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Beyond The Touchline
by Nick Cowell
Beyond the Touchline is where elite coaching insight meets world-class commentary. Hosted by Coach Nick Cowell, one of the winningest coaches in NCAA history, and veteran international broadcaster Adrian Healey, the podcast explores the global game through two rare and complementary lenses: the bench and the booth. The show launches with a 12-episode countdown to the 2026 World Cup, unpacking the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, profiling contenders and dark horses, and examining the structural, tactical, and cultural forces shaping the modern game. Each episode blends narrative, sharp analysis, and informed debate in under 60 minutes. Expect big questions: Does expansion create chaos or genius? Can Argentina repeat? Does hosting actually matter? Is depth now more important than brilliance? After 2026, the show expands beyond the tournament into leadership, player development, media, and the evolving future of football. Smart,
Episodes
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E010 - WC2026 - West Asia - Bassil Mikdadi
The conversation delves into the rich football culture of West Asia, Basil's journey into football journalism, the intersection of politics, culture, and identity in football, defining West Asia in football terms, the impact of Morocco's success on the region, Jordan's compelling World Cup story,...
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BONUS: USMNT Announcement
Pochettino's first World Cup roster has been announced, revealing surprises and concerns. The team's spine remains intact, but there are questions about defensive midfield and goalkeeper positions. The roster suggests a shift from experimentation to player development and performance. Takeaways...
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E009 - WC2026 - Germany, Austria, Switzerland - Derek Rae
The conversation begins with a nostalgic look back at World Cup memories and the pivotal role of German football in the personal journey of the speakers. It then transitions into a detailed analysis of the German national team's prospects and mentality heading into the 2026 World Cup. The...
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E008 - WC2026 - Asia Gulf States - David Platt
The conversation covers David Platt's diverse career in football, including his coaching roles at Liverpool Academy, work with the Great Britain Olympic teams, scouting role at Manchester United, insights from working with Sir Alex Ferguson, experience with the British Olympic team and elite...
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E007 - WC2026 - Africa - Michael Lahoud
The conversation delves into the unique culture of African football, its impact on the World Cup, and its historical evolution. It explores the influence of African football on the global stage and its rise in the World Cup, highlighting key moments and the changing landscape of African football…
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E006 - WC2026 - Why This Will Be the Hardest World Cup Ever - Paul Balsom
The conversation covers the science behind football, the role of sports scientists, the challenges of international football, and the preparation for tournaments. It delves into the science of the game, Leicester City's title season, the association with the Swedish national team, and the...
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E005 - WC2026 - S. America - Ale Moreno
The conversation delves into the challenges and experiences of South American teams in World Cup qualifiers, highlighting the competitive nature of South American football. It also explores the prospects of Argentina and Brazil in the upcoming World Cup, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of...
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E004 - WC2026 - Homecooking - Herculez Gomez
The conversation covers Herc's journey to professional soccer, the impact of home advantage in soccer, and the expectations for the host nations of the upcoming World Cup. The conversation covers the impact of home advantage, Mexico's fan base and World Cup expectations, Canada's rise in soccer…
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E003 - WC2026 - Aus & NZ - Tom Sermanni
The conversation with Tom Sermanni covers his experiences as a player and coach, insights into life inside a World Cup camp, and the challenges of coaching a national team. He also discusses the success of the Matildas at the World Cup and the traits of superstar players. The conversation with…
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E002 - WC2026 - England, USA - Ian Darke
The conversation delves into the speakers' shared love for local clubs, early commentary experiences, the significance of the World Cup, challenges of real-time commentary, pressure and judgment as a commentator, entertainment and engagement, capturing iconic moments, pre-game preparation, the...
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E001 - Host Introductions - Cowell/Healey
The inaugural episode of Beyond the Touchline introduces the hosts, Adrian and Nick, as they discuss their unique perspectives on football and the World Cup. They delve into coaching perspectives, commentating at the World Cup, player identification, fan misconceptions, emerging players, and…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Beyond the Touchline is where elite coaching insight meets world-class commentary.
Hosted by Coach Nick Cowell, one of the winningest coaches in NCAA history, and veteran international broadcaster Adrian Healey, the podcast explores the global game through two rare and complementary lenses: the bench and the booth.
The show launches with a 12-episode countdown to the 2026 World Cup, unpacking the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, profiling contenders and dark horses, and examining the structural, tactical, and cultural forces shaping the modern game. Each episode blends narrative, sharp analysis, and informed debate in under 60 minutes.
Expect big questions:
Does expansion create chaos or genius?
Can Argentina repeat?
Does hosting actually matter?
Is depth now more important than brilliance?
After 2026, the show expands beyond the tournament into leadership, player development, media, and the evolving future of football.
Smart,
HOSTED BY
Nick Cowell
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