Explore every episode of the podcast First Touch '26 World Cup Podcast

Spain and France have set the standard in Europe, but who can challenge them next? David Gass and Matt Doyle break down Europe's top contenders, the shifting balance of power and what’s next on the road to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

This episode continues First Touch's Road to the 2030 World Cup series, previewing every confederation, the biggest storylines and the teams to watch on the road to 2030.

0:00 Leading the Way: Spain & France

1:48 The Next Tier: England & Portugal

6:04 The Netherlands, Italy & Germany

12:22 Euro 2028 & the Road to 2030

#WorldCup #UEFA #FirstTouch

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🎙️ Africa's Road to the 2030 World Cup

🎙️ CONCACAF's Road to the 2030 World Cup

After hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where does CONCACAF go from here? David Gass and Matt Doyle break down the region's biggest contenders, emerging stars and the teams to watch as the road to the 2030 FIFA World Cup begins.

This episode is part of First Touch's Road to the 2030 World Cup series, previewing every confederation, the biggest storylines and the teams to watch ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

0:00 The state of CONCACAF

4:45 The Road Ahead

10:11 Canada's World Cup breakthrough

13:46 Mexico's resurgence

15:41 CONCACAF's rising stars

20:24 Panama’s next step

24:06 Costa Rica, Jamaica & Suriname

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🎙️ Africa's Road to the 2030 World Cup

The road to the 2030 World Cup starts in Africa.

David Gass and Matt Doyle take stock of African soccer after the 2026 World Cup, discuss the continent's next chapter with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on the horizon, and look at which nations are best positioned to challenge over the next four years.

They discuss the rise of Cape Verde, Egypt, DR Congo and Ivory Coast, examine what's next for Senegal and Tunisia, spotlight Africa's next generation of talent, and debate whether Nigeria, Cameroon and other contenders can return to the top of African football before 2030.

This episode kicks off First Touch's Road to the 2030 World Cup series, where we preview every confederation, the biggest storylines, and the teams to watch on the road to the next FIFA World Cup.

0:00 The state of African soccer

4:45 Cape Verde's breakout

6:57 Egypt & DR Congo on the rise

11:31 Senegal and Tunisia at a crossroads

14:49 Africa's next generation

17:04 Ivory Coast & Morocco shine

19:06 Africa's remaining contenders

Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle react to the World Cup Final, analyzing Spain's championship performance, Argentina's run, Lionel Messi's legacy and the standout performances from the final.

Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass celebrate the best of the 2026 World Cup by handing out their tournament awards before wrapping up the show with a preview of the third-place match between France and England.

0:00 Intro

5:16 FM Tactician of the Tournament

16:48 Golden Ball Award

24:19 Best Defender of the World Cup

32:20 Football Manager Level Up Player

42:58 The Golden Glove: Best Goalkeeper

48:40 Young Player of the Tournament

55:52 World Cup Best XI

1:03:07 England vs. France Third-Place Game

Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass continue getting you ready for Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and Argentina and are joined by Musa Okwonga from the Stadio podcast to talk all things World Cup ahead of the final.

Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle get you ready for World Cup Final weekend. After sleeping on the England-Argentina semifinal, they revisit one of the tournament's biggest matches before looking ahead to the third-place playoff between England and France. The crew also breaks down the Golden Boot race, Doyle heads to the First Touch Tactics Board and everyone shares their favorite moments from an unforgettable tournament as the countdown to the World Cup Final begins.

0:00 Morning After Thoughts on England vs. Argentina

8:36 Picking A National Team Manager

14:19 US Domestic Leagues World Cup Bump?

19:08 3 Big Things of the World Cup

26:08 Doyle Talking Spain Tactics against France & Argentina

32:26 Third-Place Match & Golden Boot Race

39:50 Kickback Hosts Golden Boot Draft Update

The gang is back as Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down Argentina’s dramatic, come-from-behind win against England. They discuss the tactics, big moments, the greatness of Leo Messi and what’s next for England. Then they give you their initial thoughts and reactions to Spain taking on Argentina in the World Cup Final.

Susannah Fuller is back with David Gass and Matt Doyle to react to Spain's semifinal win over France, discuss what went wrong for Les Bleus, and break down the performances that shaped the match. Then, the crew looks ahead to the historic England vs. Argentina semifinal with lineup talk, key matchups, and predictions for who will join Spain in the World Cup Final.

0:00 Intro

2:03 Spain Shows Their Quality

6:36 Disappointing France

8:44 Is Didier Dechamps To Blame?

13:48 Spain Has France’s Number

16:31 The Top End Talent of Spain

19:00 Yamine Lamal’s World Cup

22:24 France Outlook & Final Spain Thoughts

28:55 Argentina and England Kits

33:56 England vs. Argentina Matchup

38:47 How Does England Contain Messi?

41:44 Jude Bellingham & Squad Selection

47:05 Argentina-England Predictions

Just four teams remain, David Gass and Michele Giannone preview a blockbuster UEFA showdown as France and Spain battle for a place in the World Cup Final. They also play Buy or Sell, talk about World Cup expansion and coaching changes and rumors in Italy, Germany and Uruguay.

0:00 Intro

2:59 Buy or Sell: England & USMNT

8:52 World Cup Expansion

16:36 Fresh Start for Italy

22:11 Pep Guardiola as a National Team Coach?

27:40 Jürgen Klopp To Take Over Germany

30:56 Diego Forlan To Lead Uruguay?

34:25 France vs. Spain Preview & Predictions

44:38 Closing Thoughts

And then there were four. The final quarterfinal matches are in the books. David Gass and Michele Giannone break down all the controversy, tactics and key moments as England edged Norway in extra time and Argentina found a way past Switzerland to set the stage for the World Cup semifinals.

0:00 Intro

3:55 Kickoff Time in Miami

7:04 Norway vs. England Breakdown

10:50 Jude Bellingham’s Legacy

17:56 Controversial Calls & Spidercam Wire

23:49 Subbing Haaland, Norway’s Outlook & Sorloth’s Performance

29:51 England’s Postgame Comments

34:27 Gareth Southgate vs. Thomas Tuchel

39:10 Breel Emobolo VAR Decision

47:25 Argentina’s Underwhelming Performances

52:32 England-Argentina Rivalry & David Beckham

1:02:37 Messi vs. Maradona Discussion

1:05:40 Closing Thoughts

Mikel Merino's winner sent Spain past Belgium and into the World Cup semifinals. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle break down Spain's dramatic quarterfinal victory before previewing the final two quarterfinals: Harry Kane and England's showdown with Erling Haaland and Norway, plus Lionel Messi and Argentina taking on Switzerland with the last two semifinal spots on the line.

0:00 Intro

5:18 Belgium Comes Up Short, Courtois Injury

13:04 Spain, Lineup Decisions & Looking Ahead to France

25:00 How Does Norway Setup Against England?

30:13 Starting Lineup Questions for England

32:35 The World Cup of Erling Haaland

36:30 England vs. Norway Predictions

41:26 Argentina Starting XI Decisions

48:38 Can Switzerland Challenge?

One quarterfinal is in the books and David Gass, Matt Doyle and Michele Giannone are back to break down France's convincing 2-0 win over Morocco as Kylian Mbappé delivered another standout performance to send Les Bleus into the semifinals. Then they preview Spain vs. Belgium before checking in on the latest news in and around the World Cup.

0:00 Intro

2:12 VAR Check on Mbappé Penalty

11:10 Mbappé: Where Does He Rank Among the All-Time Greats?

20:24 France vs. Morocco Breakdown

25:35 All-Time Best Belgium Kits

30:07 Can Spain's Defense Stop Belgium?

40:26 England Injury Update + Quansah Suspension

42:49 Sadio Mané International Retirement & Legacy

Morocco and France kick off the World Cup quarterfinals as David Gass, Matt Doyle and Michele Giannone preview one of the tournament's biggest matchups. Can the Atlas Lions continue their dream run against France's star-studded attack of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise? The crew breaks down the key tactical battles, what each team needs to do to advance and who they're picking to reach the semifinals.

• 0:00 Intro
• 5:48 World Cup News Updates
• 13:50 Mbappe & Olise Take on Morocco
• 27:40 How the U.S. fell apart against Belgium
• 31:01 Ranking France vs. Morocco Kits

We are down to 8 as the quarterfinal matchups are now set for the World Cup. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle break down the final Round of 16 matches, including another dramatic comeback from Messi and Argentina against Egypt and Switzerland's penalty shootout win over Colombia after a scoreless draw. The crew also reveals its Best XI of the tournament so far, looks back at how the host nations performed and give their predictions for the quarterfinal matches.

0:00 Intro

3:49 Reflections on the USMNT

7:18 Christian Pulisic Postgame Quote

23:30 Was This a Successful World Cup for Mexico?

28:13 Which Host Nation as Best Outlook for 2030

32:16 Canada's World Cup Takeaways

39:57 Best XI of the Tournament

52:55 Egypt Impresses, Argentina’s Dramatic Comeback

1:05:32 Switzerland Outlasts Colombia in PKs

1:12:00 Quarterfinal Predictions

The USMNT's World Cup run is over after a tough loss to Belgium. David Gass, Matt Doyle and Eric Krakauer break down what went wrong, what comes next for the U.S. plus they look at Spain’s win over Portugal. Then they preview Argentina vs. Egypt and Colombia vs. Switzerland as the final quarterfinal spots are decided.

0:00 Intro

3:02 USMNT Pride & Balogun Controversy Effect

8:20 The Future of Soccer in America

18:43 What Went Wrong for the USMNT Against Belgium?

34:52 The Legacy of Christian Pulisic

41:23 The Role of MLS, Pochettino's Future & the Youth Pipeline

46:51 Spain Defense Shines, Portugal Disappointment

1:02:33 Argentina vs. Egypt - Messi vs. Salah

1:13:05 Colombia Battles Switzerland

The drama continued with a wild night at the Azteca as England escaped past Mexico, while Erling Haaland and Norway stunned Brazil to book their place in the World Cup quarterfinals. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Eric Krakauer break down both Round of 16 thrillers before looking ahead to a massive day featuring the USMNT against Belgium, including the controversial decision surrounding Folarin Balogun. The crew also previews the heavyweight showdown between Spain and Portugal for a place in the quarterfinals.

Morocco and France punched their tickets to the World Cup quarterfinals. David Gass, Eric Krakauer and Matt Doyle break down both Round of 16 matches before looking ahead to Sunday's blockbuster showdowns between Brazil and Norway and Mexico and England. The trio also gives their picks for the Golden Ball, Golden Glove, the Best Young Player and the best defender of the tournament.

0:00 Intro

2:49 World Cup Award Winner Picks

31:04 Morocco Gets Past Canada

53:57 France Survives Paraguay

1:08:16 Brazil Takes On Norway

1:18:55 Mexico Battles England

The Round of 32 came to a dramatic close as the knockout stage delivered more unforgettable moments. David Gass, Eric Krakauer and Michele Giannone break down Cape Verde's incredible performance that nearly knocked out Messi and Argentina, Egypt surviving a tense penalty shootout against Australia and Colombia cruising past Ghana to book its place in the Round of 16. The crew also previews Canada's showdown with Morocco, France's clash with Paraguay, and shares the Round of 16 matchups they're most excited to watch.

0:00 Intro & Mexico-England Kickoff Drama

12:20 Buy or Sell: Concacaf, Colombia, France

36:27 Cape Verde-Argentina Thriller

49:32 Egypt Gets Past Australia in Penalties

55:36 Favorite Games in Round of 16

1:08:00 France Attack Against Paraguay

1:13:23 Canada Battles Morocco

David Gass, Eric Krakauer, and Matt Doyle break down Portugal's dramatic victory over Croatia, Spain's dominant win over Austria and Switzerland winning a knockout game for the first time in 88 years as the Round of 32 continued at the World Cup. Then they preview Argentina vs. Cape Verde, Australia vs. Egypt and Colombia vs. Ghana with the final three Round of 16 spots up for grabs.

0:00 Intro

3:29 3 Big Things

7:53 Portugal Survives Croatia Thriller

41:35 Spain Cruises Past Austria to Reach Round of 16

51:41 Switzerland Makes More History Against Algeria

1:00:16 Australia and Egypt Battle

1:05:13 David vs Goliath: Cape Verde vs. Argentina

1:11:16 Colombia Looks To Move On Against Ghana

The USMNT is headed to the Round of 16! David Gass, Michele Giannone and Eric Krakauer break down the USA’s win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Harry Kane delivering for England and Belgium surviving a wild battle with Senegal. Plus, they look at the updated bracket and preview Thursday's Round of 32 matchups: Spain vs. Austria, Portugal vs. Croatia and Switzerland vs. Algeria.

0:00 Intro

2:28 3 Big Things

12:00 USA Wins & Red Card Controversy

33:00 Belgium Escapes in Wild Match with Senegal

46:44 Harry Kane Leads England Past DR Congo

58:26 Spain Looks To Advance Against Austria

1:06:00 Showdown Between Portugal & Croatia

1:16:28 Switzerland Takes On Algeria

Another big day at the World Cup is in the books. David Gass and Matt Doyle break down France, Norway and Mexico advancing to the Round of 16 before previewing the USMNT's win-or-go-home clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Plus, Tom Bogert joins from USMNT camp with the latest ahead of kickoff.

0:00 Intro

2:45: Mexico explodes at the Azteca

31:43 Haaland finds a late winner

39:33 Mbappe and Olise star for France

45:25 Tom Bogert checks in from USA camp

1:06:32 USA Expectations for tonight

1:15:15 Battle between Belgium & Senegal

1:18:18 Will England meet Mexico at the Azteca?

The World Cup delivered its wildest day yet as Brazil survived, Germany crashed out on penalties and Morocco eliminated the Netherlands. David Gass, Matt Doyle and Michele Giannone break down the biggest moments before turning their attention to Tuesday's Round of 32, where France faces Sweden, Mexico hosts Ecuador at the Azteca and Ivory Coast takes on Norway.

0:00 Intro

1:47 3 Big Things

9:25 Brazil Escapes

18:15 Japan Comes Up Short

32:00 Paraguay Stuns Germany in Pens

48:13 Morocco Knocks Out Netherlands

59:02 Doyle Breaks Down Bosnia

1:02:40 Ivory Coast vs. Norway

1:09:10 France vs. Sweden

1:13:57 Mexico Hosts Ecuador at the Azteca

David Gass, Matt Doyle and Eric Krakauer break down the complete Round of 32 bracket and make their picks for the rest of the FIFA World Cup. They also react to Canada's historic first-ever World Cup knockout win before previewing Monday's Round of 32 matches, including Brazil vs. Japan, Germany vs. Paraguay and Netherlands vs. Morocco.

0:00 Intro

2:54 Round of 32 Bracket Picks

28:13 Canada's Historic Knockout Win

47:33 Brazil vs. Japan Preview

58:02 Germany Against Paraguay Matchup

1:02:05 Netherlands vs. Morocco Showdown

1:19:08 Final Thoughts

The 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage is here! Michele Giannone and Eric Krakauer break down the final day of the group stage, including Colombia's statement performance to finish ahead of Portugal, the dramatic finish in Group J, Argentina's perfect group stage, and what the completed Round of 32 bracket tells us. Plus, they debate the tournament favorites, preview Canada vs. South Africa, and make their knockout stage predictions.

0:00 Intro

1:48 3 Big Things

5:56 Group J Drama: Algeria & Austria Advance

11:25 Messi Scores Again, Argentina Finish Perfect

16:30 Colombia Wins Group K Over Portugal

26:00 DR Congo’s Historic World Cup Run

31:00 VAR Controversy: Colombia’s Disallowed Goal

36:13 Group L Wrap Up, England Advances

39:15 Round of 32 Bracket & Buy or Sell

46:40 Golden Boot Race

49:13 Canada vs. South Africa Preview

58:10 Final Thoughts & Predictions

The race for the Round of 32 is nearly complete. David Gass, Matt Doyle and Eric Krakauer discuss Cape Verde making history by reaching the knockout stage in its World Cup debut, Senegal keeping its hopes alive, and Norway's outlook heading into the knockout rounds. Then they preview Portugal vs. Colombia and break down the decisive finales in Groups J and L.

0:00 Intro

2:16 3 Big Things

10:19 Belgium & Egypt Advance, Iran Still Alive

24:44 Cape Verde Makes History, Uruguay Falls Short

42:41 Senegal Survives, Norway Eyes Knockouts

50:30 England, Croatia & Ghana: Group L Scenarios

56:32 Portugal vs. Colombia: Winner Takes Group K?

1:07:46 Algeria & Austria Battle for Group J Position

The World Cup group stage is nearing its conclusion as the Round of 32 begins to take shape. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Eric Krakauer break down the USMNT's group stage finale, Ecuador's dramatic push into the knockout rounds, the Netherlands winning Group F and the biggest storylines from Groups D, E and F. Plus, they look ahead to the decisive matches that will complete the knockout bracket.

0:00 Intro

3:02 3 Big Things

10:43 USMNT Wraps Up Group Stage

28:01 Netherlands Wins Group F

39:27 Ecuador Reaches the Knockout Round

58:28 Mbappé vs. Haaland for Group I

1:04:43 Can Senegal Reach the Knockout Round?

1:07:24 Bielsa & Uruguay Drama

1:18:31 Group G Comes Down to the Wire

1:24:07 Level Up: Belgium's Fernandez-Pardo

1:29:44 Cape Verde's World Cup Magic

Vini Jr. leads Brazil to the top of Group C, Canada reaches the knockout rounds despite defeat, and South Africa celebrates a historic World Cup moment. Jordan Angeli, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down the biggest results from the day, including Mexico's perfect group stage, before previewing the USMNT's decisive Group D finale against Türkiye. Plus, the crew breaks down the knockout scenarios in Groups E and F as the race for the Round of 32 comes down to the final matchday, and Sky Sports' Sam Obaseki joins the show.

0:00 Intro

3:57 Three Big Things

8:33 South Africa Makes History

16:01 Mexico Finishes a Perfect Group Stage

21:43 Canada Advances Despite Defeat

32:23 Vini Jr. Leads Brazil, Morocco Advances & Scotland Stays Alive

47:08 Group E Preview: Ivory Coast, Ecuador & Curaçao Battle for Knockout Berths

53:32 Group F Preview: Japan, Netherlands & Sweden Fight for First Place

55:57 USMNT Faces Türkiye; Paraguay & Australia Battle for Survival

1:02:17 Sky Sports' Sam Obaseki Joins the Show

Cristiano Ronaldo makes more history, England falls flat and Croatia keeps its World Cup hopes alive. David Gass, Jordan Angeli and Michele Giannone break down the biggest stories from Matchday 13 before previewing a decisive day of simultaneous group finales. Canada faces a win-and-in showdown with Switzerland, Brazil and Morocco battle for Group C positioning, and the race for second place behind Mexico goes down to the final matchday.

0:00 Intro

4:10 How Teams Advance & Knockout Projections

18:58 Portugal, Ronaldo Roll Past Uzbekistan

23:40 Colombia Defeats DR Congo

33:30 England Frustrated by Ghana

42:39 Croatia Keeps Hopes Alive vs. Panama

46:11 Canada vs. Switzerland: Win and In?

58:41 Brazil and Morocco Battle for Group C

1:05:00 Mexico Wraps Up Group A Play

1:11:16 South Korea vs. South Africa Preview

Lionel Messi made history for Argentina, Algeria kept its World Cup hopes alive and France booked its place in the knockout rounds on Day 12 of the tournament. David Gass, Jordan Angeli and Matt Doyle break down all the action before turning their attention to Day 13, where Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal face mounting pressure, England takes on Ghana, Colombia meets DR Congo and Croatia looks to bounce back against Panama.

0:00 Intro

1:53 3 Big Things

13:18 Messi Makes History Against Austria

18:46 Algeria Still Alive

24:37 Weather Delays, France Advances

31:30 Haaland, Norway Hold Off Senegal

40:50 North American Update: Canada's Ismaël Koné

46:25 Ronaldo and Portugal Face Uzbekistan

52:36 Colombia Showdown with DR Congo

1:01:30 England Battles Ghana

1:03:24 Croatia Looks to Bounce Back Against Panama

Spain finally found their scoring touch against Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde continued their stunning World Cup run, and Belgium stumbled again as the drama ramped up on Day 11 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. David Gass, Jordan Angeli, and Michele Giannone break down all the biggest stories from the day, project the USMNT lineup for its showdown with Türkiye, welcome Volair Shabila to discuss Iraq's tournament, and look ahead to another loaded slate of matches featuring Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland.

0:00 Intro

3:45 Three Big Things

10:34 Spain & Lamine Yamal Shine vs. Saudi Arabia

18:05 Cape Verde's Dream Run Continues

26:13 Belgium Stumbles Again

31:26 Egypt Earns First World Cup Win

38:32 Projecting the USMNT XI vs. Türkiye

43:00 FM Tactics Board: Balogun

45:20 Volair Shabila on Iraq's Rise

56:25 Messi Returns as Argentina Face Austria

1:02:49 Ranking France's Best Kits

1:08:19 Senegal Faces Must-Win Match

1:13:06 Nightcap: Jordan vs. Algeria

David Gass and Michele Giannone are back talking about all the action from Day 10, including a rout by the Netherlands against Sweden, Germany punching its ticket to the next round against Ivory Coast and a historic scoreless draw between Curaçao and Ecuador. The pair plays another game of Buy or Sell this time looking at the Mexico, Canada and the USA and look ahead to a pressure-filled day as everyone on Day 11 is sitting one point.

0:00 Intro

2:55 Buy or Sell: North American Edition

13:30 Netherlands Rout Sweden

20:26 Japan Tops Tunisia With Four Goals

25:52 Germany Edges Ivory Coast To Advance

38:48 Curaçao and Ecuador Stalemate

50:10 Spain Looks to Bounce Back Against Saudi Arabia

54:45 Uruguay Battles Cape Verde

58:47 Belgium Faces Iran

1:02:22 New Zealand vs. Egypt

The United States is through to the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup! David Gass and Michele Giannone are back to discuss Alex Freeman’s breakout performance and look ahead to the USA’s last group game and beyond. Plus, Paraguay earns a dramatic victory despite playing down a man, Türkiye faces mounting frustration, Morocco holds off Scotland, Brazil cruises to another win, and Sweden strengthens its position in Group C. The guys also look ahead to key Matchday 11 matchups, including Germany vs. Ivory Coast and Ecuador's must-win showdown with Curaçao.

0:00 Intro

2:06 USMNT Clinches Group D

12:30 Alex Freeman's Breakout

18:00 Pochettino's Lineup Decisions & Future

22:48 Paraguay Wins Despite Red Card

29:56 Türkiye's World Cup Frustration

36:27 What's Next for Australia and Paraguay?

39:24 Morocco Survives Scotland Test

43:04 Brazil Wins, But Raphinha Concern Looms

48:05 The World Cup's Physical Demands

50:12 Sweden vs. Netherlands Breakdown

55:11 Tunisia and Japan Wrap Up Matchday 10

57:45 Germany vs. Ivory Coast Preview

1:01:52 Ecuador's Must-Win Against Curaçao

It’s all about Concacaf at the 2026 FIFA World Cup today. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle break down Mexico securing a spot in the knockout round with a win over South Korea and Canada's historic 6-0 victory over Qatar behind a Jonathan David hat trick. Then the crew previews a pivotal Group D showdown as the United States takes on Australia in Seattle with major knockout-round implications. Plus, a look at the other games today including Scotland vs. Morocco, Brazil under pressure against Haiti, and Türkiye vs. Paraguay.

0:00 Intro

4:08 3 Big Things

12:41 Mexico Advances Against South Korea

25:56 Canada Drops Six on Qatar

36:00 Johan Manzambi and the Group B Outlook

39:32 Golden Boot Race Update

42:40 USMNT vs. Australia in Seattle

54:40 Favorite USMNT Kits of All Time

1:00:05 Scotland vs. Morocco Showdown

1:05:19 Brazil Under Pressure vs. Haiti

1:10:25 Türkiye vs. Paraguay Clash

Matchday 1 is complete, and Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle play a round of Buy or Sell on the biggest teams, players and storylines from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They break down England's statement win behind Harry Kane, Portugal's frustrating draw with DR Congo, Panama's disappointing start and Colombia's victory over Uzbekistan. The duo also checks in on Christian Pulisic and the latest from USMNT camp before looking ahead to pivotal second matches for Canada and Mexico, with Edson Álvarez, Gilberto Mora and El Tri aiming to take another step toward the knockout rounds.

0:00 Intro + Buy or Sell: England, France & Ronaldo

12:50 DR Congo Earn Historic Point, Portugal Frustrate

20:14 Harry Kane Leads England's Statement Win

29:23 Panama's Disappointing Start

34:44 Colombia Gets the Job Done

45:22 Christian Pulisic and the USMNT Update

52:04 Czechia-South Africa & Switzerland-Bosnia Preview

55:13 Canada Hosts Qatar at BC Place

59:19 Mexico, Edson Álvarez & Gilberto Mora

1:06:40 The Tournament's Biggest Tactical Trends

Day 6 dazzled at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the stars took center stage. Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down Kylian Mbappé's record-breaking performance for France, Erling Haaland's standout World Cup debut for Norway and another milestone moment from Lionel Messi as Argentina opened its campaign. Then the crew looks ahead to another huge day of action, including England and Harry Kane's showdown with Croatia, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal's tournament debut, Colombia's clash with Uzbekistan and what Cyle Larin's role could mean for Canada moving forward.

0:00 Three Big Things

8:47 Mbappé Breaks Another Record

19:01 Haaland's World Cup Arrival

27:24 Messi Hits Another Milestone

37:00 Jordan Pushes Austria to the Limit

43:05 Golden Boot Race Update

46:33 What Is Cyle Larin's Role for Canada?

50:14 Portugal and Ronaldo Against DR Congo

56:54 England vs. Croatia Preview

1:05:07 Ghana and Panama Meet in Toronto

1:07:56 Colombia Faces Uzbekistan

1:13:25 Closing Thoughts

Cape Verde delivers the shock of the 2026 World Cup by taking points off Spain, while Belgium and Egypt share the spoils and Saudi Arabia frustrates Uruguay and New Zealand and Iran with a wild match to cap off the night. Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass break it all down from a day of draws at the World Cup.

Attention turns to France and Argentina as two of the tournament favorites begin their World Cup campaigns. Will France vs. Senegal deliver? Can Erling Haaland lead Norway on the game's biggest stage? And after one of the most remarkable qualifying journeys in recent memory, Iraq finally gets its World Cup moment.

Plus, a stop in Lawrence, Kansas, Doyle's tactical breakdown on Lionel Messi and a discussion about who replaces César Montes at center back for Mexico.

0:00 Intro

2:15 Three Big Things

5:53 Tunisia Hires Hervé Renard & England Injury News

13:23 Cape Verde Stuns Spain

19:40 Saudi Arabia Frustrates Uruguay

25:55 Lukaku Rescues Belgium Against Egypt

32:10 Iran vs. New Zealand Delivers MLS After Dark Vibes

39:00 Algeria Finds a Home in Kansas

47:05 Who Replaces César Montes for Mexico?

49:50 South Korea's Hot Mic Controversy

52:05 France vs. Senegal Preview

56:29 Erling Haaland's World Cup Debut

1:00:12 Doyle’s Tactics Session: Argentina’s Messi System

1:02:30 Argentina Opens Against Algeria

1:05:18 Austria vs. Jordan Nightcap

1:07:17 Cape Verde’s GOAT Celebration

Day 5 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered more drama as Tunisia fired its coach, Japan and the Netherlands played one of the matches of the tournament and Germany put seven past Curaçao. Susannah Fuller and David Gass break down all the action from Groups E and F, including Sweden's red-hot attack and Ivory Coast's late win over Ecuador. Then Flo Lloyd-Hughes (The Cutback) joins the show to discuss the tournament so far, England's outlook, Harry Kane and the day's upcoming matches, including Spain vs. Cape Verde, Belgium vs. Egypt, Uruguay vs. Saudi Arabia and Iran vs. New Zealand.

0:00 Intro

2:28 Three Big Things

7:39 Breaking News: Tunisia Fires Coach

13:12 Gyökeres-Isak Partnership Powers Sweden

18:11 Germany Scores Seven, Curaçao Gets Its Moment

23:43 Japan and Netherlands Deliver a Classic

30:18 Ivory Coast Strikes Late

36:49 Top 5 Kit Matchups

48:38 Flo Lloyd-Hughes on England, Harry Kane and the World Cup

1:06:46 Mexico's Unofficial Mascot: Merlin

1:08:41 Uruguay Faces Saudi Arabia

1:11:44 Spain Enters the Tournament

1:14:28 Belgium Meets Egypt

1:19:09 New Zealand Faces a Big Challenge

Day 4 of the World Cup here we go. Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Matt Doyle break down Qatar's dramatic draw with Switzerland, Brazil and Morocco's heavyweight showdown, Scotland's first World Cup win in 28 years and Australia's statement victory over Turkiye led by Nestory Irankunda. Plus, Doyle reacts to the USMNT's opening win and looks ahead to Game 2 as the crew previews Germany vs. Curaçao, Netherlands vs. Japan, Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador and more from another packed day at the World Cup.

0:00 Gass Celebrates the Knicks

4:46 Three Big Things

10:06 Qatar's Dramatic First World Cup Point

14:11 Brazil-Morocco Lives Up to the Hype

19:06 Scotland's Historic World Cup Win

23:12 Irankunda Sparks Australia Past Turkiye

28:55 Doyle on the USMNT and Game Two

34:04 Can Curaçao Challenge Germany?

37:03 Netherlands Meets Japan

40:04 Ivory Coast-Ecuador Showdown

45:00 Sweden Faces Tunisia

48:48 Merlin the Duck in Mexico City

Susannah Fuller, David Gass and Michele Giannone break down the USA's 4-1 win over Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup, discuss Canada's first-ever World Cup point in their game against Bosnia & Herzegovina and preview today's matches headlined by Morocco vs. Brazil.

0:00 USMNT's Statement Win Over Paraguay

22:26 Folarin Balogun's Golden Boot Race & USA Standouts

37:40 Canada's Tournament-Opening Draw

47:58 Qatar vs. Switzerland Preview

50:52 Brazil vs. Morocco Showdown

1:05:50 Haiti vs. Scotland Matchup

1:13:15 Australia vs. Turkiye Breakdown

1:19:20 Final Thoughts

Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass get you ready for the USA's opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Paraguay with Doyle's latest USMNT tactical session, a Football Manager 2026 simulation, and a full match preview. Plus, the crew recaps the opening day of the World Cup, including Mexico's historic win over South Africa and South Korea's comeback victory against Czechia, before looking ahead to Canada vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina.

0:00 Intro

3:42 Three Big Things

8:30 Mexico vs. South Africa Recap

18:22 South Korea vs. Czechia Recap

23:20 Doyle's USMNT Tactical Session

27:50 Football Manager USA World Cup Simulation

34:37 USA vs. Paraguay Preview

51:06 Canada vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina Preview

1:02:25 Lamine Yamal Is One of Us

The day has finally arrived and Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass give you all their fun soccer picks and predictions heading into the 2026 World Cup. They talk a little US and Canada with a special tactical breakdown from Doyle and a special World Cup simulation before the crew previews the first games of the tournament: Mexico against South Africa and a showdown between South Korea and Czechia.

0:00 Intro

4:53 1 Wish for this World Cup

9:36 The Tourney Favorites

15:40 The Dark Horses

22:00 Vibes SC Picks

26:26 Football Manager World Cup simulation

30:15 Talkin’ USMNT

35:57 Canada’s Prospects

40:07 Doyle’s Tactical Segment

43:52 Mexico vs. South Africa

53:15 South Korea vs. Czechia

59:55 Declan Rice Sunburn

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch, we give you all the latest news, from the injuries to key players, NYC watch parties, and a closer look at the legacy that the 2026 World Cup will leave.

0:46 Injuries on the Rise

3:00 Shooting near England Base Camp

3:52 NYC Watch Parties

4:55 USMNT Ticket Prices

7:09 A Closer Look - The Legacy of World Cup 2026

12:04 Eric and Producer Brad give their World Cup predictions

David Gass, Matt Doyle, Susannah Fuller and Tom Bogert go live from Soccer House in Chicago for a World Cup Golden Boot Draft, building their teams and predicting which stars will lead the tournament in goals. The group also discusses breakout candidates, tournament favorites, favorite World Cup memories and the fan cultures that make the tournament special.

Please note: This episode was recorded live at Soccer House in Chicago ahead of the World Cup. Audio quality may differ from our standard studio recordings.

David Gass is joined by Ryan Hunn and Musa Okwonga from Stadio to discuss what has them most excited as the World Cup approaches. The crew shares the players, teams, matches and moments they'll be watching throughout the month, from Mexico's opportunity on home soil and Brazil under Carlo Ancelotti to the stars who could define this tournament and shape the next decade of the game.

0:00 Welcome & France-Senegal Showdown

3:17 Mexico's Opportunity on Home Soil

10:41 World Cup Dreamers and Cinderella Runs

14:46 James Rodríguez, Colombia & World Cup Magic

17:17 The Stars of the Next Decade

22:34 Brazil Under Ancelotti

30:00 Why You Have to Watch the Boring Games

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch we give the latest updates on injuries forcing players to withdraw from the tournament, a record breaking counterfeit merchandise bust, and a closer look at the new rules being implemented at the World Cup. All that and more on First Touch Dispatch.

0:42 Injuries to Key Players

2:46 Thomas Partey Ghana Inclusion

4:11 Counterfeit Merchandise Bust

5:39 Field Conditions

8:52 A Closer Look - New Rules

12:54 One For the Road - MLS Players at WC '26

Susannah Fuller and David Gass break down the expanded World Cup format, the pressure facing some of the tournament favorites, and the teams generating the most intrigue heading into the summer. From the USMNT roster reveal and Jesse Marsch’s new Canada deal to France’s loaded squad, Brazil’s expectations under Carlo Ancelotti, Colombia’s top-heavy roster, and the group stage matches they can’t wait to watch, there’s no shortage of storylines as the countdown to the World Cup continues.

0:00 Scott McTominay, Jesse Marsch & USMNT Roster News

9:41 The Expanded World Cup Effect

13:27 France Looks Loaded, Colombia’s Top-Heavy Squad

18:02 Biggest World Cup Snubs

20:30 Teams Under Pressure & Crash Outs

25:15 Must-Watch Group Stage Matches

On this week's edition of First Touch Dispatch, we dive into the latest news surrounding the World Cup. Iran has officially moved their basecamp to Mexico, Messi has an injury scare, and the USMNT roster is now OFFICIALLY announced.

0:36 Iran Base Camp Relocation

1:58 Spain Roster Backlash

3:23 Messi Injury Scare

5:11 AC Milan, Juventus and the Italian National Team

6:16 England's Pre-Tournament Players

8:06 A Closer Look - USMNT Roster

11:56 One For The Road - Kochen + Rick

Bosnia and Herzegovina returns to the World Cup with one of international soccer’s most emotional national team stories. We explore the country’s complex football history, the memories of Bosnia’s first World Cup appearance in 2014, and the dramatic road back to the global stage fueled by one of soccer’s most passionate fanbases, Bosnian icon Edin Džeko, and a new generation featuring Esmir Bajraktarević.

Sweden returns to the World Cup with a history bigger than many realize and a new generation trying to add to it. We break down the Blue and Yellow’s controversial road to 2026, Graham Potter’s influence, Lukas Bergvall’s emergence, and the enduring impact of Zlatan Ibrahimović on Swedish football.