Author: Matt Reed

Gaming

The 37 Best ‘FIFA’ Games, Ranked

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date December 12, 2023

Soccer fans across the globe unite annually with the release of the FIFA video game series and these are the best FIFA games ranked from best to worst. For over two decades, FIFA has become a staple in the gaming community for passionate and casual soccer supporters alike.

The series debuted in 1993 with the title FIFA International Soccer but two years later it was quickly given the FIFA moniker that stuck. There have been variations of the game over the years that typically allow players to compete as their favorite players and club teams. These include those from around Europe, North and South America, and other parts of the world.

FIFA has also given players the chance to utilize national teams through their normal game modes, and in some cases, created separate games specifically for World Cups. In 2005, Electronic Arts also debuted the FIFA Street series which shed some light on the street soccer community and offered players the chance to compete in different areas of the world.

When Did ‘FIFA 24’ Come Out?

FIFA games over the years have typically been released to the public in September of each year in different windows. Fans can purchase different packages or variations of the game based on online play or get early access through EA Play. “FIFA 24” wasn’t the title of this game, however.

In 2023, FIFA adopted the new name of EA Sports FC after the long-time partnership between Electronic Arts and the global governing soccer body came to an end. On September 29, 2023, EA Sports FC 24 was released into the wild. Today, ONE37m is looking back at the best FIFA games ranked from best to worst since the series began nearly 30 years ago.

1. ‘FIFA Soccer 13’

Released in 2012

EA Sports

Playable On: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, iOS
Metacritic Metascore: 90

This was the first FIFA game where users could utilize the Kinect sensor on Xbox 360 and Playstation Move on PlayStation 3. It also allowed gamers to use the “First Touch” control method.

Buy Now, $25

https://amzn.to/3v9Jmmz

2. ‘FIFA 14’

Released in 2013

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita, Xbox 360, Xbox One Nintendo Wii, Nintendo 3DS, and Microsoft Windows
Metacritic Metascore: 90

Lionel Messi and Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez appeared on the covers of this FIFA release and this game received huge recognition. In FIFA’s “Ultimate Team” mode, the game introduced “Legends” including huge superstars like Ruud Gullit, Pele, and George Weah.

Buy Now, $49.99

https://amzn.to/3FQTp4L

3. ‘FIFA Soccer 10’

Released in 2009

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo Wii, and mobile
Metacritic Metascore: 90

“Virtual Pro” mode became an important addition to FIFA by allowing gamers to create a player and then take them through “Be a Pro” seasons.

Buy Now, $17

https://amzn.to/3jmggh9

4. ‘FIFA Soccer 12’

Released in 2011

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii; on handhelds for PlayStation Portable, Nintendo 3DS, Xperia Play, Android, and iOS
Metacritic Metascore: 90

This game introduced a more enhanced defending strategy with “Tactical Defending,” which was well received. This installment also gave online play a lot more meaning with gamers being able to play “Head to Head.” There was also an add-on for Euro 2012 in this game.

Buy Now, $5.95

https://amzn.to/3HSGL8h

5. ‘FIFA Soccer 11’

Released in 2010

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, iOS, Android, PlayStation Portable
Metacritic Metascore: 88

FIFA introduced 360-degree dribbling, which became a more natural way for players to show off their skills. This game also had one of the best FIFA soundtracks to date with songs like “White Picket Fences,” “Blackout,” and “Can’t Sleep.”

Buy Now, $23.63

https://amzn.to/3BUFk5n

6. ‘FIFA Soccer 09’

Released in 2008

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, Nintendo DS, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Wii, Xbox 360, and Zeebo
Metacritic Metascore: 87

Nothing was bigger in FIFA 09 than the introduction of the Ultimate Team mode, which allowed players to compete online and build their custom squads by accumulating coins and completing challenges.

Buy Now, $15.47

https://amzn.to/3WxOn3S

7. ‘FIFA World Cup 98’

Released in 1998

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, Nintendo 64, Sega Saturn, Game Boy, Mega Drive/Sega Genesis, SNES
User Score: 8.6

This was the first time every national team was included in a game ahead of a World Cup. FIFA didn’t try to replicate this again until the 2010 edition when the World Cup went to South Africa.

Buy Now, Price Varies

https://amzn.to/3HWgVQA

8. ‘FIFA 17’

Released in 2016

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One
Metacritic Metascore: 84

“The Journey” was a huge success in this game with the playable character Alex Hunter. He was later brought back in future installments of this career mode.

Buy Now, $12.99

https://amzn.to/3FNTR3V

9. ‘FIFA 16’

Released in 2015

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Android, and iOS
Metacritic Metascore: 84

This game has 78 stadiums, including the addition of Portsmouth venue Fratton Park.

Buy Now, $21.10

https://amzn.to/3PJUgJj

10. ‘FIFA 18’

Released in 2017

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
Metacritic Metascore: 84

Alex Hunter’s path continued in The Journey as he headed to the LA Galaxy team this time around. This was a cool addition to the game that was a spin-off of career modes.

Buy Now, $11.90

https://amzn.to/3FQYhqz

11. ‘FIFA Soccer 2004’

Released in 2003

EA Sports

Playable On: Nintendo GameCube, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, and Xbox
Metacritic Metascore: 84

This FIFA allowed players to take lower division teams and try to carry them to promotion throughout countries like England.

Buy Now, $13.24

https://amzn.to/3PKIDSr

12. ‘2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa’

Released in 2010

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PlayStation Portable, Wii, iOS
Metacritic Metascore: 83

This was a game-changing installment of FIFA because it introduced the World Cup on a much larger scale after a long layoff in 1998. You could play as the 32 teams that qualified for the South Africa World Cup or introduce your country into the mix. There were also playable situations that mimicked famous qualifying moments leading up to the World Cup.

Buy Now, $49.99

https://amzn.to/3hMjGJD

13. ‘FIFA 2001’

Released in 2000

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 2, PlayStation, and Microsoft Windows
Metacritic Metascore: 83

There were two variations of this game for North America and the rest of the world, with a Major League Soccer version in the U.S.

Buy Now, $33.88

https://www.amazon.com/FIFA-2001-League-Sony-PlayStation-2/dp/B00004U5VU/ref=sr_1_2?crid=3VZZUPSU3TTBD&keywords=fifa+2001&qid=1671730262&sprefix=fifa+2001%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-2

14. ‘FIFA 19’

Released in 2018

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Microsoft Windows
Metacritic Metascore: 83

The big addition to FIFA this year was the game’s rights to the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Super Cup. This game also had an update for the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which was a huge step for the U.S. Women’s National Team.

Buy Now, $17.99

https://amzn.to/3FRz6UU

15. ‘FIFA 08 Soccer’

Released in 2007

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable, Game Boy Advance, and mobile phones
Metacritic Metascore: 82

“Manager Mode” was one of the bigger additions to this game.

Buy Now, $22.05

https://amzn.to/3VrvEGA

16. ‘FIFA 15’

Released in 2014

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo 3DS, Wii, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, iOS, Android, and Windows Phone
Metacritic Metascore: 82

FIFA’s Ultimate Team introduced a few new cool integrations including Concept Squad which lets players see what their teams would look like without buying their team.

Buy Now, $14.49

https://amzn.to/3WB4HRI

17. ‘FIFA 2002’

Released in 2001

EA Sports

Playable On: GameCube, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, and Xbox
Metacritic Metascore: 82

Thierry Henry was the lone cover star in this FIFA and they introduced power bars for passes and shots.

Buy Now, $26.27

https://amzn.to/3WkDGCi

18. ‘FIFA Football 2005’

Released in 2004

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation, PlayStation 2, Microsoft Windows, Xbox, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo GameCube, Game Boy Advance
Metacritic Metascore: 81

This game introduced fans to Liga MX – Mexico’s top flight – in its entirety for the first time in FIFA’s history. FIFA also brought back the “Create-a-Player” mode and installed a 15-season career mode.

Buy Now, $17.08

https://amzn.to/3PPaP6x

19. ‘FIFA Soccer 06’

Released in 2005

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo DS, PlayStation Portable, Game Boy Advance, and mobile phones
Metacritic Metascore: 80

This is one of the best FIFA games that just so happens to feature soccer legends Ronaldinho and Wayne Rooney on its iconic game cover. FIFA 06 Soccer’s “Lounge” also became a big hit with “Winner Stays On” mode and its different variations of multiplayer soccer challenges.

Buy Now, $25.98

https://amzn.to/3GerhKq

20. ‘FIFA 06: Road to FIFA World Cup’

Released in 2005

EA Sports

Playable On: Game Boy Advance, Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2 and Xbox, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo DS, and Xbox 360
Metacritic Metascore: 80

This game featured 127 national teams, including the 32 competing at the World Cup in Germany this year.

Buy Now, $22.01

https://amzn.to/3HX6o7W

21. ‘FIFA 20’

Released in 2019

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch
Metacritic Metascore: 79

“Volta Football” was introduced as FIFA’s ode to FIFA Street games of the past. It allowed players to compete in different worldwide settings like Miami and other cities that have big street soccer cultures.

Buy Now, $6.94

https://amzn.to/3hMnKcR

22. ‘FIFA Soccer 96’

Released in 1995

EA Sports

Playable On: Sega Saturn, Game Boy, Sega Saturn, PlayStation, 32X, and DOS
Metacritic Metascore/User Score: N/A

This was a game-changing soccer video game with the “Virtual Stadium” technology. FIFA Soccer 96 has always been considered one of the greatest soccer games ever created.

Buy Now, $59.95

https://www.amazon.com/FIFA-Soccer-96-Nintendo-Super-NES/dp/B000035Y6Y/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1HAU4RT7DTIUH&keywords=fifa+96&qid=1671730320&sprefix=fifa+9%2Caps%2C201&sr=8-2

23. ‘FIFA 99’

Released in 1998

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, and Nintendo 64
User Score: 7.9

This was the first time graphics became noticeably better in FIFA. The “European Dream League” lets gamers play as the best in Europe in a newly-formed club competition. This featured the 20 best teams in a domestic league-style format.

Buy Now, $49.99

https://amzn.to/3YDB9Vr

24. ‘FIFA 2000: Major League Soccer’

Released in 1999

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, Game Boy Color, and PlayStation
User Score: 7.9

The “Major League Soccer” teams and players were introduced in this game after the league began back in 1996.

Buy Now, Price Varies

https://amzn.to/3GdU5Tm

25. ‘FIFA 22’

Released in 2021

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S
Metacritic Metascore: 78

Kylian Mbappe served as the cover athlete for this FIFA release.

Buy Now, $17.34

https://amzn.to/3BVaPMI

26. ‘FIFA Street’

Released in 2005

EA Sports BIG

Playable On: PlayStation 2, Xbox, and Nintendo GameCube
Metacritic Metascore: 77

Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho were two of the biggest names included in this spin-off of FIFA.

Buy Now, $35

https://amzn.to/3hS20MF

27. ‘FIFA 23’

Released in 2022

EA Sports

Playable On: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S
Metacritic Metascore: 76

This is the final installment of the FIFA series before the game’s licensing agreement with the global body ends in 2022. There was also a download in the game for players to play World Cup mode ahead of the Qatar World Cup.

Buy Now, $44

https://amzn.to/3Gd282H

28. ‘2002 FIFA World Cup’

Released in 2001

EA Sports

Playable On: Nintendo GameCube, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation, PlayStation 2, and Xbox
Metacritic Metascore: 73

There were 41 national teams in this game, including all the countries that qualified for the World Cup in Japan and South Korea.

Buy Now, $20.80

https://amzn.to/3FRQAQW

29. ‘2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil’

Released in 2014

EA Sports

Playable On: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One, and Xbox 360
Metacritic Metascore: 73

This game had the most national teams ever in a World Cup game with over 200. The “Road to Rio de Janeiro” mode allowed players the chance to run through the qualification process before reaching the World Cup.

Buy Now, $17.50

https://amzn.to/3jkGbWy

30. ‘FIFA 07’

Released in 2006

EA Sports

Playable On: Nintendo GameCube, Xbox, Game Boy Advance, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, and Nintendo DS
Metacritic Metascore: 73

This game featured 27 leagues across the globe, including a specialized “Rest of the World” league that features other notable clubs from around the globe.

Buy Now, $25.30

https://www.amazon.com/FIFA-Soccer-07-Xbox/dp/B000GPVULC/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=22BQEZNIHQ2FH&keywords=fifa+07&qid=1671733955&sprefix=fifa+07%2Caps%2C159&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid=A1AIVRBZSN2D48&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEySzVWRk1GT1dFV1NFJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMTM3NTYzMklCMFNYUVNNUTFIUyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMzgyNjkzMkQ1WFZENTBaWUVWMyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

31. ‘FIFA 21’

Released in 2020

EA Sports

Playable On: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One
Metacritic Metascore: 72

In a lot of ways, this game disappointed, especially with Juventus, Roma, River Plate, and Boca Juniors not having their names included due to rights issues. This game featured several new soccer icons such as Ferenc Puskas, Xavi, and Petr Cech.

Buy Now, $14.10

https://amzn.to/3Voo7YJ

32. ‘FIFA Street 3’

Released in 2008

EA Sports BIG

Playable On: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Nintendo DS
Metacritic Metascore: 63

FIFA Street mimics other EA Sports BIG series like NFL Street and NBA Street with crazy skill moves and intense graphics.

Buy Now, $18.95

https://amzn.to/3hSYhym

33. ‘FIFA Street 2’

Released in 2006

EA Sports BIG

Playable On: Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo DS, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Xbox, and mobile phones
Metacritic Metascore: 63

Game modes like “Rule the Streets” allowed fans to play with their favorite stars or create players from scratch and increase their abilities through challenges.

Buy Now, $44.99

https://www.amazon.com/FIFA-Street-2-PlayStation/dp/B000DZJFYY/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1OLGRI09U85NM&keywords=fifa+street+2&qid=1671733886&sprefix=fifa+street+2%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1

34. ‘FIFA Mobile Soccer’

Released in 2016

EA Sports

Playable On: iOS, Android, Microsoft Windows
Metacritic Metascore: 60

The mobile games weren’t as well received because there were fewer game modes and controls were difficult to handle.

Download Now, Free-to-Play

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/fifa-mobile-fifa-world-cup/id1094930513

35. ‘FIFA Soccer 97’

Released in 1996

EA Sports

Playable On: PC, PlayStation, SNES, Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, and Sega Saturn
User Score: 5.6

In a lot of ways, this game was cool because it offered gamers the chance to add real players to different teams. However, this was only in “Kick Off” mode.

Buy Now, $64.99

https://amzn.to/3BXjKNH

36. ‘FIFA Soccer 95’

Released in 1994

EA Sports

Playable On: Sega Genesis, PlayStation
Metacritic Metascore/User Score: N/A

This was the first game where European club teams were added, including Premier League and La Liga sides.

Buy Now, Price Varies

https://www.amazon.com/FIFA-Soccer-95-Sega-Genesis/dp/B00002ST9H/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AKSONGD2Y1OI&keywords=fifa+95&qid=1671730345&sprefix=fifa+96%2Caps%2C653&sr=8-1

37. ‘FIFA International Soccer’

Released in 1993

EA Sports

Playable On: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis
Metacritic Metascore: N/A

The OG FIFA debuted in time for World Cup 1994 in the United States and featured over 100 countries. Unfortunately, the camera views were limited to overhead.

Buy Now, $19.99

https://amzn.to/3WFvSKY

Tags FIFA, FIFA World Cup, Gaming, proper football

Sports

Teams Promoted to the Premier League in 2023

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date June 30, 2023

Three lucky teams get to join the best league in the world each year, but which are set to get promoted to the Premier League in 2023. Let’s talk about it!

The Premier League consists of almost 10 months of play on the pitch with 38 matches to decide a champion. One of the most interesting aspects of football is promotion and relegation, which decides the fate of clubs on a yearly basis.

For some, it’s the chance to rise to the best ranks of a national football league, while others drop down and have to fight twice as hard to regain their status. Sometimes, these races come down to the final matchdays and create intense drama both financially and emotionally.

Pro/rel is common in more foreign countries, especially in Europe, where promotion playoffs have become a huge talking point for clubs and their supporters.

Joe Giddens/PA Images via Getty Images

Last season, Luton Town captured the third promotion place after winning the playoff and moving into the Premier League for the very first time.

These are the three promoted teams to Premier League for next season, including a newcomer with a long history.

2023 Promoted Clubs

Burnley

Record (Last season): 29-14-3, 101 points, +52 GD

Winners of the EFL Championship

Club Created: May 1882

Last Premier League Trip: 2021/22 season, finished 18th

Burnley have been a Premier League mainstay for years, and they’re back in the first division after a dominant season. Manager Vincent Kompany helped the club break the 100-point barrier in the Championship, losing just three matches all year. Meanwhile, the Clarets are known for their defensive prowess after allowing just 35 goals in 46 matches last season.

Burnley are one of just five clubs that have ever completed the quadruple of winning all four of the major divisions in England’s football pyramid. That includes the Premier League, EFL Championship, EFL League One and EFL League Two.

Of the three promoted teams in Premier League next season, Burnley will definitely have the best shot at success given their squad.

Luton Town

Record (Last season): 21-17-8, 80 points, +18 GD

Club Created: April 1885

Last Premier League Trip: Never competed in the Premier League

The Hatters will be the talk of the Premier League this season as they make their first trip up to England’s top division. Luton play at one of the smallest venues for a top-tier side known as Kenilworth Road, which seats about 11,000 supporters. The venue is located on a residential street, where fans actually have to go through homes to enter the main gate of the stadium.

Joe Giddens/PA Images via Getty Images

Luton dramatically closed out matches against Sunderland and Coventry City in the EFL Championship promotion playoffs. That includes a 6-5 penalty kicks victory in the playoff final, which granted Luton the trip to the Premier League.

Sheffield United

Record (Last season): 28-7-11, 91 points, +34 GD

Club Created: March 1889

Last Premier League Trip: 2020-21, finished 20th

Sheffield United have been around over 130 years, but their only First Division title came back in 1898. The Blades have had a rocky road over the past several seasons, bouncing around from the Premier League to the Championship and down to League One at times.

The club returns to the top flight in 2023 and hopes to have a little more staying power this time as the league gets stronger.

2023 Relegated Clubs

Leicester City

Club Created: 1884

Years in Premier League: Since 2014-15 season, 9 seasons

Record (Last season): 9-7-22, 34 points, -17 GD

Leicester became the darlings of the Premier League when they came up in 2014. The Foxes hadn’t competed in the top flight in almost a decade and had to fend off relegation immediately after their arrival.

Michael Regan/Getty Images

That was until they discovered talents like N’Golo Kante, Riyad Mahrez and Jamie Vardy before winning the Premier League. It was one of the most improbable title wins in the sport’s history, with the Foxes having +5000 odds to capture the Premier League before the 2015-16 season.

Leeds United

Club Created: October 1919

Years in Premier League: Since 2020-21 season, 3 seasons

Record (Last season): 7-10-21, 31 points, -30 GD

Leeds are a historic English side that returned to the Premier League three years ago. Unfortunately the club’s lack of stability with managers and players created a tough road for staying up.

James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images

Last season, the squad featured several key U.S. Men’s National Team stars like Tyler Adams, Brenden Aaronson and Weston McKennie.

Leeds were three-time winners of England’s top flight, but their last victory came back in 1992.

Southampton

Club Created: November 1885

Years in Premier League: Since 2012-13 season, 11 seasons

Record (Last season): 6-7-25, 25 points, -35 GD

Southampton’s relegation comes as a bit of a surprise considering how long the club has been able to find success over the past decade. The Saints have become a prime club in terms of scouting and developing talent throughout the years. That includes selling future stars like Sadio Mane and Virgil van Dijk for significant fees to help sustain the organization.

After 11 seasons though, Southampton will be in a new position as they look to find success in the Championship and return to the Premier League in 2024.

Tags Premier League, proper football

Sports

When Was Lionel Messi’s Best Season Ever?

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date June 27, 2023

So, you’re wondering when was Lionel Messi’s best season? Let’s talk about it!

Messi began his career in his home country of Argentina before joining renowned Spanish club Barcelona at the age of 13, when he came to their youth side. For the better part of two decades the Argentina star dominated European football.

The World Cup winner captured every major trophy imaginable after breaking into Barcelona’s senior side, including various La Liga, UEFA Champions League and FIFA Club World Cup triumphs.

Here, I’ll break down Lionel Messi’s best season, the 2011/2012 campaign when the South American set the world ablaze with his success for club and country.

Messi’s Historic 2011/12 Season

Victor Fraile/Getty Images

Messi and Barcelona became synonymous with one another during their tenure together from the early 2000’s through 2021, when he left for Paris Saint-Germain.

The seven-time France Football Ballon d’Or winner finished his time in Spain with 10 seasons where he finished with 40 or more goals in all competitions.

His best season though? Messi scored 73 club goals in 2011/12, the most of any player in the history of football during a single campaign. Of those 73 goals, Messi managed to break the La Liga record (50), averaging over 1.26 goals per match.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Argentine’s year was how clutch he was for Barcelona throughout the campaign. A football match can be broken down into six 15-minute increments. During that final period of minutes 76 through 90 – when a game becomes the most intense – Messi came up big.

The superstar finished the year with 19 goals during that period which helped Barca finish the La Liga season with a +85 goal difference. They cracked the 90-point barrier despite finishing second to Real Madrid.

That said, Messi didn’t just show up on the club scene after balling out for Argentina throughout the year. In 2012, Messi scored 12 goals in nine international matches, including five goals during World Cup qualifying.

But let’s face it, Messi’s had many tremendous seasons throughout his legendary career, so there are certainly others we can look back on.

Honorable Mentions

2008-2009 season

Messi and Barcelona had a memorable campaign when they won a continental treble after capturing La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey titles. Not only did he finish as the top scorer in UCL, but he was also named La Liga Player of the Year. This all came during Pep Guardiola’s first season as manager, when Messi had 38 goals and 19 assists for the Blaugrana.

2018-2019 season

It’s not every year a player leads the league in goals, but Messi made that a regular occurrence throughout his Barca tenure. During this season, Messi scored 50 goals in all competitions, while finishing with 73 goal contributions.

It proved to be a special season for the Argentine after winning his 10th La Liga title in a year he was also named Barcelona captain.

2009-2010 season

It doesn’t get any bigger than the Ballon d’Or as an individual achievement, and 2009 marked the first time Messi captured the trophy. Since then Messi’s gone on to win six more Ballon d’Or awards, which is more than any other player in the history of the competition. The amazing thing about it is Messi was only 22-years-old at the time, which further encapsulated how promising a talent he was and went on to be.

Messi had 59 goal contributions in 53 games after leading La Liga and Champions League in goals that season.

2014-2015 season

The 2015 season proved to be another year where Messi and Co. captured a treble and the Argentina star contributed massively. Messi ended up with 89 goal contributions, as Barca went on to win La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey once again.

That season also included Messi’s passing of Telmo Zarra’s La Liga goals record. By the time Messi left the club, he finished with 474 goals in Spain’s top flight.

Tags Lionel Messi, proper football

Sports

Best Fantasy Premier League Team Names

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date May 23, 2023

Haaland Fantasy Premier League Team Names

Playing regular football is hard enough, but something even more challenging might just be finding the best fantasy Premier League team names to fit your vision for the season.

Don’t worry, though. We’ve got you covered.

The reality is picking your team name can be just as fun as participating in each matchday and selecting your squads.

Erling Haaland and Harry Kane may be tearing up the league on the pitch each week, but can you be truly happy if you captain one of them only to find out your opponent’s team name is better than yours?

John Walton/PA Images via Getty Images

It’s an opportunity to throw shade at your friends or come up with witty banter that might just make you go viral on social media.

We decided to give out our 100 best fantasy Premier League team names, so the rest is up to you.

The Classics

We start our breakdown with 20 classics for those of you that don’t like to change things up each year.

There’s nothing wrong with that. Sometimes you’ve got to roll with the jokes that will always get a laugh and that’s why you’ll probably see at least one of these in your league.

ABCDE FC
Blink 1-Eto’o
Cesc and the City
Citizen Kane
Duke of Hazard
Fifty Shades Of Andy Gray
For Fuchs Sake
Game Of Throw-Ins
Giroud Awakening
Krul and the Gang
Lads on Toure
Lallana Del Rey
Lallanas in Pyjamas
Morning Traore
Netflix and Chilwell
Obi One Kenobi Nil
Show Me The Mane
Sonny and Schar
Teenage Mutant Ninja Skrtels
Willian Dollar Baby

Featuring Current Stars

If you’re looking to mix things up and include some more current players and managers then this is probably the list for you.

Let’s face it, it’s hard to pass up the chance to include names like Harry Kane and Declan Rice because the opportunities are endless.

Alisson Wonderland
Areola Grande
Backstreet Moyes
Best Ings In Life Are Free
Boom Xhakalaka
Botman and Robin
Earth, Wind and Maguire
Gilmour Girls
Guns ‘n’ Moses
Haalandaise Sauce
Luke KyleWalker
Old Havertz Die Hard
No Pain, No Kane
Rice, Rice Baby
Rooney Tunes
Stranger Mings
The Secret Life of Pep
The Vardy Boys
You Kante Be Serious

Michael Regan/Getty Images

Include Your Favorite (Real) Clubs

Wouldn’t it be perfect if your fantasy Premier League team name could also include elements of a real club?

Look no further because these are bound to rile up some of your friends or maybe provide some extra motivation for the player that doesn’t check their lineup weekly.

A Hot New Bombshell Enters the Villa
Norfolk n’ Good
Bayer Neverlosin’
Real SoSoBad
Inter Yermam
AC a little silhouetto of Milan
Fiorentina Turner
Champagne SuperRovers
Expected Toulouse
Borussia Teeth
Bayern Bru
Bilbao Baggins
Imaginary Madrid
Pfizer Chiefs
Sexandthe City
Ajax Trees Down

Throwback to the Legends

These ones are for those that want to pay homage to the names that have made football what it is now.

So show some respect for Pep(pa) Pig and Klopps and Robbos as a way to honor two of the best managers in the Premier League.

There’s some serious gold in here.

Peppa Pig
Romeu & Houllier
Daylight Ribery
The Neville Wears Prada
Fiddler on the Huth
I’mLovinEngelsInstead
Love & Cesc & Matic
Up The Duffy
Rodallega Bombs
Arteta The Neville You Jo
Klopps and Robbos
Keane As Mustard
TierneyOfEverything
Dunk Your Busquets
Anelka Skelter
Sarri Not Sarri
Put Johans Up For De Cruyff
The Wenger Boys
Schmeichel Jackson
No Fuchs Given

Matt McNulty – Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images

Random Ones That Will Get a Laugh

The truth is people are constantly coming up with creative names and these lists can always change, but we finish off ours with some random names that will definitely make your crew laugh.

Ake Breaky Heart
Better Call Saúl
Crouch Potatoes
Curious Jorginho
Deletubbies
Egg Fried Reus
Hanging By A Fred
It’s Britney, Klich
McGinn and Tonic
Smith Rowe Your Boat
Moura The Explorer
Out On Bale
Neuer Gonna Give You Up
Pjanic! At The Disco
Silence Of The Lahms
The Konate Kid
Under My Cucurella
Up Schick’s Creek
2 Goals 1 Cup
Whats Love Gotze Do?

Tags Premier League, proper football

Sports

Ali Riley Excited to Captain New Zealand at World Cup

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date May 22, 2023

Many soccer players never get a chance to play in a World Cup, let alone one in their home country. For Ali Riley, not only does she get to do both, but also serve as a captain when she suits up for New Zealand at this summer’s spectacle.

The 35-year-old has had a whirlwind 16-months after being traded to Angel City FC back in January 2022, just in time for their debut NWSL season. It just so happens she can once again play in her home city–just miles away from where she grew up–and lead a team looking to make an impact in a massive American market.

ONE37pm had the chance to sit down with Ali Riley as part of her partnership with Champs Sports after launching their “Game All Day, Every Day” campaign.

Kevork Djansezian / Stringer

Ali Riley making moves out on the pitch

ONE37pm: Thanks so much for taking the time, Ali. Why was partnering with Champs so important for you ahead of this busy summer?

Riley: For me, I wear athleisure or sport clothing all the time. So to have the chance to do but still be glammed up and do fun content it made so much sense. I think for players like me we’re getting into this space and it’s a huge opportunity to grow our platform.

For me, being an Asian-American and playing in the World Cup with New Zealand I hope that the diversity and my unique path can be an inspiration to any little guys or anyone that wants to pursue this path.

ONE37pm: Being that it’s a World Cup year, what does this whole journey mean to you having the chance to captain your country on home soil?

Riley: Until we play that first game I’m not sure I’ll really grasp what this all means and the magnitude of it all. It’s really a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

To host a World Cup is really out of your control as a player, but I feel so lucky to play for a country that has the means and resources along with Australia to put together an amazing bid.

I see it as such a huge opportunity even with all the pressure. We’re looking to make a difference in New Zealand to hopefully grow the game so that the future teams can be more diverse.

We want to see more girls playing soccer or picking up a ball after hosting the tournament. Hopefully it’s not just watching the World Cup and that’s the end of it.

ONE37pm: Along those same lines, New Zealand’s playing in their fifth straight Women’s World Cup. How special would it be to get the nation’s first win in the tournament?

Riley: I really hope we do well. Like you said, we’ve never won a game at the World Cup, so to make history at home would be incredible and could really change the direction of women’s soccer in New Zealand.

It could really kickstart something and we’ve seen it before with the U.S. women in 1999. Their growth over here has been really amazing and they’ve pulled a lot further ahead of us in New Zealand.

We want to leave a lasting impact that can matter in 50 or 100 years down the road.

ONE37pm: You’re up to over 150 caps now with the national team, which is amazing. Looking back on it, did you ever envision this kind of success?

Riley: I really never imagined any of this honestly and that’s what makes it so overwhelming. Now I think little girls growing up can dream about these moments and create plans for how they want to pursue their passions.

Everything won’t always go according to plan, but I was lucky enough to have that seed planted when I saw the World Cup in 1999 here in LA.

John Wolfsohn / Contributor

ONE37pm: It’s your second season with Angel City now, so what has this stage of your career been like so far in LA?

Riley: It’s the most amazing feeling being able to represent my city and being able to have my family come out to all our home games. That’s kind of the dream being able to share these experiences with your loved ones.

As this league grows there will be more chances for players to experience what I am right now and that makes me really excited.

I’m so lucky to be able to share this with my family after playing in different parts of the country and around the world with clubs and the national team. It’s all very surreal.

ONE37pm: With your unique opportunities to play here but also overseas, what are some of the biggest differences you’ve seen from playing domestically versus abroad?

Riley: When I went to play in Europe I was definitely the least technical person on my team. It got even harder as I progressed from Sweden to England to Germany, but that forced me to really focus and challenge myself against these amazing players.

Especially at Chelsea, I saw Millie Bright and Magdalena Eriksson up close and they’re some of the toughest defenders I’ve ever seen. To play alongside them was really rewarding and then it was my first time where I was really a substitute.

I went through my most challenging times as an athlete because you have expectations to play every game and there’s constant pressure to perform. I’d say it helped me become a better player and even more so a better teammate because it gave me great perspective.

ONE37pm: Just one final question, Ali. I know your social media presence is really taking off now, so have you considered what comes next after you decide it’s time to hang up the boots?

Riley: I love being on camera and telling stories. I really enjoy making content and especially just feeling responsible for doing it around the struggles of women trying to make a life out of sports.

I think the fun side is always important, but we need to keep pushing to show the players for who we are and all the things we do as side hustles or anything off the pitch.

I’m not sure if the commentating side feels right for me but I want to stay involved in the game in a way that’s lighthearted and also gives me a balance to also dive into those hard-hitting questions.

How do you think Ali Riley and her squad will do in the upcoming World Cup? Shoot us a message on Instagram @properfootball and let us know!

Tags Ali Riley, NWSL, World Cup

Sports

How to Watch Premier League in the United States

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date February 28, 2023

Football has become a massive draw across the globe and Americans are consuming Premier League games more than ever.

Top stars appear in England’s top flight, making it a significant draw for supporters around the globe that regularly watch Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City. For many, the Premier League is considered the best football league in the world.

Erling Haaland and City consistently have massive star power but this season Arsenal has found themselves on the front foot of the Premier League title race for the first time in years.

Mikel Arteta’s side have always been popular in America with a previous generation led by players like Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry. Now, the Gunners b0ast promising stars like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard.

Below, I break down how fans can watch Premier League matches in the United States. Check it out!

How to watch Premier League matches

NBC Sports Group has the exclusive rights to the Premier League in the U.S., which includes English and Spanish broadcast coverage. Matches are typically shown nationally on NBC, USA Network as well as Telemundo in Spanish.

Simon Stacpoole/Mark Leech Sports Photography/Getty Images

Their Peacock streaming service shows the bulk of Premier League matches each weekend, with games being shown on Saturdays and Sundays and occasionally weekdays.

Peacock

Peacock is arguably the best way to watch Premier League matches because of the volume of games offered each week. The NBC-owned streaming service starts at $4.99 per month for its basic package and also offers a $9.99 a month service that is commercial-free.

Peacock gives fans insight into historic matches from the past, official match highlights and other Premier League programming. Premier League-specific shows such as The Men in Blazers and The 2 Robbies are some of the other programs Peacock offers.

FuboTV

FuboTV offers Premier League fans the ability to watch games on NBC and USA Network. In all, Fubo gives base subscribers over 100 channels to choose from. If subscribers stay on after an initial trial, FuboTV typically costs $74.99 a month to continue with its service.

Hulu Live TV

Hulu has over 60 channels to select including NBC and USA Network for Premier League viewing. The company’s package costs roughly $69.99 per month and it serves on a month-to-month basis similar to FuboTV.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV comes with a price tag of $64.99 per month and offers Premier League watchers with the same NBC and USA Network.

Sling TV

Sling gives subscribers several options for base streaming, including a $35 a month Sling Blue package. The 30-channel package does include NBC and USA Network.

Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images

When does the Premier League season end?

The Premier League runs through May with the final Matchday coming Memorial Day Weekend. Matchday 38 concludes the season on May 28 with all 20 English clubs competing at the same time on Championship Sunday.

Tags Premier League, proper football

Sports

Who Has the Most Wimbledon Wins?

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date January 3, 2023

Most Wimbledon Wins Federer Nadal Universal

Tennis legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams have graced England’s finest courts and these are the players with the most Wimbledon wins.

Wimbledon has been played since 1877 when the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club first introduced the major tournament.

Djokovic won his fourth straight Wimbledon crown in 2022 after the tournament was postponed in 2020 due to COVID-19.

His win this year helped him reach 20 Grand Slam titles, pulling him level with Federer and Nadal as the only men to accomplish the feat.

The England-based event is held annually as one of four majors, joining the Australian Open, French Open and U.S. Open.

It’s the only major tournament that’s held on a grass surface, with the three others played on hard and clay courts.

Traditionally, players must wear all-white at Wimbledon due to the All England Club’s strict dress code.

This is the only major championship that has a dress code for its players.

ONE37pm takes a closer at the men’s and women’s players with the most Wimbledon wins in the tournament’s history.

What is the Open Era in tennis?

The Open Era began in 1968 as part of a rejuvenation of the sport.

Grand Slam tournaments like Wimbledon started allowing professional players to compete with amateurs.

British player William Renshaw was one of many amateurs to win Wimbledon in the early days of the competition.

In fact, Renshaw won six consecutive titles from 1861 to 1866, a feat that has never been topped at Wimbledon.

The French Open was the first major played after the seismic shift, and each major since has followed suit.

Who has the most men’s Wimbledon titles (Open Era)?

Roger Federer (Switzerland) – 8 titles

Wins: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, 2017

Pete Sampras (United States) – 7 titles

Wins: 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Novak Djokovic (Serbia) – 7 titles

Wins: 2011, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022

Bjorn Borg (Sweden) – 5 titles

Wins: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980

John McEnroe (United States) – 3 titles

Wins: 1981, 1983, 1984

Boris Becker (Germany) – 3 titles

Wins: 1985, 1986, 1989

John Newcombe (Great Britain) – 2 titles

Wins: 1970, 1971

Rafael Nadal (Spain) – 2 titles

Wins: 2008. 2010

Jimmy Connors (United States) – 2 titles

Wins: 1974, 1982

Stefan Edberg (Sweden) – 2 titles

Wins: 1988, 1990

Andy Murray (Great Britain) – 2 titles

Wins: 2013, 2016

Rod Laver (Australia) – 2 titles

Wins: 1968, 1969

Men’s tennis has seen a steady generation carry the weight of the sport for almost two decades with Djokovic, Federer and Nadal.

Nadal and Federer shared Centre Court on several occasion, including one of the most epic Wimbledon finals of all time in 2008.

The five-set thriller saw rain delays and back-and-forth rallies that eventually resulted in Nadal’s first Wimbledon win.

The victory for Nadal halted Federer’s five-year title run.

Prior to their arrival, American Pete Sampras was the gold standard, especially at Wimbledon.

Sampras won seven titles in eight years.

John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg had one of the fiercest rivalries in tennis for years, and the two combined for eight Wimbledon wins.

Who has the most men’s Wimbledon titles (All Time)?

Roger Federer (Switzerland) – 8 titles

Wins: 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, 2017

William Renshaw (Great Britain) – 7 titles

Wins: 1881, 1882, 1883, 1884, 1885, 1886, 1889

Pete Sampras (United States) – 7 titles

Wins: 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Novak Djokovic (Serbia) – 7 titles

Wins: 2011, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022

Bjorn Borg (Sweden) – 5 titles

Wins: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980

Laurence Doherty (Great Britain) – 5 titles

Wins: 1902, 1903, 1904, 1905, 1906

Reginald Doherty (Great Britain) – 4 titles

Wins: 1897, 1898, 1899, 1900

Anthony Wilding (New Zealand) – 4 titles

Wins: 1910, 1911, 1912, 1913

Rod Laver (Australia) – 4 titles

Wins: 1961, 1962, 1968, 1969

Wilfred Baddeley (Great Britain) – 3 titles

Wins: 1891, 1892, 1895

Arthur Gore (Great Britain) – 3 titles

Wins: 1901, 1908, 1909

Bill Tilden (United States) – 3 titles

Wins: 1920, 1921, 1930

Fred Perry (Great Britain) – 3 titles

Wins: 1934, 1935, 1936

John Newcombe (Australia) – 3 titles

1967, 1970, 1971

John McEnroe (United States) – 3 titles

Wins: 1981, 1983, 1984

Although Open Era greats like Djokovic, Federer and Sampras sit atop this list, the previous era had some legendary figures.

William Renshaw holds a record with six straight Wimbledon championships back in the 1880’s.

Renshaw’s feat was matched by Sampras, but unfortunately the American’s run was ended before he could reach seven consecutive titles.

Swedish star Bjorn Borg won five titles in a row and was the gold standard for tennis in his country for many years.

As tennis grew as a sport, more players outside of Great Britain were introduced on the Wimbledon scene, creating more stars.

Who has the most women’s Wimbledon titles (Open Era)?

Martina Navratilova (United States) – 9 titles

Wins: 1978, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990

Steffi Graf (Germany) – 7 titles

Wins: 1988, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996

Serena Williams (United States) – 7 titles

Wins: 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2016

Venus Williams (United States) – 5 titles

Wins: 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008

Billie Jean King (United States) – 4 titles

Wins: 1968, 1972, 1973, 1975

Chris Evert (United States) – 3 titles

Wins: 1974, 1976, 1981

Evonne Goolagong (Australia) – 2 titles

Wins: 1971, 1980

Petra Kvitova (Czech Republic) – 2 titles

Wins: 2011, 2014

The Williams sisters have been the gold standard in women’s tennis with their dominance for nearly two decades.

American women have really held their own during the Open Era with Navratilova, King and Evert also winning various titles.

Navratilova won six straight women’s championships at Wimbledon, which has never been topped at the All England Club.

Who has the most women’s Wimbledon titles (All Time)?

Martina Navratilova (United States) – 9 titles

Wins: 1978, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990

Helen Wills Moody (United States) – 8 titles

Wins: 1927, 1928, 1929, 1930, 1932, 1933, 1935, 1938

Steffi Graf (United States) – 7 titles

Wins: 1988, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996

Serena Williams (United States) – 7 titles

Wins: 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015, 2016

Dorothea Lambert Chambers (Great Britain) – 7 titles

Wins: 1903, 1904, 1906, 1910, 1911, 1913, 1914

Blanche Bingley (Great Britain) – 6 titles

Wins: 1886, 1889, 1894, 1897, 1899, 1900

Suzanne Lenglen (France) – 6 titles

Wins: 1919, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1925

Billie Jean King (United States) – 6 titles

Wins: 1966, 1967, 1968, 1972, 1973, 1975

Charlotte Cooper Sterry (Great Britain) – 5 titles

Wins: 1895, 1896, 1898, 1901, 1908

Lottie Dod (Great Britain) – 5 titles

Wins: 1887, 1888, 1891, 1892, 1893

Venus Williams (United States) – 5 titles

Wins: 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008

Prior to the Open Era, British greats carried the torch on the women’s side of tennis at Wimbledon.

Dorothea Lambert Chambers and Charlotte Cooper Sterry combined for 12 titles in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s before the American renaissance of the sport took over.

Helen Willis Moody was the favorite American to find repeat success at Wimbledon with eight titles in 12 years.

Tags Tennis, Wimbledon

Sports

The 20 Best Soccer Stadiums in the World

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date December 21, 2022

As the FIFA World Cup wrapped up with one of the most exciting final games in the history of the sport, we’re taking a look at the best soccer stadiums in the world.

Soccer has s0me of the top environments in all of sports and one of the main reasons why is the stadium atmosphere. From Madrid to Melbourne. Buenos Aires to Berlin. Atlanta to Amsterdam. Stadium culture makes soccer a unique experience for everyone involved no matter where the matches are taking place.

Fans arrive hours before matches, chant the names of their favorite superstars and sing club anthems. The beauty of football being a global sport is that many stadiums are vastly different, but the supporters inside them share the same passion.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at the best soccer stadiums in the world.

1. Wembley Stadium

London, England

Eddie Keogh/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: England national team

Year Opened: March 2007

Notable games: 1966 World Cup final, Barcelona vs. Manchester United (2011 UEFA Champions League final)

No list of best soccer stadiums is complete without this iconic venue! Wembley annually hosts the FA Cup final as well as numerous other big soccer matches. It’s also home to England national team, who won the FIFA World Cup back in 1966 on their home soil at this venue.

2. Estadio Azteca

Mexico City, Mexico

Mauricio Salas/Jam Media/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Club America, Cruz Azul and Mexico national team

Year Opened: May 1966

Notable games: ‘Hand of God’ 1986 World Cup Argentina vs. England

The Azteca is one of the most challenging venues to play at in the world. The altitude of the venue makes it tough for opposition and the fans are consistently some of the loudest and most passionate.

Mexico plays all their home national team matches here and often have a huge home-field advantage.

3. Ibrox Stadium

Glasgow, Scotland

Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Rangers

Year Opened: December 1899

Notable games: Rangers home matches

Scotland has several big clubs including Celtic and Rangers, who have a bitter rivalry.

4. Estadio BBVA

Monterrey, Mexico

Alfredo Lopez/Jam Media/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Monterrey

Year Opened: August 2015

Notable games: 2026 FIFA World Cup

This is one of the most picture-esque stadiums in the world with the mountains directly behind.

5. Camp Nou

Barcelona, Spain

Joan Valls/Urbanandsport /NurPhoto via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Barcelona

Year Opened: February 1910

Notable games: 1982 World Cup semifinals

Barcelona has built one of the strongest rivalries in global soccer with Real Madrid. The Camp Nou has hosted so many contentious matches between the two sides.

6. La Bombonera

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Daniel Jayo/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Boca Juniors

Year Opened: February 1910

Notable games: 1978 FIFA World Cup

La Bombonera is an eccentric stadium that features so many passionate Boca Juniors fans. Their rivalry with River Plate is one of the best in the world.

7. Old Trafford

Manchester, England

Ashley Allen – The FA/The FA via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Manchester United

Year Opened: February 1910

Notable games: 2008 UEFA Champions League final

Man United is one of the legendary English clubs and their home venue regularly hosts incredible soccer matches.

8. San Siro

Milan, Italy

Maria Moratti/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: AC Milan and Inter Milan

Year Opened: September 1926

Notable games: 1990 FIFA World Cup

San Siro has hosted so many amazing Serie A matches including various matches during the 1990 World Cup.

9. Santiago Bernabeu

Madrid, Spain

Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Real Madrid

Year Opened: December 1947

Notable games: 1982 World Cup final

Real Madrid is one of the biggest and most well known clubs in the world and the Bernabeu is named after a club legend. Santiago Bernabeu was one of Madrid’s first incredible talents and later went on to become club president.

10. Signal Iduna Park

Dortmund, Germany

James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Borussia Dortmund

Year Opened: April 1974

Notable games: 2006 World Cup semifinal

Signal Iduna is known for its ‘Yellow Wall’ which is an ode to the amazing supporters that watch their Dortmund side.

11. Parc des Princes

Paris, France

Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Paris Saint-Germain

Year Opened: May 1972

Notable games: 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup

PSG have become of the biggest clubs in European soccer and their home matches have an electric atmosphere.

12. Estadio da Luz

Lisbon, Portugal

PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP via Getty Images)

Team Who Plays Here: Benfica

Year Opened: October 2003

Notable games: 2014 UEFA Champions League final

Benfica is one of the top team in Portugal and their venue is definitely one of the best soccer stadiums. Their fans are super passionate and they have witnessed some magical moments for Benfica and the Portuguese national team.

13. Maracana Stadium

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Andre Borges/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Fluminense and Flamengo

Year Opened: June 1950

Notable games: 2014 World Cup final

The Maracana has hosted a World Cup final and it’s one of the largest in the world with over 100,000 seats.

14. Metropolitano Stadium

Madrid, Spain

Alvaro Medranda/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Atletico Madrid

Year Opened: September 2017

Notable games: 2019 UEFA Champions League final

The Metropolitano has hosted contentious matches between Real and Atletico Madrid over recent years. It’s truly a marvelous venue that’s one of the most modernized in soccer.

15. Estadio Monumental

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Zac Goodwin/PA Images via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: River Plate and Argentina national team

Year Opened: May 1938

Notable games: 1978 World cup final

The Monumental normally has frantic matches whether it’s at the club or international levels. Argentina has played some significant games here during World Cup qualifying and during the 1978 World Cup.

16. Johan Cruyff Stadium

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Oliver Hardt – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Image

Team Who Plays Here: Ajax

Year Opened: August 1996

Notable games:

The Dutch side named the venue after legendary Netherlands superstar Johan Cruyff and his legacy lives on. Ajax produce some of the best young players in the world on a yearly basis which is why they’re so popular.

17. Centenario Stadium

Montevideo, Uruguay

Carlos Lebrato/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Uruguay national team

Year Opened: July 1930

Notable games:

The Centenario hosted the first ever World Cup and is one of the oldest South American stadiums.

18. Anfield

Liverpool, England

Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Liverpool

Year Opened: September 1884

Notable games:

Anfield has hosted some of the best Premier League matches we’ve seen and Liverpool is often at the center of it. The Merseyside club has the famous Kop, where the club’s most passionate fan are seated.

19. Allianz Arena

Munich, Germany

Thomas Hiermayer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Bayern Munich

Year Opened: May 2005

Notable games:

Bayern Munich is the most successful German club and they regularly win the Bundesliga title. Allianz Arena does a phenomenal job of innovating and using colorful light displays to highlight important causes and obviously their beloved club.

20. San Mames Stadium

Bilbao, Spain

Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images

Team Who Plays Here: Athletic Bilbao

Year Opened: September 2013

Notable games: Bilbao home matches

Spain has several beautiful venues but Bilbao’s one of the more modern stadiums in the country. It houses all of Athletic Bilbao’s games and was supposed to host several Euro 2020 matches before the COVID-19 pandemic changed those plans.

Did I miss your favorite on my list of best soccer stadiums? Shoot us a message on twitter @137pm and let us know!

Tags FIFA World Cup, proper football, Soccer

Sports

Most FIFA World Cup Wins of All-Time

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date November 16, 2022

The best football nations on the planet will begin their journey in Qatar soon, so we’re looking at the countries with the most FIFA World Cup wins.

The 2022 edition of the World Cup kicks off this week from Qatar, who will be competing in and hosting their first tournament. Traditional powerhouses like Argentina, Brazil, France and Germany will be in the running when the competition begins. However, Italy won’t be in attendance for the second consecutive World Cup. They managed to win Euro 2020, but fell short during World Cup qualifying.

The biggest stars will be hoping to earn World Cup glory, including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar Jr.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Men’s National Team returns to the World Cup for the first time in eight years as the young group aims to break through.

Only European and South American nations have managed to win the World Cup in its 92-plus year history. Overall, eight countries have captured FIFA World Cup wins, so ONE37pm takes a closer look at those with the most success.

Which Nations Have the most FIFA World Cup wins?

1. Brazil – 5 Wins (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002)

picture alliance / Contributor Getty Images

The South American nation leads the way with five World Cup titles, but it’s been nearly 20 years since Brazil’s last triumph.

Neymar and Co. will be the favorites heading into this year’s World Cup with a loaded attacking front. The group includes Antony, Raphinha, Vinicius Jr. and Gabriel Jesus.

Over the years, Brazil has had a long list of world-class talents, including Pele, Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, Garrincha and more.

(Tie) 2. Germany – 4 Wins (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014)

Matthias Hangst/Getty Images

The Germans have played in more World Cup finals than any other country. They’ve split those appearances, winning four and losing four.

Their most recent victory came in 2014 after a fierce extra time battle against Argentina.

(Tie) 2. Italy – 4 Wins (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006)

Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

The Azzurri have one of the most decorated World Cup pasts in the history of the sport, but they’ve missed two straight tournaments.

Alessandro del Piero, Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon are just some of the incredible players Italy has managed to field over the years.

(Tie) 4. Argentina – 2 Wins (1978, 1986)

Bettmann / Contributor Getty Images

Argentina’s World Cup drought has gone 30-plus years and Lionel Messi is looking to win this tournament for the first time.

Diego Maradona and his infamous ‘Hand of God’ sequence helped guide Argentina to their last World Cup title back in 1986.

(Tie) 4. France – 2 (1998, 2018)

Fu Tian/China News Service/Visual China Group via Getty Images)

Les Bleus have a rich football history with many top stars like Just Fontaine, Michel Platini and Zinedine Zidane.

Their current group is led by 2018 World Cup winners Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema. France can become the third nation to ever win back-to-back World Cups if they can secure a win in Qatar.

(Tie) 4. Uruguay – 2 (1930, 1950)

STAFF/AFP via Getty Images

It’s been a long time since Uruguay found World Cup glory, but they’re one of only six nations with multiple wins on the world’s top stage. The South American side won two of the first four World Cups and they’ll be looking to remind everyone of their history in Qatar.

The Uruguayans feature a strong group led by veterans like Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez.

(Tie) 7. England – 1 (1966)

Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

England is considered one of the birthplaces of football, however, they don’t hold the most FIFA World Cup wins. The Three Lions have been getting closer to winning under Gareth Southgate after finishing fourth at the 2018 World Cup.

The English also finished runners’ up at Euro 2020 after falling to Italy.

(Tie) 7. Spain – 1 (2010)

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Spain boasted one of the greatest World Cup squads in the history of the tournament in 2010. The group was led by Fernando Torres, David Villa, Xavi and Andres Iniesta, who beat the Netherlands in the final.

Top FIFA World Cup Goal Scorers

The World Cup has had many elite players grace the pitch over the years and these are the players with the most goals.

Miroslav Klose – Germany (16)

Klose holds the record for World Cup goals after appearing in four separate competitions for Germany. The striker capped off his legacy with a 2014 World Cup title but his best performance came on home soil in 2006. He also led that World Cup with five goals despite Germany not taking home the trophy.

Ronaldo – Brazil (15)

Ronaldo Nazario is recognized as one of the top strikers in football history and his World Cup track record backs that up. He helped guide his nation to glory at the 2002 World Cup after scoring eight goals.

Gerd Muller – West Germany (14)

Muller completed a decorated career with West Germany scoring 14 goals in 13 World Cup matches. He won the competition in 1974 after losing just one match in the competition to then-East Germany.

Just Fontaine – France (13)

Fontaine had the single-best World Cup by an individual player when he scored 13 goals back in 1958. The Frenchman only played in one World Cup but he left a lasting legacy with his nation.

Pele – Brazil (12)

The Brazilian star is the only player to ever win the World Cup on three separate occasions. Pele was a teenager when he won his first tournament and managed to play in four World Cups overall. He’s regarded as one of the greatest players of all time and is Brazil’s leading goal scorer with 77 goals in 92 matches.

Every FIFA World Cup Winner

1930 – Uruguay 4-2 Argentina

1934 – Italy 4-2 Czechoslovakia

1938 – Italy 2-1 Hungary

1942 – Cancelled due to World War II

1946 – Cancelled due to World War II

1950 – Uruguay 2-1 Brazil

1954 – West Germany 3-2 Hungary

1958 – Brazil 5-2 Sweden

1962 – Brazil 3-1 Czechoslovakia

1966 – England 4-2 ET West Germany

1970 – Brazil 4-1 Italy

1974 – West Germany 2-1 Netherlands

1978 – Argentina 3-1 ET Netherlands

1982 – Italy 3-1 West Germany

1986 – Argentina 3-2 West Germany

1990 – West Germany 1-0 Argentina

1994 – Brazil 0-0 (3-2 on PKs) Italy

1998 – France 3-0 Brazil

2002 – Brazil 2-0 Germany

2006 – Italy 1-1 (5-3 on PKs) France

2010 – Spain 1-0 ET Netherlands

2014 – Germany 1-0 ET Argentina

2018 – France 4-2 Croatia

Tags FIFA World Cup, proper football, World Cup 2022

Sports

Everything to Know About Group E at the World Cup

Post author By Matt Reed
Post date November 7, 2022

Multiple Group E sides will be looking to become World Cup champions in 2022 as the tournament kicks off in a few weeks.

RELATED: Latest 2022 World Cup Odds

Spain and Germany headline Group E, which also features Costa Rica and Japan.

The four countries will battle for places in the last 16, which is something all of them have reached in recent competitions.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at the group ahead of the 2022 World Cup.

Which Teams Will Play in Group E?

Costa Rica qualified for the World Cup after an epic battle against New Zealand back in June.

Japan has become accustomed to qualifying for the world’s biggest competition, and they’re always a tough out.

Germany are four-time World Cup champions and will look to bring a mixed group of youth and experience to Qatar.

Marvin Ibo Guengoer/Getty Images

Spain won its lone World Cup title in 2010, but with a young group of La Liga stars, perhaps the Spanish can win their second.

Who’s the Favorite?

Germany and Spain are pretty even on paper, but with the injuries the Germans are battling right now, the edge goes to the latter.

The Spanish are led by a strong core in the midfield with Pedri, Gavi, Sergio Busquets, and others.

Meanwhile, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati are exciting attacking options to go along with players like Gerard Moreno.

Etsuo Hara/Getty Images

Spain won the World Cup over a decade ago in South Africa with one of the most talented squads of all time.

They boast a deep squad that can present challenges for any top nation, but their first priority will be handling a tough Group E.

Players to Watch on Every Team

Costa Rica – Jewison Bennette

Costa Rica mainly boasts an aging squad, but Bennette is one of their more promising young talents.

The Ticos star moved to Sunderland this season and has already scored a goal in just three appearances.

He’ll have the opportunity to mix into the Costa Rica attack with Joel Campbell and Johan Venegas.

Germany – Jamal Musiala

Musiala is one of the best young midfielders in Europe and will have a significant role with Germany.

He’s been lighting it up with Bayern Munich this season and already has chemistry with players like Thomas Muller and Leroy Sane.

Japan – Takefusa Kubo

The Real Sociedad winger has become a huge name for Japan at the age of 21.

He’ll likely be one of the team’s go-to attackers in Qatar and aim to carry his La Liga form over to a team that’s had lots of World Cup success in the past.

Parnaby Lindsey/picture alliance via Getty Images

Spain – Pedri

The Barcelona product continues to make a name for himself on the club and international scene.

The midfield will be based around the young Spaniard, and with strong performances at the Euros and during Nations League, he wants to make a big impact at his first World Cup.

Match Schedule for Group E

Nov. 23: Germany vs. Japan (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 8 a.m. ET)

Nov. 23: Spain vs. Costa Rica (Al Thumama Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 11 a.m. ET)

Nov. 27: Japan vs. Costa Rica (Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 5 a.m. ET)

Nov. 27: Spain vs. Germany (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 2 p.m. ET)

Dec. 1: Costa Rica vs. Germany (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor; kick-off 11 a.m. ET)

Dec. 1: Japan vs. Spain (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan; kick-off 2 p.m. ET)

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For the entire World Cup match list, check out our article breaking down the full event schedule.

Tags proper football, World Cup 2022