USMNT Elimination Reaction and World Cup Conspiracy Theories - The New York Times

Theory Briefing

• The USMNT's elimination triggered a wave of conspiracy theories, from rigged tournament brackets to alleged CIA involvement.
• Tim Spiers digs into soccer's most outlandish World Cup claims, framing them as a kind of sport's own X-Files.
• Rigged bracket theories suggest powerful outside forces — not just play on the pitch — decide who advances in the tournament.
• CIA poisoning allegations represent the most extreme end of fan-driven suspicion following a shocking or painful result.