How the World Cup beat expectations on and off the pitch

NPR | By Michel Martin

Published July 21, 2026 at 3:42 AM CDT

What made the World Cup such a big success, despite early fears? NPR's Michel Martin asks soccer podcaster Roger Bennett.

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Michel Martin

Michel Martin is the weekend host of All Things Considered, where she draws on her deep reporting and interviewing experience to dig in to the week's news. Outside the studio, she has also hosted "Michel Martin: Going There," an ambitious live event series in collaboration with Member Stations.

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