FIFA World Cup Soccer | Germany | June 9 - July 9

Degree of Difficulty

After making the 2002 quarterfinals, the U.S. team comes into the World Cup in Germany with confidence. But challenges await.

• Group Capsules (PDF): A  |  B  |  C  |  D  |  E  |  F  |  G  |  H

Beasley Stays on His Toes

DaMarcus Beasley, one of the most dynamic U.S. players to emerge in the last decade, is eager to find out where he will be starting in the midfield, or if he will be starting at all.

Dempsey Finds Niche

Whether playing on the right wing or in central midfield, Clint Dempsey's impulsive moves and clever footwork are capable of baffling opposing defenders and his own coaches.

Reyna Brings Order

Like his subtle contributions on the field during the course of a match, national team captain Claudio Reyna has had an understated impact on soccer's growth in the United States.

Onyewu Stands Out

Oguchi Onyewu, who attended Sherwood High School, is one of the most feared defenders in only his second season with club team Standard Liege of the Belgian league.

Soccer's Latest Opportunity

The United States has arrived at its quadrennial opportunity for soccer to siphon some of the buzz created by the drama of the World Cup.

'Crazy' St. Pauli

St. Pauli, a poor third-division German club has attracted a fanatical following by opening its tattooed arms to free spirits, left-wingers, outcasts, punks, dockworkers, the homeless and transvestites.

Scandal Rocks Italy

Under a cloud of corruption and controversy, Italian soccer is reeling as investigators look into match-fixing that has spread throughout Serie A.