The World Cup is international soccer's championship tournament, and it rules the global sports stage. Award-winning author Matt Doeden explores the history of international soccer and covers the World Cup's greatest moments, from the Save of the Century to Diego Maradona's Hand of God goal to the United States Women's National Team's dominance. The most shocking goals, the greatest upsets, and the fun and fanfare of soccer's biggest event are all here.

Introduction: world dominance -- From politics to Pelé: the road to the World Cup -- Heroics and heartbreak: Memorabnle matches and moments of the World Cup -- A worldwide celebration: the culture of the World Cup -- The future of the World Cup.