Connections: Soccer Edition Puzzle 22 Answers and Hints for July 2, 2026
A daily brain‑teaser tied to the 2026 World Cup offers clues and answers for four distinct categories, crafted by senior editor Will Jeanes of The Athletic.
Jul 1, 2026
Location
Norway
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Norway across Soccer, Football, Hockey.
Seattle’s World Cup Showdown: Belgium, Senegal, and the Road to Team USA
Seattle’s stadiums are hosting crucial World Cup qualifiers, where Belgium faces Senegal, the United States prepares for Bosnia‑Herzegovina, and the tournament’s broader story unfolds.
Jul 1, 2026
Red Wings Pursue Veteran Forward in Roster Overhaul
The Detroit Red Wings are exploring the possibility of signing veteran winger Mats Zuccarello to replace Patrick Kane, while also considering mentorship of young Norwegian Michael Brandsegg‑Nygard.
Jul 1, 2026
From Bedroom Heat Press to Global Brand: Helen Hardy’s Foudys Revolutionizes Women’s Soccer Merchandise
Helen Hardy founded Foudys after struggling to find women's soccer jerseys for the England team. The business has grown into a multimillion‑pound retailer, signed partnerships with major sports apparel brands and plans a New York flagship ahead of the 2027 Women's World Cup.
Jul 1, 2026
Erling Haaland’s Dual Identity: From Leeds Roots to Norway’s Goal Machine
Born in England to Norwegian parents, Erling Haaland elected to represent Norway early in his career, becoming the country's all‑time leading scorer and guiding them to the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup.
Jun 30, 2026
Brazil advances past Japan on Guimaraes’ decisive assist
A last‑minute goal by Gabriel Martinelli, set up by Bruno Guimaraes, gave Brazil a 1‑0 victory over Japan, keeping their World Cup hopes alive and igniting transfer speculation.
Jun 30, 2026
Katie Lampson hangs up her boots after legendary Gotham FC run
After ten years and two championship‑winning goals, forward Katie Lampson announces her retirement, thanking the sport for its gifts of travel, friendship and growth, while Gotham FC president Yael Averbuch West hails her indelible mark on the club.
Jun 30, 2026
Katie Lampson, Gotham FC Forward, Announces Retirement After Global Career
After ten years and stints across five countries, forward Katie Lampson hangs up her boots, citing gratitude for the sport that shaped her life and career.
Jun 30, 2026
When Soccer Meets the Diamond
The 2026 World Cup in the United States has turned into a unique crossover event where soccer stars try their hand at baseball, offering fans a glimpse of cross‑sport camaraderie.
Jun 30, 2026
Haaland’s Hermès Obsession Sparks Gender‑Neutral Fashion Dialogue
Norwegian forward Erling Haaland's curated Hermès collection, especially the Haut à Courroies model, has ignited conversations about masculinity and high‑end fashion, a trend echoed by teammates and rivals alike.
Jun 30, 2026
U.S. Emerges as Dark Horse in 2026 World Cup Knockout Stage
The knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup features 32 teams, highlighted by France's +300 favorite status, Argentina's +400 odds, and a surge of betting activity on the United States.
Jun 28, 2026
World Cup Knockout Stage: Predictions, Stars and Surprises
Predictions highlight France’s dominance, Messi’s legacy, and potential shocks like an early U.S. exit, while fan cultures from Argentina, Scotland and Ecuador add vibrant energy.
Jun 28, 2026
Record‑Breaking 2026 NHL Draft Highlights College Talent Surge
The 2026 NHL Draft selected a record 109 current or committed NCAA Division I players, with Michigan State leading the way and teams from across the league tapping into a globally diverse talent pool.
Jun 28, 2026
World Cup Ticket Prices Soar, Redefining Who Can Attend
From humble hitchhikes in 1978 to families spending tens of thousands on tickets today, the financial barrier to the World Cup is higher than ever, reshaping its audience.
Jun 27, 2026
Norwegian Salmon Campaign Leverages Erling Haaland to Win Over U.S. Health‑Conscious Consumers
The Norwegian Seafood Council has launched a U.S. campaign featuring Erling Haaland, targeting health‑focused, higher‑income consumers and reinforcing the premium quality and country‑of‑origin of Norwegian salmon.
Jun 26, 2026
Haaland Rested for Norway’s Clash with France
Norway's star striker Erling Haaland will sit out the final Group I encounter with France, a tactical move by coach Ståle Solbakken to keep the squad fresh for the knockout rounds.
Jun 26, 2026
American Fans Gear Up for FIFA World Cup: Survey Reveals Growing Engagement
Nearly five percent of U.S. residents plan to attend World Cup matches in person, and over a million fans have already packed venues for the opening games. Broadcast coverage spans multiple platforms, and youth soccer participation has risen sharply.
Jun 26, 2026
Ivory Coast Coach Condemns Schweinsteiger’s Racist Remarks on African Football
A heated exchange between Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae and German football pundit Bastian Schweinsteiger has reignited debates over racism in the sport, while the Ivorians mark a milestone in their World Cup journey.
Jun 26, 2026
Club Legacyz’s Icons 4th Edition Football Set Sells Out in Hours, Sets Stage for 2026 Launch
The limited Icons 4th Edition Football set from Club Legacyz vanished within two hours of its June 15 release, driven by on‑card autographs, match‑worn jersey cards, and the buzz around stars like Erling Haaland. The company is already planning a themed 5th edition for late 2026 and will sponsor the VIP area at the 2026 National Sports Collectors Convention in Chicago.
Jun 25, 2026
Study Finds No Immediate Brain Changes in Teen Soccer Players
A season‑long investigation of 129 male adolescents in Germany, Belgium and Norway found no statistically significant short‑term cognitive or structural brain alterations linked to heading, though certain biomarkers differed at baseline.
Jun 24, 2026
England’s World Cup Draw with Ghana Highlights Persistent Issues
Despite 80% possession and 19 shots, England settled for a 0-0 draw against Ghana, a result that cements their progression but leaves fans yearning for more incisive play.
Jun 24, 2026
Morocco Eyes Knockout Stage as Haiti Seeks Redemption in Atlanta
Morocco, the top-ranked African team, battles Haiti in Atlanta with a chance to secure a knockout berth, while Haiti, already eliminated, hopes to end its campaign on a high note.
Jun 24, 2026
Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland Light Up the 2026 World Cup
Three generational talents dominate the tournament, reshaping narratives and driving record audiences.
Jun 23, 2026
Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland Light Up the World Cup Amid Off‑Field Turmoil
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland have delivered standout displays in the 2026 World Cup, drawing record viewership while organizers contend with ticket costs, fan transport, lodging shortages and regulatory hurdles.
Jun 23, 2026