Informational/Did You Know

Your Complete Guide To The 2017 Summer Soccer Schedule

Here it is: your complete guide to the 2017 summer soccer schedule. 

For most sports, the offseason is a time of respite. Once the Super Bowl ends in February, NFL teams don’t suit up for another game, scrimmage or otherwise, for six months. Soccer, fortunately, doesn’t abide by such silly rules.

The European soccer season technically ends after the Champions League final around late May or early June, but preseason exhibitions pick up in early July. Then there are also international matches (friendlies and cups) to also fill the void. 

The18's Remarkable Review Of The Most Recent Season Of All-Time

Are you wondering who did what to who with what and when and where? You’ve come to the right place. The18’s decidedly polarizing staff is here to run the rule over the 2016-17 European season, and you won’t believe what Sam Klomhaus has to say. Sit back and enjoy our review of the most recent season yet. 

Can Cameroon Build on AFCON Success?

History and Background

Cameroon may be the giants of Africa, with up to five African Cup of Nations titles — the second most successful nation in the tournament — and seven appearances in the World Cup — the most from an African team. However, they have failed to replicate that success on the world stage. 

Their second ever appearance at the World Cup was a magical one, as they narrowly fell to England in the quarterfinals of the 1990 edition. But apart from that, they have failed to even get out of the group stage in their other six appearances. 

How Nations Qualify For The World Cup

We’re less than a year away from the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but only eight teams have assured themselves of a spot in the 32-team tournament, one of them being the host nation.

Qualifying began back in March 2015 and will continue through this November, when the final berths will be booked. 

How does each confederation decide which nations will attend the World Cup? Read on. 

Africa (CAF)

Nations: 53

Spots: 5

Rounds: 3

Why The World Cup Trophy Is By Far And Away The Most Valuable In All Of Sports

When it comes down to the raw material value of the most iconic trophies in sports, nothing comes close to the authentic FIFA World Cup Trophy. Standing at 14.5 inches, weighing 13.6 pounds and made up of 18-karat gold and semi-precious malachite, the one-of-a-kind World Cup Trophy has a value of $20,000,000.

How much is the World Cup Trophy worth

Why Did Juventus Receive More Champions League Money Than Real Madrid?

With their 4-1 win on Saturday, Real Madrid took home the Champions League trophy for the second straight time (and third in four years), making them the footballing kings of Europe. In spite of this, they won’t be the team taking home the most prize money from this year’s competition. That title belongs to their final counterparts, Juventus.

What Are The Odds Of Newly Promoted Teams Staying In The Premier League?

With the 2016-17 Premier League season in the books, we now know what the league will look like next year. Relegated to the English Championship are Hull City, Middlesbrough and Sunderland. The three promoted sides include newcomers Brighton and Huddersfield and established EPL side Newcastle United.

A Behind The Scenes Look At Estadio Chivas Before Tonight's Liga MX Final

In anticipation of Sunday night’s Liga MX final second leg at Estadio Chivas, we spoke with Jose Maria Aldrete Gonzalez, Facility and Turf Manager for the building and a member of the Sports Turf Managers Association.

Originally employed as an architect during the construction of the stadium, which opened in 2010, Aldrete has continued in his new role since that time, including overseeing the transition from an artificial playing surface to natural grass at the behest of Johan Cruyff in 2012. 

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