We're on to the Knockouts

Both the United States and Mexico are 2-0 and have already advanced to the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup. Mexico has clinched Group A and will play its first knockout match in Mexico City. The USMNT, as of this recording, still doesn’t know what it will need to do against Türkiye - or if it will need to do anything at all - to win Group D. A Paraguay win or draw against Türkiye on Friday night would guarantee the Stars and Stripes a first-place finish.But enough about the scenarios.Moments after the United States’ win over Australia, ESPN Mexico City’s Eric Gomez joined the podcast to discuss the first two teams to go 2-0 and punch their tickets to the knockout stage. We talked about Christian Pulisic’s injury, Mauricio Pochettino’s adjustments, and the questions that still remain after two matches. The game against the Socceroos looked much different than the opener against Paraguay, but a win is a win — and the U.S. has started a World Cup with two victories for the first time since 1930.We then turned to El Tri’s victory over South Korea and debated whether Luis Romo’s lone goal was a bigger highlight than Raúl Rangel’s crucial save. Mexico has secured home matches once the knockout stage begins, and Eric explains what that means not only for Mexico City, but for the entire country. We also talked about the incredible scenes in Chula Vista on Thursday night and how Mexican fans flooded the streets of CDMX. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dsmithshow.substack.com