The Puzzle Before the World Cup
The Athletic is set to publish its daily Connections: Soccer Edition puzzle for June 27, 2026, just days before the opening match of the 2026 World Cup. The brain‑teaser challenges readers to sort sixteen clues into four themed groups, a ritual that has become a favorite way for football fans to mark the countdown to the tournament.
Created by senior editor Will Jeanes, the puzzle blends soccer history with wordplay, asking participants to identify patterns such as nations that have contested a final without lifting the trophy, legendary cup finals, Italian coaches who have succeeded in England, and iconic father‑son duos in the sport.
How the Game Works
Each of the sixteen entries belongs to one of four colour‑coded categories — Yellow, Green, Blue or Purple — and players must discover the hidden connection that links four items together. A correct grouping earns a point, and the goal is to solve the puzzle in as few attempts as possible.
The Yellow category focuses on countries that have appeared in a World Cup final yet have never secured the championship. Croatia is a prime example, having reached the 2018 final but still awaiting its first title.
Category Clues
The Green tier draws on terminology associated with the Copa Libertadores and other South American competitions, with words like “Del Rey” and “Copa” themselves serving as clues. These hints often reference historic tournaments and the prestige of winning the continental crown.
Blue clues spotlight Italian coaches who have captured the Premier League crown, with Antonio Conte among the names that fit the description. Their achievements illustrate the cross‑continental influence of tactical expertise.
Finally, the Purple category celebrates famous father‑son pairings in soccer history, such as George Weah and his son, who have both left marks on the sport at different levels.