The Beautiful Game, Biggest Stage, A full-length World Cup 2026 preview episode

48 teams. 3 countries. One trophy. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially here, and this is your ultimate preview.We break down every group from A to L — who's flying, who's flopping, who you should already be booking your sweepstake slots for. We dig into Africa's historic 10-team representation, and the Afrobeats soundtrack taking over the world before a ball is kicked: Burna Boy and Shakira leading the charge, Rema linking with BLACKPINK's Lisa and Anitta, Davido going global with Major Lazer and Nelly Furtado, and Ayra Starr holding her own with Latto — Nigerian Afrobeats fully owns the World Cup 2026 anthem album.Then it's time to settle the real debates: which giants are quietly falling apart, which underdogs should scare every team they face, and which squads traveled all the way to North America just to lose three group games and go home. Spain and France rule the odds. Argentina arrive as defending champions. But football doesn't always follow the script and this edition is the biggest in history.This episode is built for football fans who want substance, context, and entertainment. Whether you're preparing your tournament bracket, making bets, or just want to sound smart at the watch party, you're in the right place.  Enjoy!THE GRITS AND BEYOND PODCAST