Sounding Off on World Cup 2026: Spain’s Reign, Messi’s Farewell & A Fitting Finale for Mike DeCourcy

Putting a Bow on World Cup 2026 with USBWA Hall of Famer Mike DeCourcyThe 2026 FIFA World Cup is in the books, and on this final post-mortem episode, John Krysinsky brings back Mike DeCourcy (The Sporting News) -- who was there -- to break down Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife (NY/NJ) Stadium. More than just a World Cup recap, this episode celebrates a monumental milestone: Lat Sunday's final was Mike’s last official event as a full-time sports writer and columnist for The Sporting News after 37 years of Hall of Fame journalism. John and Mike discuss:• The growing soccer culture and jersey-wearing youth in the U.S.• Nuance in evaluating the USMNT's World Cup performance• Spain's "Billie Eilish" quiet brilliance on the pitch• Lionel Messi's final World Cup curtain call and staggering legacy• Mike's reflections on his 37-year career, his Point Park University roots, and the emotional text from FIFA that sealed his retirement assignment.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Introduction & Celebrating Mike DeCourcy’s Legacy26:10 - The Generational Shift in U.S. Soccer Culture29:06 - Re-evaluating the USMNT: Historic Firsts vs. Belgium Disappointment30:08 - The Aging Core Ahead of World Cup 203032:03 - Press Box Reflections: Spain’s Victory & The "Billie Eilish" Metaphor34:08 - The FIFA Credential Text: The Moment Retiring Hit Home36:12 - 37 Years of Journalism, Point Park Roots, and Gratitude to ReadersRead Mike's retirement feature and World Cup coverage on The Sporting News.Follow John Krysinsky on Twitter/X: @JohnKrysinskyFollow Pittsburgh Soccer Now: @PghSoccerNowIf you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!