Since this World Cup began, how many people have learned about Cape Verde, the small nation off the west coast of Africa?

The contrast could hardly have been greater: the Cape Verde players, plying their trade in Russia, Ireland or Portugal’s second division, found themselves facing defending champions Argentina and

Charting the history and remarkable numbers behind Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's rivalry, from April 23, 2008 until

On a night when it seemed like young stars in their primes were laying down a statement of intent, a moment when the changing of the guard in world soccer seemed at hand, Lionel Messi sent a message in Kansas City.

The Argentine superstar is one of just four athletes to have joined the three-comma club while still active in their sports—and is one of two new billionaires competing at this year’s World Cup.

Resurfaced comments from the late Diego Maradona about Lionel Messi's leadership resurface before Argentina's next World Cup match. Can Messi lead?

There are few players who command the complete reverence of their team-mates, young and old, when they themselves are still at the very top of the tree. Then again, there have been precious few careers like that of Lionel Messi,

Lionel has a close relationship with his dad, who also acts as his agent, and mom

While the Patagonian statue has been remarked as notable for its size alone, it also features a hard-to-ignore giant, bulging trophy between Messi’s seemingly bare legs.

The Golden Boot may not always lead to team success, but the race for the individual award this summer might be one of the most compelling in recent memory

Lionel Messi's historic 20th World Cup goal wasn't enough as Cape Verde twice equalized before an own goal in extra time sealed the win for Argentina.