The Real World Cup Prize? Broadcast Rights
by Eric Pfanner (Analysis | New York Times - May 24)
In less than three weeks, 32 soccer teams from around the world will square off for the chance to lift the World Cup trophy in South Africa. Thirty-one of them will go home empty-handed. more details | go to article

ESPN’’s British Soccer Deal Highlights Global Push
by Eric Pfanner (Article | New York Times - July 5)
An advertising campaign for Budweiser in Britain a few years ago spoofed fears of what might happen to soccer if American television broadcasters had their druthers: “soccertainment,” complete with enhancements like multiple balls, monster trucks and loudmouth commentators. more details | go to article

For Cash, European Soccer Says, 'This Space For Rent'
by Eric Pfanner (Analysis | International Herald Tribune - May 30)
When Malcolm Glazer took over Manchester United, the best-known team in English soccer, angry fans denounced the crass commercialization that they assumed would accompany the American investor's foray onto their home turf. more details | go to article