Offside calls are some of the most controversial ones in soccer. Here’s a detailed look at the rules ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This beautiful game would be very ugly if offside didn't exist. At the World Cup, you'll see it often.

The Sporting News breaks down the offside rule, how it is enforced and why it's a part of the game.

The ball goes into the net, the crowd cheers, but then the assistant referee's flag goes up. The celebrations end. What happened? The play was offside. Offside is one of soccer's most important ...