The calendar will close on American soccer with one national team still recuperating from a World Cup absence and another squad surging toward its own global gala.
The sport’s governing body underwent major changes and scored a major victory off the field. The arrival of two superstars brought wonder and joy to MLS, which was also plenty entertained by a stylish champion that drew record crowds in an unexpected market.
The national teams remained front and center, but as soccer continues to grow and diversify, story lines big and small blossomed in 2018. Here are 11 of them:
1.