The Athletic FC Podcast

How do England stop Erling Haaland?

<p>It’s Day 30 and France are into the semi-finals of the World Cup after a 2-0 victory over Morocco.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined in the studio by Liam Twomey and Cerys Jones to discuss the first quarter-final and the Golden Boot race, with Kylian Mbappe now level with Lionel Messi on eight goals for the tournament. Adam Crafton drops in from Boston for this one.</p><br><p>Man City correspondent Sam Lee also joins the panel to talk Erling Haaland, who England will have the tough task of attempting to stop when they face Norway on Saturday.</p><br><p>There’s also the latest on selection doubts for Thomas Tuchel over key pair Declan Rice and Marc Guehi ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>Guests: Liam Twomey, Cerys Jones</p><p>Featuring: Sam Lee, Adam Crafton</p><p>Exec Producers: Adey Moorhead, Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Videographer: Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

FIFA, Trump and Balogun: The scandal that shook the World Cup

<p>On Sunday, The Athletic broke the world exclusive that USA striker Folarin Balogun's ban for the USMNT's round of 16 tie against Belgium had been suspended.</p><br><p>Adam Crafton and Dan Sheldon, who broke the news, join Ian Irving and Cerys Jones to look back on the controversy, which included the involvement of US President Donald Trump calling FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the build-up to the USA's game with Belgium.</p><br><p>Former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard shares his perspective from a players' perspective as to the impact the whole episode will have had on the USA's preparations for the game, while Jerry Brewer, senior columnist for The Athletic gives his view on the damage the controversy will have on soccer in the USA as well as US Soccer.</p><br><p>Host: Ian Irving</p><p>With: Cerys Jones, Adam Crafton and Dan Sheldon</p><p>Featuring: Tim Howard and Jerry Brewer</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Argentina are inevitable + Ornstein on Man United transfers

<p>Argentina are through to the quarter-finals of the World Cup after an incredible comeback win against Egypt.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is in the studio alongside The Athletic’s Mark Critchley and Liam Twomey to discuss how Lionel Scaloni’s side are able to look unconvincing, yet still win. James Horncastle drops in from Atlanta for this one.</p><br><p>With Switzerland also through after beating Colombia on penalties, the panel look ahead to the quarter-finals with all eight teams now in the draw.</p><br><p>And David Ornstein brings us the latest in the transfer market, from Manchester United’s midfield search, to Arsenal’s inactivity and Newcastle’s potential incomings.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Liam Twomey and Mark Critchley</p><p>Featuring: James Horncastle and David Ornstein</p><p>Executive Producers: Adey Moorhead and Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Was the USA's World Cup a success or failure?

<p>The USMNT are out of the World Cup after defeat to Belgium.</p><br><p>While the Folarin Balogun situation dominated the build-up, the headlines centre around the USA’s elimination, after falling to a 4-1 defeat in the Round of 16.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic’s Jay Harris and Mark Critchley in the studio to dissect the match, with Henry Bushnell dropping by for immediate reaction from Seattle.</p><br><p>Elsewhere, Reuben Pinder witnessed Spain beating Portugal 1-0 - with Cristiano Ronaldo the story once again.</p><br><p>Plus, Paul Taylor brings us the latest on Nottingham Forest’s move for former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Jay Harris and Mark Critchley</p><p>Featuring: Henry Bushnell, Reuben Pinder and Paul Taylor&nbsp;</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

England’s Azteca heroics + inside Trump’s Balogun call

<p>England are through the quarter-final of the World Cup, following an instant classic in the Azteca against Mexico.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined by Art De Roche and Cerys Jones to pick the bones out of England's 3-2 win over Mexico, with Jack Pitt-Brooke providing his take from Mexico City.</p><br><p>Matt Slater also drops by from Times Square, reacting to Norway's 2-1 win over Brazil, to set-up Saturday's semi-final in Miami with England.</p><br><p>While there was plenty of drama on the pitch, Dan Sheldon and Adam Crafton join to explain their the news they exclusively broke that USA's Folarin Balogun is now available for their round of 16 clash with Belgium, with it later emerging US President Donald Trump made a phone call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino ahead of Balogun's one-game ban being suspended.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Art De Roche and Cerys Jones</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How can England conquer the Azteca?

<p>It’s Day 24 and our focus is fully on England’s trip to the Azteca to take on Mexico.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by Cerys Jones and Liam Tharme to recap the World Cup action as Argentina edged past Cape Verde to secure their place in the Round of 16 - James Horncastle drops in from Miami for that one.</p><br><p>In terms of England, there’s been plenty of drama in the build-up to this one. Kick-off is still 1AM UK time - despite a day of confusion. Matt Slater brings us all of the details on that situation, while Jack Lang has the lowdown on what Thomas Tuchel’s side will face in the Azteca.</p><br><p>And ahead of the Round of 16, we look ahead to Saturday’s matches - France vs Paraguay and Canada vs Morocco - as well as a quick preview of Sunday’s big one - Norway vs Brazil.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Cerys Jones and Liam Tharme</p><p>Featuring: James Horncastle, Matt Slater and Jack Lang</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Portugal survive + why are Newcastle selling their best players?

<p>Newcastle United are set to receive £100m for midfielder Sandro Tonali, but where does that leave their aspirations?</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by Cerys Jones and Art De Roche to discuss the latest at the World Cup and in the transfer window.</p><br><p>David Ornstein reports on Tonali's imminent move to Spurs, before we look at the latest from the World Cup with Matt Slater recapping an enthralling 2-1 win for Portugal over Croatia.</p><br><p>The Athletic's Newcastle United writer also joins to discuss the impact of the sale of Tonali as well as interest in other key players including captain Bruno Guimaraes.</p><br><p>Plus, we have a look ahead to Day 23 at the World Cup with Lionel Messi looking to go clear of Kylian Mbappe in the golden boot race.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Cerys Jones and Art De Roche</p><p>Featuring: David Ornstein, Matt Slater and Chris Waugh</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Can Kane keep saving England?

<p>England left it late but got the job done, thanks to Harry Kane.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Carl Anka and Liam Twomey after England's emotional come-from-behind win against DR Congo as our England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke poses the question; is Kane England's greatest player ever?</p><br><p>Away from England's win, the USA and Belgium also progressed to face one another in the Round of 16. Henry Bushnell reports from the USMNT's win over Bosnia &amp; Herzegovina including a controversial red card for Folarin Balogun, while Belgium had to come from 2-0 down to see off Senegal.</p><br><p>And ahead of the Day 22 action, Matt Slater joins us from Toronto ahead of Portugal taking on Croatia to discuss how the cities he's visited have connected with the tournament as well as what tournament preconceptions he had that he may have changed his opinion on.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Carl Anka and Liam Twomey</p><p>Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Henry Bushnell and Matt Slater</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

France look unstoppable + Spurs win Fernandes race

<p>France's superstars continue to sparkle, as Kylian Mbappe's brace helped to see off Sweden 3-0 in at the MetLife.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined by Mark Critchley and Carl Anka to discuss France's free-flowing attack with Adam Crafton also posing the question: are France unstoppable? We also hear from Felipe Cardenas after Mexico's 2-0 win over Ecuador setting up a potential Round of 16 clash with England.</p><br><p>David Ornstein drops by with the latest from the transfer window as Tottenham Hotspur win the race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United in a deal worth £85m. Where does this leave Man United's search for midfield reinforcements?</p><br><p>Plus, ahead of the USA taking on Bosnia &amp; Herzegovina, Henry Bushnell drops by to preview the game and the significance reaching a run to the quarter-finals could have for the USMNT.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Mark Critchley and Carl Anka</p><p>Featuring: Adam Crafton, Felipe Cardenas, David Ornstein and Henry Bushnell</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Germany hit new low + Ornstein transfer latest

<p>Four-time World Cup winners Germany are out. So too are the Netherlands and Japan after a dramatic day at the World Cup.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is alongside Mark Critchley and Cerys Jones to look back on the action. Matt Slater shares his view from Boston after seeing Germany dumped out on penalties, losing their first-ever World Cup shootout to Paraguay.</p><br><p>David Ornstein joins us to discuss the latest in the transfer market including Chelsea's move for Granit Xhaka as well as their reaction to confirmation Enzo Maresca has succeeded Pep Guardiola as manager of Man City.</p><br><p>Plus, there's a look ahead to England's Round of 32 tie with DR Congo, a preview of the Day 20 action as well as our daily 'do you know' trivia.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Mark Critchley &amp; Cerys Jones</p><p>Featuring: Matt Slater, David Ornstein and Jack Pitt-Brooke</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale &amp; Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Which dark horse will go furthest at the World Cup?

<p>Canada saw off South Africa as the knockout stages got underway at the World Cup, with some big games to come on Day 19.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme as they assess Canada's win with Josh Kloke explaining the significance of a knockout victory for the co-hosts.</p><br><p>There's then a look at the World Cup bracket with the panel making their predictions as to who will make the final four of the competition.</p><br><p>Ahead of the Netherlands taking on Morocco in one of the ties of the round, Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero joins from Monterrey to preview the game, explain the mood in the city as well as the possibility of an England v Mexico tie in the Azteca Stadium in the next round.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme</p><p>Featuring: Josh Kloke and Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why are England struggling to convince?

<p>Despite a 2-0 win over Panama with Jude Bellingham playing a crucial role, Thomas Tuchel's England still lack conviction.</p><br><p>Joining Adam Leventhal to get stuck into England's final group stage performance are Tim Spiers and Art De Roche, with Jack Pitt-Brooke sharing his thoughts from the MetLife Stadium.</p><br><p>With the group stage now completed there's also discussion around some of the big talking points as Lionel Messi moves onto six goals at the tournament, nine of the 10 African sides have reached the knockout stage - and Scotland head coach Steve Clarke resigns, with Jordan Campbell providing reaction in Boston.</p><br><p>Plus, ahead of the knockouts beginning there's some bracket projections before our Canada correspondent Josh Kloke previews Canada's tie with South Africa.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Tim Spiers and Art De Roche</p><p>Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Jordan Campbell and Josh Kloke</p><p>Producers: Guy Clarke and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How did Man City win the Elliot Anderson race?

<p>The transfer window is truly up and running as Manchester City have agreed a £116million deal to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest - the most ever paid for a British player.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined in-studio by Cerys Jones and Tim Spiers to discuss the massive move for the England midfielder. Football correspondent David Ornstein drops in for the latest details on the deal, and Man City writer Sam Lee joins the panel to analyse why the club were so adamant on signing Anderson from Nottingham Forest.</p><br><p>Meanwhile, at the World Cup, Ecuador had its greatest football moment as they qualified for the knockout stages with a 2-1 win over Germany, while Ivory Coast, Australia, the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden joined the USA in booking their place in the next round.</p><br><p>The panel also discuss their breakout player of the tournament so far, plus, there's our daily 'do you know' trivia as well as a profile of our latest Star of Soccer, Iran’s Beiranvand</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Cerys Jones &amp; Tim Spiers</p><p>Featuring: David Ornstein &amp; Sam Lee</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale &amp; Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Are Ancelotti's Brazil serious World Cup contenders?

<p>Brazil broke Scottish hearts on day 14 at the World Cup, running out 3-0 winners to leave the Scots' hopes of securing qualification hanging by a thread.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined by Cerys Jones and Carl Anka to react to just how strong Brazil are, with James Horncastle highlighting the demeanour of boss Carlo Ancelotti.</p><br><p>Canada saw their hopes of staying on home soil in the knockout phases slip through their fingers, while we're also joined by Adam Crafton to discuss some of the key themes of the tournament so far two weeks into the action.</p><br><p>Plus there's our daily 'do you know' trivia and Japan's Ayase Ueda features as our Star of Soccer ahead of their final group game against Sweden.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Cerys Jones and Carl Anka</p><p>Featuring: James Horncastle and Adam Crafton</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Why were England so flat against Ghana?

<p>The storylines keep on flowing at this summer’s World Cup, this time, the goals dried up for England in a 0-0 draw with Ghana in Group L.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined in-studio by Carl Anka and Liam Twomey as we discuss the World Cup action on Day 14.</p><br><p>Jack Pitt-Brooke drops by to try and explain why Thomas Tuchel’s side struggled to break down Ghana. Plus, Nick Miller reports from Houston on the day Cristiano Ronaldo netted his first two goals at this summer’s tournament in Portugal’s 5-0 win over Uzbekistan</p><br><p>We also round-up the latest bracket projections for the knockout rounds and look ahead to Scotland’s clash against Brazil.</p><br><p>There's our daily 'do you know' trivia as well as a profile of our latest Star of Soccer, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Kerim Alajbegovic.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Carl Anka and Liam Twomey</p><p>Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke and Nick Miller</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ornstein transfer latest: Tonali, Bergvall, Balogun

<p>As the World Cup ticks over to Day 13, the summer transfer window is still making waves.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined in-studio by Mark Critchley and Tim Spiers as we discuss the World Cup action as well as getting the latest from David Ornstein on the midfield merry-go-round.</p><br><p>With Sandro Tonali, Lucas Bergvall, Elliot Anderson, Mateus Fernandes and Alex Scott potentially on the move, the dominos are starting to fall into place. David also brings us his latest one to watch from this week's DealSheet on The Athletic - USMNT’s Folarin Balogun.</p><br><p>We also round-up the Lionel Messi show as the Argentine inspired his nation to a 2-0 win over Austria, becoming the World Cup’s top goalscorer of all time in the process. Matt Slater checks in from a rain-delayed 3-0 win for France over Iraq, as Kylian Mbappe also netted twice. Plus, Erling Haaland was at it again with a brace in a 3-2 win over Senegal.</p><br><p>There's also our daily 'do you know' trivia as well as a profile of our latest Star of Soccer, Croatia’s Martin Baturina</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Mark Critchley and Tim Spiers</p><p>Featuring: Matt Slater and David Ornstein</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who is winning the World Cup so far?

<p>With 121 goals scored across 40 games, the excitement just keeps coming at this summer's World Cup.</p><br><p>To dive into the latest action, Emma Paton is joined by The Athletic's Mark Critchley and Cerys Jones. Pol Ballus reports from Atlanta after seeing Spain secure their first win of the tournament.</p><br><p>Attention also turns to both France and Argentina ahead of their second group matches with both having put in statement showings last time out, while Jack Pitt-Brooke feeds back the mood in the England camp from Kansas.</p><br><p>Plus there's our latest 'do you know' trivia question, Jens Petter Hauge as our Star of Soccer and Ray Winstone shares his World Cup memories with The Athletic.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Mark Critchley and Cerys Jones</p><p>Featuring Pol Ballus and Jack Pitt-Brooke</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

How far can Pochettino take the USA?

<p>It’s Day 10 of the World Cup, and the USMNT are through to the knockouts after a 2-0 win over Australia.</p><br><p>Ian Irving is joined in-studio by Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme as we discuss another impressive performance from Mauricio Pochettino’s side. Henry Bushnell drops in to give the lowdown from Seattle and asks if the USA can actually go all the way.&nbsp;</p><br><p>We catch up with James Horncastle who was in Philadelphia for Brazil’s win over Haiti, and, we analyse Scotland’s chances of progression to the last-32 after defeat to Morocco.</p><br><p>There's also our daily 'do you know' trivia as well as a profile of our latest Star of Soccer, Ecuador and Chelsea’s Kendry Paez.</p><br><p>Host: Ian Irving</p><p>Guests: Liam Twomey &amp; Liam Tharme</p><p>Featuring: Henry Bushnell, James Horncastle, Jordan Campbell</p><p>Exec Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou</p><p>Videographer: Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ornstein transfer latest: Liverpool + Spurs make big moves

<p>While all eyes are on the World Cup, the summer transfer window is also now beginning to hot up!</p><br><p>Ian Irving is joined in-studio by Jay Harris and Tim Spiers as we discuss the latest from the World Cup as well as checking in with David Ornstein on the latest on the transfer front.</p><br><p>With Liverpool confirming the signing of Victor Munoz what could it mean for their pursuit of Yan Diomande, while Spurs have signing Jan Paul van Hecke but remain interested in Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali.</p><br><p>We also round-up the latest from day eight at the World Cup with Josh Kloke reporting on Canada's first-ever World Cup win as well as USMNT writer Henry Bushnell bringing us up to speed with the mood in the camp ahead of taking on Australia.</p><br><p>Plus there's our daily 'do you know' trivia as well as a profile of our latest Star of Soccer, Morocco's Yassine Bounou.</p><br><p>Host: Ian Irving</p><p>With: Jay Harris and Tim Spiers</p><p>Featuring: Josh Kloke, David Ornstein and Henry Bushnell</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Are England fun again? Will Ronaldo ever be dropped?

<p>England's World Cup started with an impressive 4-2 win over Croatia, with Harry Kane scoring twice.</p><br><p>Emma Paton is joined by Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme to react to England's performance, especially as they burst into life in the second half, with England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke sharing his thoughts from Dallas.</p><br><p>Nick Miller in Houston reports on Cristiano Ronaldo's disappointing tournament opener as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo.</p><br><p>We also have our daily 'Do you know' quiz, Lee Kang-In is our latest Star of Soccer and Jacob Whitehead joins us to discuss Elye Wahi being arrested for alleged fixing offences on eve of tournament.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Liam Twomey and Liam Tharme</p><p>Featuring: Jack Pitt-Brooke, Nick Miller and Jacob Whitehead</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Messi outshines Mbappe and Haaland + why Amorim for Milan?

<p>The stars have arrived at the World Cup!</p><br><p>After Kylian Mbappe became France's all time top scorer with a brace against Senegal, Lionel Messi did Lionel Messi things, scoring a hat-trick against Algeria to equal Miroslav Klose's record for World Cup goals.</p><br><p>Join Emma Paton, Mark Critchley and Liam Twomey as they reflect on a day where the superstars truly arrived, as Erling Haaland also made his mark on his first World Cup appearance.</p><br><p>We hear from Oli Kay who was at Kansas City Stadium to witness Messi's magic, twenty years on from his World Cup debut, while Adam Crafton was at MetLife Stadium to see the Mbappe show.</p><br><p>Plus, James Horncastle reveals why AC Milan have appointed Ruben Amorim and Jack Pitt-Brooke reflects on England's press conference where Thomas Tuchel and Harry Kane prepare to face Croatia.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Mark Critchley &amp; Liam Twomey</p><p>Featuring: Adam Crafton, Oli Kay, James Horncastle, Jack Pitt-Brooke</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Spain stunned + inside England's preparations

<p>Day five of the World Cup saw all four matches end in draws, including Cape Verde's shock 0-0 stalemate against European champions Spain.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined in-studio by Jay Harris and Mark Critchley with our England correspondent Jack Pitt-Brooke providing the latest from the Three Lions camp in Kansas City, including dressing room dynamics and selection dilemmas for Thomas Tuchel.</p><br><p>Pol Ballus reacts to the surprise Spain result and Laurie Whitwell is on hand to recap what happened on and off-pitch as Iran drew 2-2 with New Zealand.</p><br><p>Plus, Argentina's Nico Paz is our Star of Soccer as the reigning champions prepare to kick off their World Cup campaign against Algeria.</p><br><p>Check out Nick Miller's piece on 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha here: <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7363785/2026/06/15/vozinha-cape-verde-goalkeeper-spain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7363785/2026/06/15/vozinha-cape-verde-goalkeeper-spain/</a></p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Jay Harris and Mark Critchley</p><p>Featuring: Pol Ballus, Laurie Whitwell and Jack Pitt-Brooke</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Ornstein latest: Real Madrid sign Cucurella + Diomande lights up World Cup

<p>Day four of the World Cup saw no fewer than 19 goals, while away from the tournament Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of Marc Cucurella from Chelsea.</p><br><p>Adam Leventhal is joined in-studio by Charlie Eccleshare and Tim Spiers with David Ornstein dropping by to discuss Real Madrid's deal to sign Cucurella, how Jose Mourinho is looking to rebuild at the Bernanbeu and how the deal impacts Chelsea.</p><br><p>Chris Branch and Matt Slater look back on Germany's win over Curacao and Yan Diomande starring in Ivory Coast's victory against Ecuador.</p><br><p>Plus, Laurie Whitwell reports from Iran's preparations to face New Zealand in Los Angeles and there's focus on today's Star of Soccer Fede Valverde.</p><br><p>Check out The Athletic's World Cup predictor <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/interactive/fifa-mens-world-cup-2026-tracker/group-knockout-team-by-team-forecast/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Charlie Eccleshare and Tim Spiers</p><p>Featuring: Chris Branch, Matt Slater, David Ornstein, Laurie Whitwell</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

USA's statement win + can Brazil lift a sixth World Cup?

<p>Join Adam Leventhal, Art de Roché and Tim Spiers as they reflect on the USMNT's thrashing of Paraguay, before turning their attention to whether Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil can win a sixth World Cup ahead of their opening fixture against Morocco.</p><br><p>Plus, we hear from Henry Bushnell who was at Los Angeles Stadium &amp; Jordan Campbell drops by to preview Scotland's opener against Haiti.</p><br><p>Access to all of The Athletic's World Cup coverage is free via our app during the duration of the World Cup!</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Art de Roché and Tim Spiers</p><p>Featuring: Henry Bushnell &amp; Jordan Campbell</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale &amp; Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Will the USMNT ever produce a global superstar?

<p>The 2026 World Cup is underway!</p><br><p>Join Adam Leventhal, Art de Roché and Cerys Jones as they reflect on an eventful opening day before asking why the USA have never produced a truly global superstar.</p><br><p>Jack Lang was at Estadio Azteca and recounts Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa that saw him showered in beer, while Henry Bushnell looks ahead to the USMNT’s opener against Paraguay.</p><br><p>Plus, we hear from Joshua Kloke on Canada’s first game, in what he describes as ‘the biggest in Canadian soccer history'.</p><br><p>Access to all of The Athletic's World Cup coverage is free via our app during the duration of the World Cup!</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Art de Roché and Cerys Jones</p><p>Featuring: Jack Lang, Henry Bushnell, Joshua Kloke</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

An Idiot's Guide to the 2026 World Cup

<p>The 2026 World Cup starts here! Well, in Mexico City as co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa.</p><br><p>Join Adam Leventhal, Jay Harris and Cerys Jones as they give you the lowdown on everything you need to know ahead of the tournament getting underway.</p><br><p>Jack Lang reflects on Gianni Infantino's press conference on the eve of the tournament, while Felipe Cardenas gives us the lowdown on what to expect from Mexico, before we analyse their bright-young hope, Gilberto Mora as part of The Athletic's Stars of Soccer!</p><br><p>Access to all of The Athletic's World Cup coverage is free via our app during the duration of the World Cup!</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Jay Harris and Cerys Jones</p><p>Featuring: Jack Lang and Felipe Cardenas</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Will the World Cup rip-off pay off?

<p>On the eve of the World Cup getting underway there are many outstanding off-field issues to discuss.</p><br><p>Ahead of the tournament Adam Leventhal is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton, Matt Slater and Jay Harris to explore issues such as visas, ticketing and what success represents to each of the host nations.</p><br><p>Host: Adam Leventhal</p><p>With: Matt Slater, Adam Crafton and Jay Harris</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Who will actually win the World Cup?

<p>Today we're continuing our build up to The World Cup. as we assess the favourites to win the tournament - and even make some predictions too.</p><br><p>So who are the contenders, and who could spring a surprise this summer?</p><br><p>Plus, we ask former England goalkeeper Rob Green what it’s actually like to play at a World Cup.</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>Guests: Rob Green, Mark Critchley, Liam Twomey</p><p>Exec Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producer: Mike Stavrou</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

David Ornstein's World Cup transfer watchlist

<p>As the World Cup gets underway on Thursday, we're here to look ahead to which deals could happen this summer.</p><br><p>David Ornstein joins The Athletic FC's new signing Emma Paton as well as Jay Harris and Mark Critchley to discuss a number of the big deals that could be completed.</p><br><p>There's the latest on Man City's pursuit of Elliot Anderson as well as Liverpool's interest in RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande.</p><br><p>Plus, who are the players to watch out for at the World Cup this summer - and which are the best World Cup signings of years gone by?</p><br><p>Host: Emma Paton</p><p>With: Jay Harris, Mark Critchley and David Ornstein</p><p>Executive Producer: Guy Clarke</p><p>Producers: Jay Beale and Liam Warburton</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>

Emma Paton joins The Athletic FC Podcast for The World Cup

<p>We're delighted to welcome Emma Paton to The Athletic FC Podcast team for the World Cup.</p><br><p>Emma is a renowned presenter and broadcaster in the UK having worked as a presenter at Sky Sports since 2019 and will join the rest of the team, including Adam Leventhal, David Ornstein, Adam Crafton, Matt Slater, James Horncastle and many more from the biggest sports newsroom ever assembled.</p><br><p>Join us from Monday June 8th!</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>