Soccer, explained for people who don't watch soccer.

The World Cup is on. Here's everything you need to know about soccer — in plain English.

How does soccer work?

90 minutes, two teams, one ball — the complete beginner's guide to the game.

The #1 most confusing thing in soccer, explained simply.

48 teams, 12 groups, and one eventual winner.

Live tools

Match Time Converter

When is the game? Auto-converts kickoff times to your timezone.

Group Stage Standings

Live standings for all 12 groups, updated every 10 minutes.

The basics

What do yellow and red cards mean?

Warning, ejection, and what happens to the team.

Why doesn't the clock stop?

Stoppage time explained, and how it differs from extra time.

What is a penalty shootout?

Five kicks, sudden death, and why it feels like a coin flip.

American soccer glossary

"Nil," "pitch," "clean sheet" — terms you'll hear on TV.

Soccer positions explained

Goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders, forwards — what each role actually does.

World Cup 2026

Who is hosting the World Cup?

The US, Canada, and Mexico — 16 cities, one final in NJ.

How many teams are in it?

48 countries, up from 32. Here's how they qualified.

When does the World Cup end?

The final is July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium.

Shareable explainer

One-page visual guide to the whole game — designed to share.