EPISODE · Jun 23, 2026 · 54 MIN
Messi's Historic Record, Mbappé's Hunt, Bruce Arena talks USMNT & Haaland's Rise
from The Cooligans · host Alexis Guerreros & Christian Polanco, Alexis Guerreros, Christian Polanco, Bruce Arena
Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to another historic milestone for Lionel Messi as he becomes the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. The guys debate whether Messi still needs another World Cup title to put the GOAT debate to bed once and for all, and whether Kylian Mbappé—already with 16 World Cup goals at age 27—has a realistic chance of chasing down Messi's record before this tournament is over. Next, The Cooligans are joined by legendary former USMNT head coach Bruce Arena. Bruce discusses whether this current American side is the strongest in program history, explains how Mauricio Pochettino has changed the culture around soccer in the United States, and answers the biggest question facing the country right now: can the USMNT actually win the World Cup? One of the most successful coaches in American soccer history shares his perspective on the team's evolution and the expectations surrounding this generation. To wrap up the show, Christian and Alexis celebrate Erling Haaland's arrival on the World Cup stage and discuss whether the Norwegian superstar can carry his country on a deep run while challenging for the Golden Boot. The guys also preview another exciting slate of matches, including Colombia vs. Congo, England vs. Ghana, Panama vs. Croatia and Canada vs. Switzerland, as the drama of the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to build. Timestamps: (2:00) — Messi stands alone as World Cup top goalscorer (10:00) - Can Mbappe catch him at this tournament? (20:00) - Bruce Arena talks USMNT and Coaching Career (37:00) - Haaland makes his mark: can he win Golden Boot? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:🎧 Apple Podcasts🎧 Spotify🖥️ YouTube📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv
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What this episode covers
Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros deliver six spicy World Cup takes, led by the bold claim that Mauricio Pochettino has changed soccer in America forever. The guys then preview Portugal's crucial clash with Uzbekistan and debate whether Cristiano Ronaldo or Gonçalo Ramos will be the key to keeping their tournament hopes alive. They also discuss England's explosive attack after their win over Croatia and ask whether the Three Lions possess the most dangerous frontline at the World Cup before previewing Argentina vs. Austria, France vs. Iraq and Norway vs. Senegal.
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Messi's Historic Record, Mbappé's Hunt, Bruce Arena talks USMNT & Haaland's Rise
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