some international hostility.

The bronze depiction of the U.S. soccer legend called to mind Jimmy Carter, Eleanor Roosevelt and Gary Busey. Chastain took it in stride: "It's not the most flattering, but it's nice."

Protests have raged across Ethiopia for three years — and they're spilling over to the country's favorite sport.

Protests have raged across Ethiopia for three years — and they're spilling over to the country's favorite sport.

The governing body has been in turmoil since the U.S. men's team failed to qualify for this year's World Cup finals for the first time since 1986.

For the first time in 70 years, the country will transfer power from one elected president to another. Many Liberians identify with Weah, who grew up poor before becoming a top striker in Europe.

When Robert Hakiza was a boy, he used to play soccer with kids regardless of their ethnicity. Could the sport help cut through ethnic tensions at a refugee camp in Uganda?

Spain will play Portugal, France will play Peru, and Brazil will play Switzerland — but the draw for the Russian-hosted tournament lacks an obviously imposing group.

Slide over, Americans: You've got company on the sidelines of the 2018 World Cup. A draw with Sweden denied the four-time world champs a bid, leaving Italians to grapple with "the apocalypse."

The keeper for Salford City FC apologized after the match, saying he was "in a very uncomfortable position."

U.S. Soccer is likely to lose out on tens of millions in revenue, and more dual-nationals may choose to play elsewhere. Fox Sports' $425-million payout to air the next two World Cups looks rough, too.

Mili Hernandez and her Omaha, Neb., soccer team were disqualified from a girls' tournament finals after a mix-up over her gender. "They only did it because I look like a boy," the 8-year-old said.