Soccer, 2014 World Cup | featured news

The U.S. national soccer team’s path to the 2014 World Cup is lined with obstructions, most notably in the form of visits to Central American cauldrons pulsating with the sights and sounds that turn sport into spectacle.

Brazilian police backed by armored military vehicles have invaded Rio de Janeiro’s biggest slum. Hundreds of black-clad, rifle-armed officers began swarming into the Rocinha shantytown early Sunday. Experts say it’s the most important step yet in bringing security to Rio de Janeiro before it hosts the final matches of the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics.