U.S. Soccer Ties World Cup Prize Money to Equal Pay Fight

Seeking a new way out of a costly legal battle, U.S. Soccer’s president asked the men’s and women’s teams to enter collective negotiations on equalizing World Cup bonuses.

For U.S. Men’s Team, Win Salvages a Week They’d Rather Forget

Illnesses, injuries and a suspension marred the start of World Cup qualifying. A trip to Honduras offered a chance to right the ship.

From Afghanistan to the World Cup, Tiny, Wealthy Qatar Steps Up

The Gulf state played a major role in the American airlift, the latest evidence of the small but gas-rich country punching above its weight on the world stage.

For U.S. Men, Two Games and No Wins Add Up to Concern

After settling for disappointing draws in its first two World Cup qualifiers, the U.S. men’s soccer team heads to Honduras in search of answers, and its first victory.

Brazil-Argentina Match Stopped After Health Officials Storm Field

After a disagreement about quarantine rules, a high-profile match was interrupted by government officials seeking to deport four Argentine players.

In Gap Between Rich and Poor, Everton’s Women See an Opening

A series of changes, big and small, has a strengthened Everton believing it can hold its own with deep-pocketed rivals in England’s Women’s Super League.

A Fan Wanted a Better Team to Cheer. So He Found It Better Players.

The revival of El Salvador’s soccer team is a tribute to better organization, coaching and talent. But it also owes a debt to a fan with a gift for scouting.

Soccer’s New Rich Leave the Old Guard Looking Beleaguered

European soccer’s summer trading window closed this week, with teams backed by nation states and the super rich cementing their dominance.

Chelsea Proves a Point While Collecting One at Liverpool

A red card put Chelsea to the test, but a draw won with control, composure and calm felt like much more.

Messi, Mbappé and Running Out the Clock

Lionel Messi moved to P.S.G. because Barcelona couldn’t stop him. Kylian Mbappé may have to stay put because his club holds all the leverage.

Ronaldo’s Return to Manchester United Is Nostalgic Pragmatism

After flirting with joining Manchester City, Cristiano Ronaldo will instead head back to the team where he became a star. The reality is, almost no other club could afford him.

What’s the Endgame in the M.L.S.-Liga MX Alliance?

Wednesday’s M.L.S. All-Star Game was the latest collaboration between the top leagues in the U.S. and Mexico. Owners and executives see profit in their partnership, and say both sides can win.

Premier League Won’t Release Some Players for September World Cup Qualifiers

The decision sets up a confrontation with FIFA, which can order the players’ release. Spain’s league said it would support any of its teams that followed suit.

FIFA, Deemed a Victim of Its Own Scandal, Will Share $200 Million Payout

Soccer’s governing body and two affiliates in the Americas have been awarded tens of millions of dollars seized by the Department of Justice.

The Parable of Inter Milan

Fast money from China led a storied team back to the top of Italian soccer. Now the money has dried up, and its title-winning squad is breaking apart.

A 17-year-old Afghan soccer player died falling from a U.S. evacuation plane.

Frantic to flee the Taliban, Zaki Anwari joined a desperate crush at the Kabul airport. “He had no hope and wanted a better life,” a sports official said.

Scottish Soccer’s Brexit Problem: No Way In, and No Way Out

Boxed in by stricter rules for imported players and rising prices for British ones, Scotland’s clubs may struggle to stay competitive.

UEFA Plans $7 Billion Pandemic Relief Fund for Clubs

European soccer’s governing body will give cash-strapped teams access to their future earnings from club competitions like the Champions League.