Explore every episode of the podcast Rule The Roost - A Tottenham Hotspur Podcast

Jack is joined by a jubilant Lara to bask in the glory of Tottenham Hotspur ending their Stamford Bridge hoodoo with an utterly dominant away victory over Chelsea. We kick things off by asking if this was one of the greatest away performances in Spurs' modern history—not a smash-and-grab fluke, but a composed, mature display where Tottenham completely bossed possession and kept a historic clean sheet. We discuss why this statement win feels like Roberto De Zerbi's equivalent of Mauricio Pochettino's famous turning-point victory at Aston Villa, and how a frank pre-Man United team meeting and the recent Marbella bonding trip have visibly shifted the squad's mentality. Attention then turns to our new midfield engine room. After weeks of crying out to see Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes start alongside one another, the duo delivered an absolute masterclass. We ask whether we have finally found a double pivot to rival the peak Mousa Dembélé and Victor Wanyama era, and why Fernandes is already showing shades of Luka Modrić in a Lillywhite shirt. We also celebrate Mathys Tel's sensational, Sonny-esque individual strike and argue why the 21-year-old has earned an extended run in the starting eleven, alongside praising Archie Gray's maturity out of position. Plus, we laugh at Cole Palmer completely losing his head (and somehow escaping an earlier straight red card), sweat over James Maddison hobbling off, and debate whether the Lewis family's summer spending has finally banished Tottenham's banter era for good. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tottenham have gone to Stamford Bridge and absolutely BATTERED the hosts in a totally dominant performance. We'e been building something pretty decent the past few games, but this was truly the icing on the cake - a venue known for being the place where dreams go to die for Tottenham might have truly been the place where this new era began truly flying. Fernandes and Tonali were absolutely dominant in midfield. Mathys Tel with surely his best performance in a Spurs shirt was inspired. What a win! What is De Zerbi cooking here? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Jon Bass (host of The Big Jon Bass Show) to bask in the glory of Tottenham Hotspur finally securing their first Premier League win of the season against Coventry. We kick things off by recalibrating our expectations for the season and explaining why Roberto De Zerbi's tactical flexibility—shifting to a back three to nullify Coventry's counter-attack—proves he has the pragmatic edge that Spurs have sorely lacked in recent years. We also compare his growing stature as a club statesman to the likes of Martin Jol and Mauricio Pochettino. Attention then turns to the standout performers on the night. We discuss why James Maddison is the ultimate "remote control" that makes the entire Tottenham attack tick, how his presence visibly unlocked Sandro Tonali in midfield, and why Tosin Adarabioyo's slick passing and aerial dominance could make him a vital fixture in the starting eleven. We also celebrate the spine-tingling return of Dejan Kulusevski and react to Johan Lange's recent interview in the Danish press regarding his job security and the rebranding of the Hotspur Way hotel. In the second half of the show, we dive into your listener questions. We debate whether Mathys Tel or Wilson Odobert should head out on loan in January, how much Spurs need to "overspend" in future windows to catch up with the elite, whether the upcoming trip to Chelsea is a free hit, and recall our favourite Spurs players with bizarre running styles—from Mousa Dembélé's effortless glide to Vedran Ćorluka's knee-bound shuffle. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Spurs have won their first game of the season - a worldie from James Maddison on his first start in quite some time sent Spurs on their way. Marmoush popped up with goal as did Ben Davies. There was also the special moment that Dejan Kulusevski stepped back onto the pitch following his injury hell. An eventful match, and one we're all glad ended up the way that it did. Onwards and upwards! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack welcomes the legendary Billie T back to the podcast to reflect on Tottenham's season so far, fresh from a spirited comeback with ten men at Old Trafford. We kick things off by looking at the massive positives from the Manchester United clash, asking if the first-half display proves that Roberto De Zerbi's system has finally clicked—and whether a clinical striker is now the only missing piece of the jigsaw. We also unpack the bizarre Richarlison situation as he turns out for the Under-21s against Cheltenham, questioning how a clash of fiery personalities left Spurs without a proven goalscorer registered for the Premier League squad. Attention then turns to the January striker market, the runaway success of Troy Parrott and Will Lankshear, and De Zerbi's decision to take the squad (including exciting youngsters like Luca Williams-Barnett and Malachi Hardy) on a mid-season bonding trip to Marbella. Plus, we vent about the stale state of ex-pros in football media and Sean Dyche's recent comments. The second half of the show is dedicated to a massive listener mailbag. Billie reveals his iconic two-litre Pepsi Max and Aldi Disaronno away-day train concoction, recounts the infamous, chaotic 2018 away trip to Burnley, and defends the £85m signing of Mateus Fernandes. We also debate the aesthetics of future Spurs shirt sponsors, whether we should splash £100m on boyhood Tottenham fan Alex Scott, and wrap up with a deep dive into cheese boards, AI anxiety, and watching Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey in 70mm. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back from holiday, Jack is here to discuss the draw with Manchester United at the weekend, and what it might mean for Spurs... and United! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack and Con reunite after a tedious three-week international break, determined to keep the vibes upbeat as Tottenham prepare for a massive trip to Old Trafford. We kick things off by discussing Harry Kane matching Peter Shilton's England caps record. We ask why the striker's incredible legacy is still so under-appreciated by rival fans, and put to bed any lingering rumours of a spectacular return to North London. Attention then turns to the academy: with European giants reportedly circling 18-year-old wonderkid Luca Williams-Barnett, we debate whether Roberto De Zerbi needs to start trusting the youth and finally offer him a clear pathway into the first team. We also tackle the ultimate Spurs time machine question. If you could travel back and change just one moment in Tottenham's history, what would it be? From Moussa Sissoko's raised arm in Madrid to the barren 2018 transfer window and the Battle of the Bridge, we debate the sliding doors moments that could have altered the club's trajectory. Finally, we look ahead to the Manchester United clash, answer listener questions—including a hilarious debate on which widely disliked former player we would bring back to the current squad (featuring a passionate defence of Hossam Ghaly)—and wrap up with some essential film and TV recommendations. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the unprecedented three-week international break mercifully drawing to a close, Jack and Gavin reunite to reflect on a deeply frustrating start to the Tottenham season. We kick things off by questioning whether the club has lost a piece of its soul. With hundreds of millions spent on new players, why does it feel harder than ever to connect with this squad compared to the organic, passionate teams of the Mauricio Pochettino era? Jack admits his creeping 'weasel' doubts over Sandro Tonali's £100 million arrival, fearing another Tanguy Ndombele situation, while Gavin explores why the scars of past transfer failures make it so difficult for fans to trust the current regime. We also catch up on the international break news, including Antonio Conte's explosive new interview detailing Daniel Levy's alleged apathy towards winning, the double Dutch injury blows to Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke, and Dele Alli's surprise phone call to Harry Kane on Twitch. Finally, we look ahead to a massive trip to Old Trafford. With Spurs still searching for a spark, is the clash against Manchester United the perfect opportunity to ignite the season, or will a defeat plunge the club further into the abyss? Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Dan Kilpatrick from The Athletic to react to the seismic breaking news that an independent commission has found Manchester City guilty of 114 of their 115 financial charges. We break down the Premier League's damning statement regarding sham contracts and artificially inflated revenues, alongside City's immediate plans to appeal. We then dive into the potential sanctions—ranging from multi-year points deductions to total expulsion—and ask what this historic verdict means for the integrity of the last decade of English football. Dan explains why Tottenham Hotspur might be the club most heavily impacted by City's financial doping, having missed out on multiple Champions League qualifications during the affected period (2009-2018). We discuss whether Spurs will seek financial reparations and speculate on how Daniel Levy would have reacted to the news compared to the current regime. Finally, we react to Pep Guardiola's defiant message to the fans, debate whether state ownership has caused football to lose its soul, and reflect on how City's artificial dominance robbed the Premier League of organic title races between the likes of Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool and Mauricio Pochettino's Tottenham. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the international break providing a welcome respite from the current Premier League season, Jack and Phil hit pause to retreat into a happy place and talk about one of the most uniquely brilliant players to ever wear a Spurs shirt: Dele Alli. Sparked by his recent training videos, the duo take a misty-eyed trip down memory lane to celebrate Dele's alien-like talent and his unbelievable highlights reel. From the jaw-dropping flick and volley against Crystal Palace to his dominant brace against Real Madrid and that impossible Ajax assist, we recount the moments that made him a genuine sensation. We also tackle the complex narrative surrounding his career. We re-evaluate his infamous interaction with Jose Mourinho in the All or Nothing documentary, arguing that the editorial narrative feels unnecessarily grim given the immense personal hurdles Dele has overcome. We push back against the "wasted career" tag, celebrating the fact that despite his struggles, Dele achieved more before turning 21 than many do in a lifetime, cementing himself as a beloved icon for an entire generation of Spurs fans. Finally, we read out a massive selection of listener memories and ask whether the sheer romanticism of that 2016/17 era can ever be replicated. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by professional football coach Harry Brooks to take an unfiltered, black-and-white look at the reality of Tottenham Hotspur sitting at the bottom of the Premier League table. We kick things off by addressing Harry's reputation for being 'negative' online, explaining why his analytical coaching perspective prevents him from blindly clapping along to the club's unprecedented summer spending. We dissect the "utterly disgraceful" squad building that saw Spurs spend hundreds of millions without securing a dominant presence in either the attacking or defending penalty boxes, leaving the team with a physically struggling Dominic Solanke as the only recognised centre-forward. Attention then turns to the defensive and midfield gambles. Harry explains why selling Luka Vušković could be a generational mistake, arguing that Jan Paul van Hecke is simply a downgrade on Cristian Romero. We also dive into the Sandro Tonali debate, questioning whether a reliable 7/10 player is enough for a team with elite ambitions, while comparing his ceiling to the raw potential of Lucas Bergvall and discussing the frustrating shoehorning of Mateus Fernandes. Finally, we explore the mental fragility of the squad following the collapse against Aston Villa. We debate whether Roberto De Zerbi is right to call out the team's soft underbelly, and ask if the unprecedented three-week international break will destroy any lingering rhythm or provide a desperate, much-needed reset. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Spurs lose again, this is becoming a theme. Don't expect much joy or bright-siding on this one. You've been warned. Pitiful home performance to a Villa side facing their own problems at the moment. Something has to change, and quick. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Spurs lose to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup. Another loss at Anfield. It was looking like a joyless evening, until a few subs saw things start to get going... until a Szoboszlai screamer sealed the deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack and Baker reunite to unpack Tottenham's agonising 407-minute goal drought and figure out exactly where the attack is misfiring. We dive deep into the underlying numbers, revealing that despite leading the league with 111 take-ons and dominating penalty box touches, Spurs have generated an abysmal 2.22 xG from open play. Baker argues it is time for fans to embrace "FC Stinky" and rely on grinding out set-piece goals, especially with centre-backs Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke currently topping the squad's expected goals charts. We also put Dominic Solanke's lack of aggression under the microscope, asking if he possesses the killer instinct required to lead the line. Attention then turns to Roberto De Zerbi's shifting demeanour. We debate his performative on-pitch scolding of Mathys Tel, analyse his defensive defiance regarding consecutive clean sheets, and question his decision to field an entirely new starting eleven for the upcoming cup clash against Liverpool. Finally, we close out the show with a bizarre detour into the viral Chinese Hyrox event to discuss the true meaning of a win. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack jumps on to discuss Tottenham vs Everton, the first goalless draw at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium. Spurs controlled the game for the most part, but still, no goals. Is it the lack of a quality striker? Is it the lack of a creative number 10? Or is it becoming ever more apparent that the ground is built upon a Saxon burial ground and vengeful, disturbed spirits plague our fortunes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack sits down with James Maw from The Athletic for a Thursday catch-up and a huge listener mailbag. We kick things off with Mauricio Pochettino's latest comments, as the former boss claims he would return to manage Spurs in any division. We also unpack his explosive demand that Chelsea be stripped of their 2016-17 Premier League title for financial breaches and the trophy be handed to Tottenham. James shares exactly how he would feel about a retrospective title parade, before giving his verdict on Roberto De Zerbi's start to the season. The second half of the show is dedicated to your questions. Sean Leahy asks James to explain his tendency to self-edit his opinions on View From The Lane, Houston Reveaux flags Keith Hackett's bizarre social media meltdown over the Forest match, and THFC Podcast asks whether the media's double standards towards Spurs have reached breaking point. We also ask sidford20's question on whether Mykhailo Mudryk is already the worst loan signing in club history, and DM wants to know if James has heard from Danny regarding his thoughts on Tottenham's slow start. Finally, we look at the tactical dilemmas facing De Zerbi. MJBhotspur asks for Dejan Kulusevski's best position, Matt Cipolla wants to know the ideal front four to get the attack firing, and Jack C alongside James Reed address the collective fan PTSD by asking what run of results is acceptable against Everton, Liverpool, and Aston Villa before the international break. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is back behind the mic! After recovering from throat surgery, he joins Gavin to recount his viral away-day experience travelling from Tottenham to Nottingham ONLY using public buses. Attention then turns to the pitch, where Spurs finally stopped the rot against Nottingham Forest with a largely controlled performance. We break down Rodrigo Bentancur's standout display, exploring how an injury-free run and Sandro Tonali's combative presence helped him thrive in midfield. We also discuss Conor Gallagher's impressive outing, whether the online hate he receives is forced, and why the omission of Mateus Fernandes felt strange given De Zerbi's pre-match comments. Elsewhere, we examine Oliver Glasner's pre-game mind games and debate whether De Zerbi's emotional volatility is becoming a concern. Finally, we praise Savio for getting up to speed and ask where it is going wrong for Mathys Tel amidst unwarranted abuse. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack shares his thoughts on Tottenham’s first point of the season at a hostile City Ground. The scoreline doesn’t really convey what was a fairly good, tense affair. Plenty of positives for Tottenham to take from that, despite the lack of cutting edge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Jack taking a cautious approach to his recovery, Tom Foins is joined once again by long-time collaborator Dan Kilpatrick (The Athletic) for a special reunion to dissect a historic £400 million transfer window. The duo look back at the chaos of the summer and ask whether this unprecedented spending spree is a genuine statement of intent or simply a necessary correction to keep Spurs competitive in the modern Premier League. We discuss the early impressions of Jan Paul van Hecke following Daniel Levy's alleged comments on his fee, heap praise on the massive potential of Mateus Fernandes, and question whether Sandro Tonali's lack of fitness is a legitimate cause for concern. Attention then turns to the bizarre deadline day loan signing of Mykhailo Mudryk from Chelsea. Tom and Dan debate whether this is a Roberto De Zerbi vanity project that risks blocking the pathway for young homegrown talent. We also look at the notable departures, asking if the club bungled the Kevin Danso exit, before analysing the massive gamble of placing all our faith in Antonin Kinsky as the undisputed number one goalkeeper. Finally, we hand out our overall ratings out of ten for the window and discuss what a realistic and successful season looks like from here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack returns to the microphone following emergency throat surgery to deliver a raw, honest debrief on Tottenham's disappointing home defeat to Newcastle and the chaotic final days of the transfer window. We break down what went wrong against Newcastle, examining why teams still arrive in North London believing Spurs can be easily turned over. Jack questions whether Antonin Kinsky is ready to be a Premier League number one, raises fitness concerns around Sandro Tonali, and reflects on the frustrating injury to Savio alongside the bright spark of Omar Marmoush. Attention then turns to deadline week drama. We discuss the exhausting circus surrounding Richarlison, the potential arrival of Iliman Ndiaye, and Kevin Danso wanting out, which exposes a glaring lack of aerial dominance across the backline. Jack also shares his heartbreak over Pape Matar Sarr departing for Juventus. Finally, we address the lingering cultural scars of the past two seasons, explaining why Roberto De Zerbi's side must ditch the "Soft Touch FC" tag, embrace a nastier edge, and start laying down markers against the rest of the league. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Jack sidelined recovering from throat surgery, Oly and Rosa of Hometown Glory take the reins to dissect a hectic week of Tottenham Hotspur action and transfer business. We kick off by reviewing the confidence-boosting 5-1 Carabao Cup victory over Charlton. We dish out heavy praise for Matheus Fernandes, ponder Mikey Moore's place after an impressive performance, marvel at Savio's instant goalscoring impact, and ask whether conceding a late goal highlights a lingering aerial vulnerability in the squad. Next, we look at the arrival of Omar Marmoush from Manchester City. We discuss whether his time stuck behind Erling Haaland has masked his true potential, and analyse De Zerbi's glowing praise for the Egyptian's tactical intelligence. We then unpack De Zerbi's latest press conference. With the boss hinting at one final signing, we ask if Cody Gakpo is the missing piece. We also read out De Zerbi's ruthless, no-nonsense quotes regarding player departures and squad discipline, debating whether this is exactly the culture shift fans have been begging for. Finally, we preview the crucial clash against Newcastle United, asking how Sandro Tonali will handle facing his former club and who should fill the third midfield spot alongside him and Fernandes with James Maddison out injured. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Windy from The Extra Inch podcast to digest a miserable opening weekend for Tottenham Hotspur following a heavy defeat to Brentford. We dissect everything that went wrong. Are we simply watching a rebuilt team suffering teething problems under Roberto De Zerbi, or did the physical mismatch expose a deeper cultural rot that still lingers at the club? We look closely at Lucas Bergvall's struggles and ask whether De Zerbi deliberately threw him into the deep end to prove a point, before discussing the ongoing concern of Archie Gray having to fill in as a makeshift right-back. We also examine the worrying lack of dynamism in defence, as Jan Paul van Hecke endured a shocking debut alongside Marcos Senesi. With Micky van de Ven's injury record, how does De Zerbi fix this partnership going forward? Finally, we turn to the transfer market. With the Brentford game exposing a desperate need for attacking reinforcements, we react to Fabrizio Romano's "here we go" for a massive double swoop for Manchester City's Savinho and Omar Marmoush. Are they the right profiles to elevate our front line, and with Cody Gakpo still linked, do we need even more firepower before the window slams shut? Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is back to pick apart that opening day defeat to Brentford. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to a special bonus episode of Rule the Roost! Following our main chat with Spurs presenter and broadcaster Ben Haines, we open up the mailbag to put your questions directly to the man himself. Ben tackles a brilliant mix of the serious, the insightful, and the completely absurd from our listeners and patrons. We dive straight into the media's anti-Spurs bias, discussing how the club internally views narratives like last year's nonsense that Tottenham getting relegated would be good for the Premier League. On the footballing side, we look at Antonin Kinsky's incredible mental recovery since his early exit in Madrid, and explore the general mood heading into the new season, including who has shown the most behind-the-scenes resilience. We also probe whether the players treat media duties as an obligation or if they view Ben as a genuine part of the club fabric. Then, things get a little lighter. We try to extract exactly how much water cooler transfer gossip Ben actually overhears at Hotspur Way, ask the hard-hitting question of which player smells the best, and praise his unflappable professionalism during a near-drenching from the sprinklers alongside a smirking Chris Hughton. Oh, and we also need to know how long it would take him to realise he put his pants on backwards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by broadcaster and Spurs presenter Ben Haines for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the mood, standards, and cultural shifts taking place at Hotspur Way. Ben shares his unique perspective from behind the microphone, reflecting on what it was really like navigating post-match interviews during the toughest moments of last season and the stark turnaround in energy the moment Roberto De Zerbi walked through the door. We discuss De Zerbi's calm and laser-focused approach day-to-day, how the squad balances immense ambition with hard graft, and why it is time for everyone around the club to kill off the tired, self-deprecating tropes for good. We also dive into some brilliant behind-the-scenes stories from the summer, including Ben's impromptu gym session with Antonin Kinský, filming with Xavi Simons, and first impressions of new arrivals Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and Martin Dúbravka. Finally, we explore the conscious effort to heal and strengthen the bond between the club and the stands, the recent first-team and legends lunch, and what it genuinely means for a lifelong fan to represent and tell the story of the club he grew up supporting. (Note: Our patron and listener Q&A with Ben will be released as a standalone bonus episode tomorrow!) Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Rosa from the Hometown Glory podcast to dissect a massive week of Tottenham Hotspur news, transfers, and pre-season action. We kick things off with the confirmed departure of Cristian Romero to Atletico Madrid. Jack has been highly critical of the Argentine recently, but Rosa steps up to fiercely defend his legacy—expect a heated debate on how his time in North London will be remembered. Next, we review the weekend's pre-season double-header against Hoffenheim. We marvel at Sandro Tonali's brilliant performance and discuss what the midfield hierarchy looks like for the likes of Bentancur, Sarr, Bergvall, and Gray sitting behind Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. We also look at the attacking prospects, asking whether the club should still pursue moves for Savinho and Cody Gakpo if it means blocking the pathways of Mathys Tel and Mikey Moore. Defensively, with Andy Robertson tipped for a massive assist haul and Van Hecke and Senesi looking solid, are we comfortable with our depth after selling Djed Spence? Finally, we discuss the breakout potential of 17-year-old Lucá Williams-Barnett, before assessing the massive goalkeeper gamble: with Guglielmo Vicario loaned to Juventus, what happens if Antonin Kinsky fails to step up, and is Martin Dubravka a reliable enough safety net? Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Phil to break down a mammoth week of outgoing and incoming transfer business at Tottenham Hotspur. We kick off with the massive news that Manchester City's Savinho is edging ever closer to a move to North London. While we are still waiting for the official confirmation, we discuss the excitement surrounding his seemingly imminent arrival and what he will bring to Roberto De Zerbi's frontline. We then turn to the headline exit: Cristian Romero sealing a move to Atletico Madrid. We reflect on his turbulent career at the club, weighing up the undeniable highs against the disciplinary lows, and discuss how his relationship with Spurs deteriorated so drastically towards the end. Attention then shifts to a more surprising departure, with Djed Spence heading to Inter Milan. We debate whether the fee represents a cut-price bargain or standard market value once World Cup recency bias is removed, and ask whether letting him leave without immediate cover is a massive risk. We also discuss Micky van de Ven’s lucrative new contract extension. Is making him one of the highest earners at the club a dangerous precedent, or is it simply essential business? Finally, we answer your listener questions, tackling Folarin Balogun's potential North London derby celebrations, phantom transfer targets of years past, and ranking Premier League era captains. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Iain from Poddenham Podspur to dissect the latest online Spurs discourse, transfer rumours, and pre-season action. We start with a meta-look at the Tottenham podcasting landscape over the summer before diving straight into the shocking rumours linking Cristian Romero with a move to Arsenal. Is a deal across North London utterly unacceptable, or is there an uncomfortable, pragmatic "hear me out..." angle to be explored? Next, we reflect on a fiery pre-season clash against Getafe that laid bare Tottenham's current lack of dynamic options in the final third, gauging Iain's anxiety levels as the transfer deadline looms. We also discuss Conor Gallagher following his goal against Getafe, looking at whether his no-thrills, high-workrate style is turning out to be precisely what Roberto De Zerbi needs in the final third. Finally, we assess the fresh links to USMNT striker Folarin Balogun. Living in the States, Iain offers his perspective on whether Balogun would be a commercial shirt-selling exercise or a genuine solution to Spurs' attack. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack jumps on live to chat about Spurs' preseason fixture against Getafe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Billie T to break down all the latest Tottenham Hotspur transfer chaos, fitness updates, and media narratives. We open by weighing up the surprising transfer links surrounding Djed Spence and his reported interest from Liverpool. We dive into the pros and cons of letting him go, alongside Billie's general take on our summer window so far—including why he isn't sold on Cody Gakpo and whether it's time to start worrying about the Savinho deal. Next, we react to exciting training ground footage of Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus putting in full-throttle sprints. With Deki back on the grass, can he be relied upon to hit the ground running in Roberto De Zerbi’s system? Then, we call out the persistent negative media agenda surrounding Spurs. From Darren Lewis claiming we overpaid for Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes to TalkSPORT's Van Hecke comments and Football Ramble questioning our use of non-football revenue—why is the narrative always framed against Tottenham, and are rival fans starting to get scared of our financial clout? Finally, we dive into the listener mailbag to answer your questions, tackling Richarlison vs Solanke, a full squad Battle Royale, ranking managers in a scrap, and whether you'd take a fully fit Maddison or Kulusevski for the entire season. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is back with Tom Hayward to break down all the key talking points following Tottenham's pre-season tour of Australia and New Zealand. We kick off with a dive into the true value of these far-flung summer tours. We call out the puritanical backlash against overseas pre-seasons, highlighting the hypocrisy of ignoring the global nature of modern squad compositions and the commercial realities that sustain top-flight clubs. We also celebrate Mathys Tel's standout pre-season displays, before assessing Antonin Kinsky's performances and debating Henry Winter’s claim that Spurs still desperately need a new number one. Next, we tackle the transfer rumour mill. We break down the Victor Osimhen links and explain why his post-tax wage demands make a move to the Premier League completely non-viable, before turning our attention to the intriguing reports linking Cody Gakpo with North London. Then, we dissect Roberto De Zerbi’s astonishingly open quotes regarding Richarlison’s future as the Brazilian enters the final year of his contract. Is it time to cash in, or can De Zerbi unlock his best form once again? Finally, we answer a listener request to rank Tottenham's Brazilians from best to worst, featuring everyone from Lucas Moura, Sandro, and Heurelho Gomes to Paulinho, Carlos Vinícius, and Gilberto. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack jumps on to discuss this games gone of a preseason fixture between Chelsea and Spurs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Flav from The Fighting Cock to react to a massive week of pre-season news and breaking press conference quotes from Roberto De Zerbi out in Australia. We kick off with De Zerbi's wild "transfer shark" comments, breaking down his declaration that another transfer "bomba" is imminent and speculating on which marquee attacker could be heading to North London next. We then react to the huge news that Dejan Kulusevski is back in full training. Just how vital is a fully fit Kulusevski to Spurs' ambitions this season, and how does his unique creative profile fit into De Zerbi’s tactical setup? Plus, we dissect De Zerbi's astonishingly candid comments regarding Lucas Bergvall's positional demands. This sparks a broader discussion on the vibe shift under the new manager: why Spurs desperately needed a leader who isn't afraid to have uncomfortable conversations, make ruthless decisions, and set uncompromising standards for the squad. We also briefly touch on Mathys Tel’s wonder strike against Sydney FC and why the youth pathway is far from dead at Hotspur Way, before diving into the listener mailbag for your questions! Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tottenham's pre-season rolls on with a win over Sydney FC... on penalties, but a wins a win. It was a largely rotated side, giving a number of youngsters a chance to show their skills. Tel with a wonderful strike to open the scoring, and a frustrating second half with Andy Robertson showing what he's about, nearly creating two more goals. Luca Williams-Barnett also a highlight, as per usual. Ultimately, it's more minutes in the legs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by football writer Jack Gallagher to dive into the massive cultural and tactical shifts happening at Tottenham Hotspur under Roberto De Zerbi. We kick off by looking at the heavy Italian influence running through the club, from the dugout to the blockbuster signing of Sandro Tonali, and ask whether our guest finally has a soft spot for Spurs. Attention then turns to the transfer market and De Zerbi’s ruthless new streak. We discuss the manager's stark ultimatum regarding Lucas Bergvall's future and debate whether letting the highly-rated Swede leave would be a massive mistake or simply an inevitable consequence of Mateus Fernandes' arrival. We also dissect Micky van de Ven’s recent quotes, exploring what his comments reveal about the gloomy atmosphere under Thomas Frank last season and the much-needed injection of passion and offensive football De Zerbi has brought to the group. Finally, we look at the missing pieces of the puzzle. With De Zerbi wanting more attacking talent through the door, we assess our current forward line and discuss whether reported targets like Savinho and Eli Junior Kroupi are the players who can truly move the needle. We wrap up by getting Jack's ultimate predictions for Tottenham in the season ahead. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Bardi to digest Tottenham Hotspur's return to action following their pre-season friendly against MK Dons. We discuss Mateus Fernandes' stunning debut goal and Sandro Tonali's brilliant performance in a double pivot, while looking ahead to how Conor Gallagher and James Maddison might fit into this new-look midfield. With Xavi Simons singing the club's praises and Spurs aiming for the league without the distraction of European football, we debate whether it is time to truly allow ourselves to dream under Roberto De Zerbi. We then weigh up the transfer dilemma: should Spurs push to sign attackers like Savinho, or prioritise minutes for academy standouts like Luca Williams-Barnett and Mikey Moore, especially given the youthful squad taken on the Australia and New Zealand tour? Finally, we dive into a bumper Thursday Q&A, answering listener questions on everything from Mikey Moore's physical transformation and De Zerbi's five-year vision to Colombian cuisine, Shakira, and the Christian Ziege of Steffen Freunds. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Jon Bass to reflect on the climax of the World Cup and look ahead to Tottenham Hotspur's return to action. We open by celebrating Pedro Porro's World Cup triumph with Spain, looking at what it means to have a World Cup-winning player back in N17. We contrast Porro's high with Cristian Romero's tournament, debating whether Roberto De Zerbi will actively look to move Romero on or if he can get the defender fully on side for the campaign ahead. Plus, with Inter Milan reportedly circling for Djed Spence, we ask whether Spurs could realistically sanction a sale given his recent resurgence. Attention then turns to the fast-approaching pre-season friendlies. Is Jon mentally ready for Tottenham to be back, and what sort of side can we expect De Zerbi to field in these early fixtures? Finally, we break down the latest news surrounding Spurs' academy stars. Following Tynan Thompson's £4m move to Manchester United, we address growing fan anxieties over losing top young talent, while weighing it against reports that the club firmly rejected attempts to sign defensive prospect Jun'ai Byfield. We wrap up by assessing the club's overall direction of travel under the new hierarchy. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the final episode of the Rule the Roost World Cup Digest! For one last time, I am wrapping up the 2026 World Cup, dissecting a tense and dramatic final, taking a look at England's chaotic bronze medal match, and reflecting on the tournament as a whole. On today's briefing: Spain the Rightful Kings: Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time thanks to a 106th-minute winner from Ferran Torres. Ultimately, they are the rightful and unsurprising winners. They have now gone a record-breaking 38 matches unbeaten and conceded just one single goal all tournament. A genuinely superb defensive display. An Unpleasant Argentina: It has to be said, this Argentina side were a rather unpleasant bunch in the final. They were negative, cynical, and racked up the cards—culminating in Enzo Fernández being sent off deep into stoppage time and Leandro Paredes seeing red after the final whistle. End of an Era: Is this the end of Lionel Messi’s amazing legacy? It almost certainly is, and it is a real shame to see his World Cup journey conclude with such an ill-tempered, negative final performance from his team. England's 6-4 Alternate Reality: England beat France 6-4 in an absolutely wild third-place play-off. Frankly, the French probably couldn't be bothered, but for England fans, it was actually quite painful to watch. It offered a glimpse into an alternate reality where we played with far less fear than Thomas Tuchel seemingly instilled in the squad for that semi-final defeat to Argentina. Tournament Reflections: I offer some closing thoughts on the tournament as a whole. It was great, but it undeniably seemed to lose a bit of energy towards the end. Is this simply down to the sheer length and exhaustion of an expanded 48-team format? And if so, what on earth will a 64-team World Cup look like? The Bigger Picture: Finally, I ask a deeper question: what does the growing lack of excitement and joy from footballing success say about the current state of the sport, about us as fans, and perhaps even society as a whole? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Baker to digest a dramatic few days of international heartbreak and Tottenham Hotspur transfer news. We open the show with a painful autopsy of England's 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, questioning Thomas Tuchel's in-game management and whether he is to blame for the team dropping too deep after Anthony Gordon's opener. We then switch our focus to Spurs, tackling the massive squad dilemmas facing the club regarding Cristian Romero and Djed Spence. With Luka Vuskovic officially heading to Brighton, did Romero's performance against England prove he is simply too good for the club to even consider selling? And with Spence in such incredible form on the international stage, would letting him leave this summer be a huge mistake? We also marvel at Pedro Porro's unbelievable Team of the Tournament-worthy form for Spain, reflecting on how inspired of a move it was to keep hold of him. Finally, we look at the breaking news regarding Nottingham Forest's rejected £38m bid for Lucas Bergvall. With Spurs reportedly holding out for closer to £50m, we debate whether the club should rinse Forest for every penny or just keep hold of the talented midfielder. We wrap up by briefly touching on our forward options, highlighting Will Lankshear and Mikey Moore as exciting prospects we are desperate to see feature under Roberto De Zerbi this season. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to the Rule the Roost World Cup Digest! We have reached the final four. Gavin joins me to unpack an incredibly strong set of quarter-final results, dissect the manufactured media narratives, and look ahead to a deeply personal and highly charged semi-final for England. France's Flaws: Morocco’s incredible World Cup run ends in a rather forgettable match. France get the job done and are brutally clinical, but do they actually look invincible? We're not so sure. Spain Squeeze Through: A hard-fought 2-1 win for Spain over Belgium. The Belgians showed up and gave a great account of themselves, but Spain’s relentless possession game sees them through—even if Lamine Yamal and the squad look to be lacking a little bit of magic right now. Surviving the Miami Heat: England beat a very handy Norway side in gruelling 34-degree heat. It is funny how quickly the media narrative shifts to downplay the opposition the absolute minute we get a result. Bellingham the Monster: Jude Bellingham is simply operating on another level. Gavin compares his swagger and low centre of gravity to Zinedine Zidane, and we look at how his immense maturity is actively lifting up teammates like Djed Spence. Manufactured Media Drama: Why are Gabriel Clarke and certain sections of the press so desperate to create friction between Thomas Tuchel and the squad? We call out the gutter journalism and offer a timely reminder of the massive foundation Gareth Southgate built to get us here. The Argentina Semi-Final: Argentina take Switzerland to extra time before finally putting them to bed. With my dual English and Argentinian heritage, I explain exactly why I utterly despise this fixture, the toxic historical narratives that always surround it, and why the Falklands chants from the Argentinian players are a total disgrace. A Spiritual Lift: Beyond the football, we discuss why this England team going all the way could provide the exact unifying, positive lift the country desperately needs right now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by lifelong Spurs fan and actor/puppeteer Chris Thatcher for a wide-ranging chat about finding the funny side of following Tottenham Hotspur. We kick off by discussing his brilliant Instagram series, "A day in the life of a Spurs fan," and he shares how creating those comedy videos during the absolute misery of last season's relegation battle actually helped him feel much more attached to the wider Spurs community. We look at the start of a massive new era at Tottenham. With Sandro Tonali officially unveiled and Mateus Fernandes already secured, we spend a good chunk of time discussing the massive potential signings still being linked to the club. From Rafa Leão and Savinho to Cody Gakpo and Antonio Nusa, we debate our dream additions as Spurs finally act like a big club in the market. We discuss whether it's time to truly trust the Lewis family's vision now that they are opening their wallets, and what the expectations should be for Roberto De Zerbi’s first full season in charge.Attention then turns to the World Cup, where we discuss the immaculate vibes coming out of the England camp. We chat about Djed Spence hilariously gatecrashing Morgan Rogers' press conference, before touching on a more serious point about how Spence has been unfairly vilified by the media throughout the tournament and what that says about certain press narratives. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to the Rule the Roost World Cup Digest! It is a massive Round of 16 bumper edition today, and I am thrilled to be joined by Phil to go through the thrills, spills, and the biggest talking points from an absolutely wild knockout stage. On today's 15-minute briefing: Morocco's Fear Factor: Canada gave it a valiant effort, but it is safe to say their race was run. Meanwhile, Morocco are officially announcing themselves at the top table—they are truly a team to be feared now. Are France the New Brazil?: France seem head and shoulders above the rest of the competition right now against Paraguay. But the South Americans showed that there might just be a glimmer of hope for the other nations. Trump's USMNT Intervention: The USA vs Belgium match was completely overshadowed by Trump intervening to have Balogun play. Has this set back the global perception of US football, and who are the real victims of that? On the other side, Belgium seem to be growing into this competition—perhaps leaving their so-called 'golden generation' behind is the best thing that has ever happened to them. Ronaldo's Embarrassing Exit: A total snorefest between Portugal and Spain. Did Portugal sacrifice their own tournament ambitions just to see Cristiano Ronaldo bow out in fairly embarrassing fashion? Honestly, it might be a good thing he's gone now for them. As for Spain, they've been underwhelming to watch, but they are quietly having a strong tournament and haven't conceded a single goal yet. Could they go all the way? Haaland's Majesty: Brazil were ruthlessly put to the sword by a majestic performance from Erling Haaland. After completely dismantling them, where does he now rank amongst the pantheon of world greats? The Swiss Wall: Another snorefest between Switzerland and Colombia, but the Swiss look organised and decent enough. The big question: could they be the team to stop a stuttering Argentina? Argentina Survive Egyptian Masterclass: A sublime performance from the Egyptians, who just couldn't quite get it over the line. But just how good are Argentina actually? Do they have what it takes to go all the way through sheer force of will alone? A Different England?: Are England genuinely a different beast now after getting past Mexico? Jude Bellingham at 23 is already one of the greats, and the chance to see Harry Kane lift the trophy and be immortalised is a joy to behold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Gavin for a jam-packed episode covering all the drama on the international stage and the latest movements at Hotspur Way. We kick things off with a deep dive into the World Cup, reacting to England's absolute heroics in their thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Estadio Azteca. We discuss the tantalising prospect of Harry Kane lifting the trophy and being immortalised as a World Cup-winning captain, and debate where this brilliant tournament ranks among the best in recent years. We also tackle the bizarre political backdrop of the competition, looking at the troubling reports of FIFA seemingly being coerced into allowing Folarin Balogun to play following pressure from Donald Trump. Attention then turns back to Tottenham Hotspur, as we share our sheer excitement over the impending arrival of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle. We break down how he will mesh with Mateus Fernandes in Roberto De Zerbi’s midfield, what this new-look engine room means for the season ahead, and the wider implications of the Lewis family finally embracing a free-spending approach. Are we finally witnessing the dawn of a massive new era for the club? Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Ornstein has dropped the bomba this evening that Spurs are spending around the £100m mark for Sandro Tonali from Newcastle... THEY SHOULD HAVE RELEGATED US!! Finally, we're acting like a big club... unreal times!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by football.london’s Alasdair Gold to escape the sweltering UK heatwave and take a welcome step back from the frantic transfer window. In a relaxed, wide-ranging discussion, we explore Alasdair's personal journey on the Tottenham beat, looking at what it really takes to cover the club through recent turbulent seasons and finding reasons to look forward to brighter days ahead. We chat about the shifting landscape at Hotspur Way following the confirmation of the Mateus Fernandes deal and the ongoing pursuit of Sandro Tonali. We also reflect on the broader strategy behind Roberto De Zerbi’s squad rebuild, touching on the breaking news of Luka Vuskovic’s move to Brighton and what it means when a manager is given the backing to shape a squad in his own image. From debating whether fans can place their long-term trust in the Lewis family’s ultimate vision for the club, to exploring Alasdair's deep love of cinema and his passion project YouTube channel Gold Goes To The Movies, this is a close-season conversation focused on the bigger picture. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jack is joined by Ricky from Lads Anon and The Fighting Cock to digest the latest Tottenham Hotspur transfer news and international talking points. We kick things off with some England World Cup chatter, focusing on the frustrating media fallacy that Harry Kane is only now being recognised as a truly great player because he left Spurs, completely ignoring the world-class levels he consistently hit during his time in N17. We also discuss exactly what this England side needs to do to go all the way and win the competition. Attention then turns back to Tottenham, starting with the news that the club has turned down several serious bids for young striker Will Lankshear. Does this show a commendable faith in youth, or is it a worrying sign that we aren't in the market for a new number nine? We evaluate whether a striking rotation of Dominic Solanke, Richarlison, and Lankshear is enough firepower for the upcoming campaign. We also dive into our midfield hunt following the news that Manchester United have entered the race for Mateus Fernandes after Manuel Ugarte's injury at the World Cup. Does this signal game over for Spurs? We look at the wider strategy of putting all our eggs into the Sandro Tonali and Fernandes baskets, and debate whether a pivot to Bournemouth's Alex Scott—a boyhood Spurs fan—might be the smarter move. Finally, we wrap up the show as Ricky answers your listener questions. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's 15-minute briefing: The Pepe Mystery: Côte d'Ivoire secure a 2-0 win over Curaçao, lit up by a couple of absolute belters from Nicolas Pépé. Watching him strike them makes me wonder all over again: why on earth was he so poor during his time at Arsenal? Germany Stunned: Ecuador confirm their place in the Round of 32 with a thoroughly impressive 2-1 victory over Germany. This is exactly the kind of result that Scottish fans would have had a very keen eye on as the groups shake out. Dutch Dark Horses?: The Netherlands pick up a 3-1 win over Tunisia, featuring a lovely goal from Jan Paul van Hecke. It begs the question: are the Dutch quietly turning into genuine dark horses for this competition? Elanga's Math Blunder: A 1-1 draw sees both Japan and Sweden confirm their places in the next round. The funniest moment came from Anthony Elanga, who genuinely thought Sweden were knocked out at the whistle... spoiler alert, Anthony, they weren't! A Bump on the Nose for the USA: Turkey finally show the world what they are actually about, giving the USA a proper bump on the nose on their way out of the tournament with a 3-2 win. It's a timely reminder for Pochettino's men that they absolutely have to stay sharp if they want to go deep. Get In, Australia: A gritty 0-0 draw against Paraguay means the Aussies are officially through to the knockout stages! Well in. They’ve lined up a tie against Egypt next, which promises to be a cracking game. Norway’s Bizarre Rotation: Norway, with qualification already secured, decided to rotate their entire starting eleven against France and got soundly beaten 4-1. I have to ask: isn't the entire point of being at a World Cup having the opportunity to flex your best lineup against one of the greatest sides on the planet? Baffling decision. Senegal Smash Iraq: Pape Gueye hit a couple of eye-catching screamers as Senegal gave themselves every chance of a best third-place berth, dismantling Iraq 5-0. I can confirm their progress was officially locked in a few hours later following the conclusion of the Group G fixtures. Cape Verde’s Glamour Tie: A 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia means Cape Verde's absolute fairytale World Cup dream continues. They have lined up a massive glamour tie against Messi's Argentina in the Round of 32... and honestly, who knows? The way this tournament is going, maybe they could spring a monumental surprise. Bielsa in Meltdown: Spain navigate a tricky 1-0 match against Uruguay to top the group, a result that completely sent Marcelo Bielsa into absolute meltdown on the touchline. Belgium Finally Show Up: A comprehensive 5-1 routing of New Zealand sees the Belgians finally look like a football team, driven by an inspired, top-tier performance from Leandro Trossard. Injury Time Chaos for Iran: High, unadulterated drama between Egypt and Iran. Iran have more than likely secured their place in the Round of 32, but it was pure chaos at the death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Phil and Jack brave the sweltering UK heatwave to bring you a comprehensive update on all things Tottenham Hotspur. We kick off by reflecting on England's stuttering World Cup campaign before diving into Jan Paul van Hecke's outrageous, record-breaking performance for the Netherlands. After smashing tournament statistics for touches and passes, did Spurs pull off a masterstroke by paying a premium to secure him before his value skyrocketed? We then unpack some defensive dilemmas, discussing reports that Cristian Romero is encouraged by Roberto De Zerbi and wants to stay, and what Micky van de Ven's awkward left-back appearances mean for his structural role at Spurs. We also look at the latest on the Sandro Tonali saga following Craig Hope's exclusive update, question whether Newcastle's stubbornness will ultimately break, and analyse the stats behind West Ham's Mateus Fernandes to see if he's the perfect technical engine for our midfield. Finally, we wrap up with thoughts on Martin Dubravka arriving as our new passing goalkeeper. Theme is Ghost Cat by Gillen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's 15-minute briefing: Hate Watchers in Disarray: Portugal completely dismantle Uzbekistan 5-0. The big talking point? Cristiano Ronaldo finally gets himself on the scoresheet, leaving the hate watchers in absolute disarray. England Frustrated by Ghana: A tricky, frustrating goalless draw for England as Ghana dug incredibly deep to earn a well-deserved point. It leaves me with one major question: should Ghana have actually had a penalty in this one? Croatia Keep the Dream Alive: Croatia did exactly what they needed to do against Panama. A narrow 1-0 win, but it puts three vital points on the board to keep their World Cup campaign alive. Colombia’s Goalkeeping Obstacle: Colombia spent the match rifling long shot after long shot against DR Congo, only to eventually settle it with a bit of a tap-in. We saw some more spectacular goalkeeping on display, and despite having three separate goals disallowed, Colombia get the win and march into the Round of 32. Host Nation Joy Continues: A fairly uneventful 2-1 win for Switzerland over Canada, but the big news is that both teams are safely through to the next round. Huge well done to Canada for keeping the host nation joy alive and kicking. Alajbegovic — Remember the Name: Bosnia and Herzegovina progress with a 3-1 win over Qatar, lit up by an absolute screamer from Kerim Alajbegović. Remember the name. At 2-1 Qatar were piling on some serious pressure, but ultimately it wasn't enough to stop the Bosnians going through. Goal of the Tournament?: Morocco were made to work hard for their 4-2 win over Haiti, but it was illuminated by a strike from Wilson Isidor. Is that the goal of the tournament thus far? No Joy for the Tartan Army: A harsh 3-0 defeat for Scotland against Brazil, which leaves them all but out of the competition. I don't feel the scoreline is an entirely fair reflection of how the game actually went, but Brazil were utterly clinical with the chances they created. Historic South African Shock: Surely one of the biggest shocks of the tournament so far. South Africa secure a famous 1-0 win to cruise into the Round of 32 for the first time in their history, dumping out a South Korea side who have looked largely underwhelming throughout this World Cup. Mexico’s Home Warning: Another massive 3-0 result for Mexico on home soil against Czechia. Luis Chávez’s first international goal was an absolute beauty. They are looking dangerous—I certainly wouldn't want England drawing them anytime soon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's 15-minute briefing: Spain Kick Into Gear: Spain are finally looking the part against Saudi Arabia. Dani Olmo is just such a wonderful player, and with Lamine Yamal in the side, they can probably pose a massive problem to absolutely anyone. Belgium Underwhelm: Belgium underwhelm yet again, but I have to give a massive shout out to Iran, who dug deep to pick up a huge point. The Story of the Tournament: Are Cape Verde the story of the World Cup? Going toe-to-toe with Spain and now Uruguay—it is incredible to watch. Egypt Get the Job Done: Egypt show up and get a result against New Zealand that was probably expected of them, but you have to give credit to NZ, who made them work incredibly hard for it. Messi Makes History: Lionel Messi becomes the outright World Cup leading scorer with two great finishes against Austria, surely solidifying himself as the GOAT. He did miss a penalty though, which makes me wonder: did he miss it on purpose because he didn't want to break the record with a pen? Either way, Argentina are safely through to the next round. France Battle the Elements: Despite a chaotic two-hour rain delay against Iraq, Kylian Mbappe just keeps the goals coming. But once again, Michael Olise is looking like one of the best players in the world right now. France also book their spot in the next round. Haaland vs Mbappe Awaits: Erling Haaland bags two against Senegal, who are genuinely a good side and managed to cut right through Norway's defence. That vulnerability is going to be fascinating to watch in their upcoming clash with France—it is officially Haaland vs Mbappe. Jordan Say Goodbye: Finally, Jordan officially exit the competition after their result against Algeria. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices