Sounding Off on Soccer with John Krysinsky

"They found the right channels, but against Belgium, they had an answer for everything. The U.S. had to work a little bit harder, and that's when elite players step up."The tournament run is over. Host John Krysinsky welcomes The Sporting News writer and pod regular Mike DeCourcy to process the heavy reaction surrounding the U.S. Men's National Team’s 4-1 elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Key Topics Covered:The Ponderous Reality: Why did the USMNT look surprisingly timid and hesitant on and off the ball compared to earlier tournament performances?Moment of Magic vs. Instant Collapse: Malik Tillman's brilliant free-kick equalizer and how Belgium instantly retook the lead just 116 seconds later.Defensive and Aerial Breakdowns: An in-depth look at individual performances, communication issues across the backline, and how Belgium’s Charles De Ketelaere and Romelu Lukaku thoroughly exposed the U.S. defense.The Keeping Blunder: Sifting through Matt Freese’s costly second-half clearance mistake that handed Hans Vanaken an empty net.The Program Ceiling: Did this squad simply hit their natural competitive limit, or did tactical execution fail them when it mattered most?Follow Pittsburgh Soccer Now:Website: pittsburghsoccernow.comTwitter/X: @PghSoccerNow

The U.S. Men’s National Team has advanced to the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time since 2002 after a wild, gritty 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara. Host John Krysinsky is joined by senior writer for The Sporting News, Mike DeCourcy, to break down a chaotic night in the Bay Area and look ahead to a massive knockout clash with Belgium.John and Mike tackle the fallout from Folarin Balogun's highly controversial 64th-minute red card and how Pochettino's "no-panic" culture kept the 10-man squad structurally flawless. Plus, they dive into the tactical adjustments required for Monday's match without their primary target man: Will it be Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright leading the line, and how much heavy lifting will fall on the soaring shoulders of Malik Tillman? Links & Resources:• Read Mike's post-match column at The Sporting News• Follow Mike on X: @tsnmike• Head to Pittsburgh Soccer Now for full match breakdowns, tactical analysis, and fan galleries!Photo courtesy US Soccer 

The Sporting News legend Mike DeCourcy joins John Krysinsky to recap the group stage fallout and map out the road ahead for Wednesday’s massive USMNT vs. Bosnia knockout clash. Pulling back the curtain on the press room, Mike breaks down how Pochettino is navigating the American media and why tournament depth matters.Later in the show, John shifts gears to the local sports landscape. Fifty years after the Pittsburgh Triangles won a championship, why is Pittsburgh still sitting on its hands regarding elite women's professional sports? John delivers a passionate closing argument on the explosive growth of the Pittsburgh Riveters SC and Steel City FC, explaining how corporate partnership potential, a deep local talent pipeline, and a looming stadium expansion are paving a direct path toward the USL Super League or NWSL. No more waiting—it's time to get it done.Timestamps:0:00 - USMNT Group Stage Fallout & Roster Rotation Risks22:06 - Attacking Flair: Can Dest, McKennie, and Pulisic Unlock Bosnia?23:11 - Singing Country Roads & Staying Relevant with Mike DeCourcy24:43 - The Pittsburgh Triangles & The Women's Pro Sports Void28:39 - Post-Interview: John on the Pochettino vs. Media Dynamic31:43 - Solo Editorial: It's Time for a Pro Women's Soccer Team in Pittsburgh!

Riverhounds Media Relations Director Matt Grubba, born in Sydney, Australia but raised in the U.S., joins John Krysinsky to preview the highly anticipated USMNT vs. Australia World Cup match and shares an incredible inside look at the Hounds' historic USL Championship win in Tulsa.Full Show Notes:Joining the show today is longtime Pittsburgh soccer journalist and current Riverhounds Director of Media Relations, Matt Grubba!John and Matt have shared press boxes since the dawn of the F.N.B. Stadium era. In this episode, they look back at how much the local soccer landscape has exploded before Matt takes us right onto the pitch in Tulsa, describing what it was like on the inside when the Riverhounds hoisted the USL Championship trophy.Then, they dive deep into Friday's massive USMNT vs. Australia World Cup group stage matchup. As a dual U.S.-Australian citizen, Matt breaks down the Socceroos' shocking 2-0 counter-attacking upset over Turkey, the rise of teenage sensation Nestory Irankunda, and how Australia plans to set a tactical trap for Pochettino's high-flying Americans in Seattle.

A truly historic week across the global and local sporting landscape brings a powerhouse edition of Sounding Off on Soccer!We kick things off right from the press box in Los Angeles as host John Krysinsky welcomes back legendary sports journalist Mike DeCourcy of The Sporting News. Fresh off covering the U.S. Men’s National Team’s commanding performance, Mike takes us inside the electric atmosphere of the World Cup on home soil. We dive deep into a vintage tactical display the likes of which we’ve never quite seen from the U.S. Men on this stage before. Mike also delivers the latest medical updates on Christian Pulisic’s injury status, breaks down the squad's intensifying preparations for Friday’s massive clash with Australia in Seattle, and even switches gears to give us his perspective as a renowned college basketball writer on the New York Knicks capturing their first NBA title since 1973 behind the chemistry of the "Nova Knicks" and Jalen Brunson's masterpiece.Then, John shifts the focus back to local soil with a full sweep of the Western Pennsylvania soccer landscape. We break down the absolute tear our area pre-professional teams are on—including the red-hot Pittsburgh Riveters SC nearing a division crown and Steel City FC keeping the defensive standard high.From there, we unpack the Riverhounds' gritty 1-0 win over Indy Eleven in front of another packed house at F.N.B. Stadium. John pulls from his years of experience as a competitor, coach, and journalist to tackle the social media chatter surrounding the Steel Army heavily booing returning championship goalkeeper Eric Dick, explaining why it was a masterclass in Soccer Gamesmanship 101.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just weeks away, and Mauricio Pochettino has officially set the roster for the USMNT.The 26-man squad features massive tactical gambles, headline-grabbing snubs, and a heavy reliance on a select few stars to carry the load on home soil.On this episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, Pittsburgh Soccer Now Managing Editor John Krysinsky sits down with veteran sports journalist and Pittsburgh's own Mike DeCourcy of The Sporting News.Instead of a standard Q&A, John puts Mike on the hot seat at the start in a "Buy or Sell" segment, then togehter they look at the final squad, and dive deep into Mike's latest Sporting News column on why this tournament is Gio Reyna's ultimate legacy moment, and much more!

Summer soccer in Western Pennsylvania is officially in full swing, and this week the spotlight shines directly on the women’s pre-professional landscape.Ahead of their anticipated USL W League season opener this Friday night, Pittsburgh Soccer Now sat down with two foundational pillars of the Steel City FC Women squad: defensive anchor Emily Graeca and veteran goalkeeper Payton O'Malley.The duo represents a massive chunk of the veteran leadership driving Head Coach Tom Ovenden's roster this summer. Graeca, a standout defender at James Madison University and a DuBois area native, alongside O'Malley, the Chartiers Valley product now commanding the box at Bowling Green, bring elite NCAA Division I pedigree back to the Steel City locker room.In a wide-ranging interview segment, the pair broke down everything from the club's unique family culture to high-stakes regional travel, upcoming tournament cameos, and a summer schedule loaded with local fireworks.

The partnership between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Borussia Dortmund moved from the front office to the pitch this week.On Wednesday, the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex hosted youth athletes for the BVB International Academy North America tryouts—a landmark moment for the collaboration announced last year.On the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's caught up with BVB’s Dru Wright (Chief Football Officer - BVB International Academy North America) and and the Steelers’ Reagan Berube (Sr Director Content and International Development) to discuss the tangible impact of this global bridge.From coaching education and School of Excellence scouting to hosting flag football in Germany, learn how these two legendary organizations are leveraging their shared Steel City DNA to create a unique holistic environment for local players.Topics and Highlights of the interview included: The Steel City Synergy: How the shared industrial heritage and Black & Gold identity of Pittsburgh and Dortmund created a natural foundation for this partnership.A Very Real Connection: Why hosting youth tryouts at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex is a major milestone in making the partnership tangible for local families.The BVB Way: Dru Wright explains the Heavy Metal football philosophy—high tempo, high intensity, and a focus on doing things the right way.Global Brand Expansion: Reagan Berube discusses the Steelers’ international efforts in Germany, including flag football camps and official watch parties at Signal Iduna Park.Player Pathways: Details on the School of Excellence program and the direct scouting line for Pittsburgh players (both male and female) to train in Germany.Holistic Development: Moving beyond pay-to-play to focus on building professional skill sets that serve athletes both on and off the pitch.Coaching Education: The commitment to developing local Western PA coaches through monthly calls and direct mentorship from BVB’s German staff.Future Vision: A look at the step-by-step growth of the collaboration and the potential for more international soccer events returning to Pittsburgh.About the guests: Dru Wright, Chief Football Officer - BVB International Academy North America Dru is the gatekeeper of the "BVB Way." Dortmund is world-famous for its youth development (think Pulisic, Bellingham, Haaland). Wright’s goal is to ensure the Pittsburgh kids aren’t just wearing the badge but are actually learning the Dortmund methodology.Reagan Berube, Sr Director Content and International Development, Pittsburgh SteelersReagan is a key architect of the Steelers' international expansion. Since the Steelers received NFL marketing rights for Germany in 2024, they’ve been aggressive in building a "home away from home" in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).

In the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, host John Krysinsky is joined by Riverhounds and Riveters President Jeff Garner for an in-depth discussion on the rapidly evolving landscape of professional soccer in Pittsburgh.From landmark corporate partnerships to the ambitious vision for F.N.B. Stadium, Garner pulls back the curtain on the business decisions driving the club's growth both on and off the pitch.In This Episode, We Discuss:The Corporate Power Play: Insights into the recent naming rights deal with FNB and the new partnership with Edgar Snyder & Associates. Stadium Expansion & Timetable: How does the new corporate backing accelerate the plan for a 15,000-seat stadium, and what is the realistic timeline for seeing shovels in the ground?The World Cup 2026 Connection: With the World Cup looming, discuss the Riverhounds and Riveters efforts to capitalize on the momentum as they host events that have already been announced (USMNT Watch Parties at FNB Stadium) plus many other ways that they're getting involved with World Cup activities in and around the Greater Pittsburgh region.Additionally, Garner addresses potential expansion to grass surfaces as potential way to host national teams and FIFA sanctioned competitions and events.Riveters Year Two: Reflecting on the inaugural impact of the Pittsburgh Riveters and what fans can expect as the organization enters its second season of W League play.The Major Sports Narrative: Garner addresses the social media chatter head on —as he makes his case for the franchise's evolving place as an essential part of the City of ChampionsFan Experience: A look at what’s working, from theme nights to matchday atmosphere, and the challenges the front office is working to overcome.And much more!  

Pittsburgh native Nicky Kolarac, who has played for three different teams in the US Open Cup: Michigan Bucks, Pittsburgh Riverhounds and Steel City FC, joined John Krysinsky on Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast to discuss the historic match between the Riverhounds and Steel City.  The match between the Riverhounds and Steel City (Tuesday, March 17 -- 7 p.m. at Highmark Stadium) will be the first time two teams from the Pittsburgh area will face off against each other in the proper US Open Cup tournament since 1957 -- a span of nearly seven decades and 69 years!John and Nicky discussed an array of topics, including: How the Pittsburgh soccer landscape has changed since he was a young player Playing in US Open Cup with three different clubs (Michigan Bucks -- 2014 PDL Champions, Riverhounds in 2015 and Steel City FC in 2024)Experience of being with Riverhounds in 2015 during its Open Cup run, when current Head Coach Rob Vincent scored in three straight matches during the Cup competition Being brought to Steel City FC (initially Pittsburgh Hotspurs) to help provide leadership and veteran presence, eventually helping play a key role in building successful, winning culture, which has included three straight Division championships (2023 and 2024 in NPSL, 2025 in USL League Two) Significance of the first match between two Pittsburgh clubs in the Open Cup since 1957!And much more!  

On the newest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky is joined by Steel City FC's Nick Graeca and Grant McIntosh to discuss their upcoming Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match vs the RiverhoundsAmong the topics discussed included: Juggling post-collegiate life while still training and competing with Steel City FCHow Steel City's roster evolved through Open Cup qualifying, building a strong player pool and rounding into form as the Open Cup and USL League Two season approaches Thoughts on building on a successful first season in USL League Two Importance of match between two Pittsburgh-area teams in the US Open Cup (First Match between two Pittsburgh clubs in USOC proper in 69 years) What it will be like to have Steel City FC supporters and soccer family supporting them at Highmark Stadium Importance of Open Cup friendlies against Robert Morris and Duquesne Thoughts on facing the Riverhounds   

Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky and Mark Goodman are back and ready on a new Episode of Sounding Off on Soccer to discuss the new season as the Riverhounds get set to defend its USL Championship title. However, will the season start on time?  The USLPA and USL Headquarters continue to negoiate in good faith, but with less than 48 hours before kickoff, there is still no new Collective Bargaining Agreement between the players and the league.  John and Mark share their thoughts on the 11th Hour negoiations, then roll up their sleeves to discuss some of the Five Burning Questions for the Riverhounds as they begin their title defense under a new, permanent Head Coach, Rob Vincent, then make their Annual predictions.  

On Friday, Steel City FC and the Riverhounds announced that its historic US Open Cup match has been moved to Highmark Stadium -- on March 17, at 7 p.m.    This seemed like a great opportunity to bring back and check in with Tom Ovenden and Dan Brower, Steel City FC's owner/president and the men's first team Head Coach to discuss the match and the club's efforts to partner with the Riverhounds in hosting the Open Cup match.    

Robbie Mertz is back for another season with his hometown club, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.This time he comes back to the club, with a new contract, as a champion, postseason hero and even more determined to contribute in contributing to the Riverhounds' standard of success that has been part of his tenures with the team.As the Hounds kick off the preseason, Mertz joins John Krysinsky on the Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast for a revealing and compelling in-depth interview.  Among the topics John and Robbie discuss included:reflections on last season's remarkable postseason run, the team's resilience in overcoming adversity, dealing with what he described as a 'shocking' coaching change, finding a way to score the biggest goal in club history after missing golden chances the previous week, then experiencing hospitalization from exhaustionsigning a new contract and looking forward to a transition to the new season as Rob Vincent has been implemented as the permanent Head Coach and what his role will be with the team the continuing efforts of the USLPA to bring higher standards for players and reach a new collective bargaining agreement with the league -- as negotiations are still at a standstill Mertz, 29, a Pittsburgh native and graduate of nearby Upper St. Clair High School, has been a mainstay for the Hounds since signing with his hometown club as a rookie in 2019. While he did have a short stint with Atlanta United 2 starting in 2021, he rejoined the Hounds via transfer midway through the 2022 season and will be entering his seventh season with the team.

Randy Waldrum has earned his spot in coaching history in the United States of America.In January, the United Soccer Coaches Annual Convention in Philadelphia, the organization honored Waldrum, along with Craig Ewing, Al Miller and Steve Sampson, as part of its 2026 Hall of Fame Class.The U.S. Soccer coaching icon, who helped build successful women's college soccer programs at every stop, including at University of Pittsburgh, sat down with John Krysinsky for a special interview segment for Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast.In this segment, Randy shares more on recieving on of the highest honors for a soccer coach in the United States and devulges into his career and soccer journey while also sharing plenty of thoughts on the current state of women's soccer, college athletics, thoughts on VAR, advice for coaches and how he's been transitioning in his new role as Technical Director for Pitt women's soccer and much more.

Stefan Lundberg has done it all on the Pittsburgh soccer landscape, but he's still not done yet.The former WPIAL and club soccer standout, who went on to a four-year career at Duquesne University, played three seasons with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, where he (no pun intended) was part of the team that bridged the gap playing before scarce crowds at Chartiers Valley to the inagural season at Highmark Stadium. Lundberg has stayed involved with the game with local amateur clubs including Tartan Devils Oak Avalon of Greater Pittsburgh Soccer League and is now one of the veteran leaders for Pittsburgh's new pro indoor soccer club, Bridge City FC.  On the first episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast of 2026, Lundberg took a few moments to catch up with Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky, sharing more about his soccer journey and the new experience playing indoor soccer with a team that has been a very interesting collection of young and veteran players, and much more.

In what was our first-ever in-person, on location edition of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, at Shiloh Plate & Pour (on Mt. Washington), one of the pillars of the Riverhounds 2025 championship squad, the team's captain and midfielder, Danny Griffin joined John Krysinsky to share his thoughts, in his first extended interview session, a few weeks after the team delivered the franchise's first-ever League Title to Pittsburgh.If there was one overriding theme in this conversation with Griffin, it was about how the team banded together and remained a close-knit group regardless of what ever adversity it faced, eventually finding a way to pull off an improbable run through the playoffs without allowing a goal and bringing home Pittsburgh's first-ever professional soccer Championship in the modern era.  "In all my years here, we've always had a close-knit locker room and the guys demanding more from each other," Griffin shared.  "Guys would get on each other. Get after each other about what we needed to do. There's struggles in every season, but in those little moments, there are guys that really stepped up and had each other's back.  That went a long way for everyone." 

Before the Riverhounds kickoff against FC Tulsa in the club's first-ever appearance in the USL Championship Final -- the Sounding Off on Soccer podcast is back with a special pregame edition.Joining PSN's John Krysinsky includes Matthew Baldwin, who has covered the Riverhounds for the past two-and-half seasons with multiple outlets including previously with Pittsburgh Soccer Now and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Keith Barnes.

With the Riverhounds set to play in the USL Championship Final at Tulsa on Saturday, we continue our series of daily Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast episodes.Today, John Krysinsky caught up with Riverhounds' All-USL Championship First Team defender Sean Suber as the third-year proThoughts on experience playing before Pittsburgh fans for three straight playoff matchesHow team has adjusted to each opponent through the playoffs and what have been the biggest challengesHow Sean's soccer journey brought him to Pittsburgh and being teammates with Danny Griffin in each of the past three yearsHow team is feeling and thoughts on the match-up vs Tulsa

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds are USL Championship's Eastern Conference champions and will now be facing FC Tulsa in the League Final.  Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky is joined by fellow PSN contributors Mark 'Soccer Rabbi' Goodman and Matt Popchock who were all on hand at Highmark Stadium for Riverhounds 1-0 ECF triumph over Rhode Island, sharing their experiences from a memorable night in Pittsburgh soccer history and discuss the team's chances in the League Final to be played on Saturday at Noon.  

On the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky discusses the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC one key missing ingredient as they get set to host Rhode Island FC in the USL Championship's Eastern Conference Final on Saturday. Then, John is joined by Steel City FC's Nolan Hutter, who's been helping lead Pittsburgh's USL League Two makeshift squad through 2026 US Open Cup Qualifying: Among the topics John and Nolan discussed include: Steel City's quest to get into the US Open Cup proper tournament by way of qualifying with a makeshift rosterWhat it means to represent Steel City FCThoughts on his alma mater Robert Morris's chances in the Horizon League playoffs 

In what has become a tradition of sorts, PSN's John Krysinsky is joined by a member of the broadcast team for a Riverhounds' upcoming playoff match -- as USL Championship play-by-play announcer Joe Malfa jumps on Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast to discuss Saturday's USL Championship Eastern Conference Quarterfinal Round match at Highmark Stadium.Together, John and Joe breakdown the match-up and discuss the many, many storylines for the first Hounds home playoff match since 2023 and only the second this decade.   

It's been a while, but we're back with a new episode of Sounding Off on Soccer as Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky shares his thoughts on the unfortunate incident at the end of last Saturday's Riverhounds-Hartford match, then also brings on Pitt Men's Soccer broadcast analyst and former LaRoche University boys head soccer coach, David Day, to discuss Pitt men's soccer team.  Among the topics discussed with Day include: Can this Pitt MSOC squad still be a Top 10 caliber What improvements can they be making to not just be ball dominant but more dangerous in attacking third? How have injuries affected this team so far this season and how much do they miss a fully healthy Casper Svendby?Incredibly difficult and challenging schedule is always part of what Pitt HC Jay Vidovich has done to build his programDavid Day previously was the head coach of the La Roche University Men’s Soccer Team where he built, led, and coached a team of talented players at the NCAA Division III level. Day took over the program in 2009 and led the men's soccer team to AMCC Tournament appearances in all ten seasons at the helm. His teams advanced to the AMCC Tournament Semifinals five times and never had a conference losing record. He twice led the Redhawks to program-bests 7-2 conference records.  In his final season, Day became the men's soccer all-time winningest coach at LaRoche. Under his watch, men's soccer had the AMCC Player of the Year, AMCC Newcomer of the Year, 2 All-Region performers, and 34 All-Conference honorees.

Heading into his third year as Head Coach of Robert Morris men’s soccer, Jonathan Potter leads a program coming off one of the most impressive campaigns in program history which included winning the Horizon League championship and a berth in the NCAA Men’s Division I tournament.“That was an exciting. cool thing that provided great moments. Hopefully, we can create some more good memories this fall,” Potter told Pittsburgh Soccer Now early this week as his team is preparing for Thursday’s season opener at Mercyhurst.Talk about a tough act to follow.Listen here to the full interview with Potter, as his team was selected third in the Horizon League preseason poll.  

One of our favorite guests of the Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, Devon Kerr, returns to join John Krysinsky for an enlightening discussion with most of the interview segment talking about the Riverhounds, and on the tail end, some preseason thoughts on College Soccer and Pitt men's soccer team.  Among the topics Devin breaks down include: Riverhounds attacking line still trying to find solutionsAssessing Bob Lilley and his value to the Riverhounds' franchise Can the Hounds find some quality wins?  Pitt has only one thing on their mind at this time every year -- having sights on a National Championship run  And much, much more!   About Devon KerrDevon has quickly become one of the most respected analysts in the sport. He has called MLS matches for the FOX Sports family of networks and continues to be the only lead analyst across four different entities - The USL Championship, the NCAA Men’s College Cup, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and CONCACAF Champions Cup. He played collegiately at Stetson University and competed in the Germany’s Regionalliga with Altona 93. He currently resides in Delray Beach, Florida with his wife and three kids.

More than halfway through his seventh season as a professional soccer player, spending nearly all of his career playing for his hometown club, Upper St Clair native Robbie Mertz is poised to become the Riverhounds all-time appearances leader for a player from the Pittsburgh region with his next appearance.  Mertz, who is also tied for the team lead in goals and is the team's runaway leader in chances created, is currently tied with club Hall of Famer, Gary DePalma (1999-2004) for the all-time appearances.  With 157 matches played for the Hounds, Mertz is tied with DePalma for fifth in club history.  This week, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky caught up with Mertz to discuss this milestone and many other topics on the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, including:His evolution as a player from when he came into USL Championship in 2019 to now  The differences in the league since he began his pro soccer journeyCarrying tradition of local players who have been with the club and the relationships he has with some of the past players who had an influence on him Thoughts on this year's team and the importance of finishing strong His role in generating chances, scoring goals and the team's approachHow has the club evolved and prospered under the direction Head Coach Bob Lilley since 2019Looking at this week's match-up vs Orange County SC and opportunities that lie ahead, including home matches vs Charleston and Louisville Adjusting to becoming a new father in the middle of the season and whirlwind in the days leading up to and after his child's birth And much more.  

It's been a while, but Mike Decourcy, fresh off covering FIFA Club World Cup at Met Life Stadium earlier in the week, joins John Krysinsky on a new episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast.With the FIFA World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico less than one year away, Mike and John discuss the state of USMNT along with more on FIFA's Club World Cup. Then shifting gears, they also tackle another column that Mike wrote about this week, which is one of the greatest debates that extends to all sports fans, Michael Jordan vs LeBron James -- and what is soccer's equivalent. 

In May, Pitt women's soccer program announced an official change in leadership, with Randy Waldrum stepping into a new role as Technical Director, while Ben Waldrum is taking over as the team's Head Coach.For the first time since the transition took place, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky had a chance to visit Pitt's Peterson Sports Complex and sit down with the father and son duo who have led Pitt women's soccer to its most successful era and has reached its greatest heights since they arrived in 2018.In this exclusive, in-depth interview, among the topics discussed -- IN PART II -- included:Final thoughts on last season and the program's make-up in what will also be a transitional season with many new faces along with some key returneesWhat are three qualities that stand out to Randy and Ben about each otherand much more.

In May, Pitt women's soccer program announced an official change in leadership, with Randy Waldrum stepping into a new role as Technical Director, while Ben Waldrum is taking over as the team's Head Coach.For the first time since the transition took place, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky had a chance to visit Pitt's Peterson Sports Complex and sit down with the father and son duo who have led Pitt women's soccer to its most successful era and has reached its greatest heights since they arrived in 2018.In this exclusive, in-depth interview, among the topics discussed — IN PART I — included:Has anything changed since the transition was made official, even as Ben Waldrum had been serving as de facto Head Coach for the past couple of yearsImpact of House Settlement (*), as the settlement establishes new rules governing student-athlete NIL rights, compensation, scholarships, and roster sizesState of women's soccer and College game's role in its growth along with how it can be relevant in its changing landscapeAnd more!!

In the club's first season competing in USL League Two, Steel City FC's men's team earned yet another Division Title with one match remaining, following a 2-1 defeat of Toledo Villa FC, on Sunday at Founders Field.Two key members of the squad, Nathan Prex (Seneca Valley HS/Lebanon Valley) and Josh Lane (Leicester, England/Robert Morris), sat down for an interview on the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast with Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky.Prex, a former standout with Seneca Valley who has excelled at Lebanon Valley College (30 goals in his first three college seasons), has scored one goal and added two assists in nine appearances and logging a total of 534 minutes with Steel City.  Lane, who helped lead Robert Morris to Horizon League Championship in the Fall, has made six appearances with a total of 671 minutes in goal since making his debut with the club. 

On the eve of the Pittsburgh Riveters SC first-ever postseason appearance, the squad's Head Coach, Scott Gibson sat down with Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky for an insightful interview session.  Having been there to help foster the start and as a constant in the incremental growth and ascension of the Riverhounds Development Academy, Gibson was tabbed to take the role as the first-ever coach of W League League squad that would play at Highmark Stadium and generate a new level of excitement for women's soccer. Among topics Gibson discusses includes: Whirlwind first season at helm Ups and downs of first-ever campaign Building a team identity and style of play as Gibson cites: "You build culture, you build identity, and that kind of bleeds into how you play" Roster Building Thoughts on upcoming postseason match vs Minnesota Aurora and hosting Central Conference Semifinals and hoping to reach Sunday night's final and much more...   

Three Pittsburgh natives, Jack Shearer, Josh DiMatteo and Grant Glorioso are bringing professional indoor soccer back to the Steel City.On the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, Shearer, DiMatteo and Glorioso join Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky to share more details about the new Major League Indoor Soccer franchise: Bridge City FC.    After years of playing Division I collegiate and professional indoor soccer in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), with teams like the Baltimore Blast and Harrisburg Heat, the trio is launching a new franchise, Bridge City FC, in the Major League Indoor Soccer (MLIS).

When the Pittsburgh Riveters SC and Steel City FC face off for the second time this month on Friday night at Highmark Stadium (7 p.m. kickoff) in a high-stakes match with USL W League Great Forest Division top spot in the balance, both clubs will be showcasing rosters that will include more than four dozen players from the Greater Pittsburgh region.Focusing on this  match-up, many players on both rosters are from in and around the Greater Pittsburgh area.  Many of the players on both sides know each other very well.  There are many current college teammates, former high school and club teammates, along with each club having players from their respective current Academy teams.  Chances are, many of the players will be looking over at the other side, seeing a good friend or longtime teammate.  However, there are two players from these opposing clubs who know each other best: Robin Reilly and Regan Reilly.On a very special episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, PSN's John Krysinsky catches up with the former Latrobe High School standouts and siblings who have gone separate ways with their Academy and Club careers -- and now compete for each of Pittsburgh area's clubs in the USL W League.Regan is the older of the two, but is the middle sister of the family (oldest sister Morgan, attends Duquesne).  Regan, currently at Bowling Green University, lines up for Steel City FC.  Robin, who is a recent high school graduate who completed her degree early so she could attend West Virginia University this past Spring semester, wears the Riveters' Black & Gold and previously was with Riverhounds Development Academy.With the Riveters, Robin has played five matches (started one) in 142 minutes of action, while Regan has started six matches in seven appearances, logging 453 minutes.In the first match between the clubs, a 3-1 Riveters victory at Founders Field, Regan, and outside back/defender, started for Steel City but came off in the 66th minute, while Robin, an attacking winger, subbed on for the Riveters in the 80th minute, so the sisters avoided doing actual battle.In this in-depth interview, Regan and Robin discuss numerous topics including their respective soccer journeys, what it's been like growing up with each other and during a time when Pittsburgh womens/girls soccer has seen an explosion of talent, how each found their own pathway to play soccer at higher level, what's it been like to train and compete with their respective clubs, they discuss each other's playing style and attributes and much more.  

Steel City FC women's first team is preparing for the final weekend of the regular season in the club's first-go around in the USL W League. Head Coach Tom Ovenden jumps on with Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky to talk about the season to this point, this Friday's high-stakes match-up vs Riveters at Highmark Stadium as both teams are vying for Great Forest Division top spot and more.  

In a special episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky is joined by Pittsburgh Riveters SC's Chloe Kuminkoski, who has started Glioma Research Fund, which has been backed by the team's Play for Change initiative.In this episode, John and Chloe discuss the Riverhounds and Riveters Play for Change Initiative, Chloe's post-graduate work and return to playing soccer in her hometown, how she got involved in establishing the fund in memory of her former classmate, Haley Weiss, and much more. More about Play for Change and Chloe Kuminkoski Glioma Research FundRiveters Play for Change is a ticketing program that allows fans to enjoy their favorite events while supporting charities chosen by Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC and Pittsburgh Riveters SC players.With every ticket purchase, $5 is donated to the charity selected by the player you choose to support.For the first year of the Pittsburgh Riveters and Riveters Play for Change, the team is supporting a single charity organized by one of their own: the Chloe Kuminkoski Glioma Research Fund.The Research Fund raises money to support pediatric brain cancer research and is a deeply personal cause for Chloe. She established the fund in memory of her former classmate, Haley Weiss, who lost her battle to brain cancer in 2021, and Chloe now is taking this opportunity to help others by combining her passions for soccer and medicine.plaTo purchase tickets for upcoming matches and have a portion of the proceeds go toward the Chloe Kuminkoski Glioma Research Fund visit RivetersSC.com 

In a special episode of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast, one of our old friends and longtime PSN contributor, Matt Gajtka joins John Krysinsky to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a remarkable match and come-from-behind victory like none other for Pittsburgh Riverhounds against Keystone Derby rivals Harrisburg City Islanders John and Matt -- who were both there on that memorable night -- discuss what stands out now -- 10 years later from that match and how Pittsburgh soccer's landscape has been shaped since that time.More on the 'Miracle on the Mon'Those who have been following the Riverhounds, Pittsburgh soccer and our site closely over the years -- you probably know and have read all about it -- but for those who are new to our site, the Riverhounds and Pittsburgh soccer in general -- this was Pittsburgh soccer's equivalent of the 'Immaculate Reception'.On May 29, 2015, Pittsburgh Riverhounds battled back to defeat in-state rival, Harrisburg City Islanders, in dramatic fashion, overcoming 3-0, 4-2 and 5-3 (at start of stoppage time) deficits to pull off remarkable and unprecedented 6-5 victory.It was such a stunning finish.We'll probably never see something like it again.And 10 years later, it's safe to say, we haven't seen anything close to a match or a comeback like that.The Riverhounds' incredible comeback victory and the series that season the club had with its in-state rival, Harrisburg City Islanders, became the inspiration for my book, aptly named Miracle on the Mon, which was published and released five years ago this week.This book not only chronicles the events leading up to and from this remarkable soccer match, but also shares the backstory of the struggles and challenges of a lower division soccer club during a time when the professional soccer landscape in the United States was experiencing unprecedented transition and expansion.  The match took place only a few years after the opening of Highmark Stadium, as the Riverhounds were fighting for survival and relevance.

While there's been a lot of attention paid to another pre-professional women's soccer team in the Pittsburgh area -- Riveters SC, who made their debut last week, Steel City FC's women are taking another step forward as a club this year, as they move from UWS into the USL W-League -- where they'll compete in the same division as Riveters SC.Steel City FC will kick off their 2025 campaign this coming week, when they travel north to take on Erie Sports Center on Saturday (6 p.m.).Looking ahead to a new season, co-captains Emily Graeca and Helena Locateli along with Head Coach Tom Ovenden joined John Krysinsky on the latest episode of the Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast. 

It will be an unprecedented moment in professional soccer landscape in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on Wednesday, when the Pittsburgh Riverhounds travel to Chester to face Major League Soccer's Philadelphia Union in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup's Round of 16 (7:30 pm kickoff at Subaru Field).This match-up provides an excellent opportunity for the two managing editors and site founders, John Krysinsky from Pittsburgh Soccer Now and Matt Ralph from Philadelphia Soccer Now to come together on a special edition of Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast to preview the match between two teams going in different directions in their respective leagues.John and Matt take a look at the match-up and discuss a number of topics: Finally -- a Philadelphia vs Pittsburgh pro soccer match-up Taking a look at Pennsylvania's soccer landscape and various professional rivalries that have come and gone Throw out records and where teams stand in their respective leaguesAnother facinating tactical match-up between Bob Lilley vs MLS coach who's relatively new to his clubThoughts on lineup selections for both squadsCan the Hounds navigate their way against Philadelphia's high press

In the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky is joined by Steel City FC's Head Coach Dan Brower to talk about the club's newest challenge as they begin a new season in a new league.Steel City FC kick off a new campaign coming off winning back-to-back NPSL Great Lakes Conference Championships, bringing back many key contributors, but also having said goodbye to some others who have either retired (Nicky Kolarac and Garret Watson) or have moved on to even higher levels (Michael Sullivan with MLS's Toronto FC)

With the the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC gearing up to host a US Open Cup Round of 32 clash vs NYCFC at Highmark Stadium on Wednesday night (7 p.m. -- Paramount Plus), PSN's John Krysinsky is joined by 'Soccer Rabbi' Mark Goodman on the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer.  Among the topics covered and discussed include: John breaks down the Hounds current form -- which has not been good -- as they head into this midweek Open Cup clash at Highmark StadiumPittsburgh's short history of success against MLS clubs in Pittsburgh -- and how this current Hounds group which is struggling -- can draw inspiration from past, positive results vs MLS clubs https://pittsburghsoccernow.com/2025/05/05/struggling-riverhounds-can-find-inspiration-from-short-history-of-solid-home-performances-vs-mls-clubs-in-us-open-cup/Mark, who also hosts the Colorado Rapids podcast, Holding the High Line, jumps on to take a closer look at NYCFC and breaks down their squad.  The pair also discuss the challenges for coaches in lineup selections, the importance of depth and how young players can make an impact in Open Cup matchesImpact that the crowd at Highmark Stadium can have in a match like this

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC captain Danny Griffin joins Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky ahead of the team's return back home to Pittsburgh -- where Highmark Stadium will have a sparkling new turf pitch -- after spending the entire month of April playing four matches in three different competitions on the road.  

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC completed the month of March with consecutive victories at home to bring their overall record in USL Championship to a 2-1-1 mark.With the shortened regular season, the Hounds are nearly at the quarter mark of the league schedule -- and a few members of Pittsburgh Soccer Now's team coverage team, Colton Coreschi and Mark Goodman joined John Krysinsky for a couple of segments of the Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast to share their thoughts on the Hounds after the first four matches.Among the topics tackled by Colton, Mark and John, included:Early season takeawaysBiggest surprisesBiggest disappointmentsWhat to expect as Hounds will be on the road for almost all of April (pending US Open Cup match )Listen to both segments here and anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts.

The last we heard from Michael Monsour, he was departing Pittsburgh and his first soccer venture with Pittsburgh City United FC, to lead a group which purchased and took over operations for Manchester 62, a historic club in Gibraltar, which competes in the Gibraltar National League.  This week, Michael joins John Krysinsky to talk in more depth about his experience and shares more of this thoughts on the ups and downs of overseeing a club and much more -- including his thoughts on if he were to return to Pittsburgh -- about the possibility of a second pro soccer team in our region.  In more than two years, Monsour has the club positioned in a good place.The club, which  followed the lead of Monsour's Pittsburgh City United by mandating protective headgear for its players, subject to approval from the Gibraltar Football Association. As part of the takeover, the club filmed a documentary and continues to promote the impact of protective headgear on head injuries and partner with the Concussion Legacy Foundation.  By January 2023, one of the most iconic football clubs in Gibraltar’s storied football history, became the first top flight European football club to have all 10 outfield players wear protective headgear in a professional match in an effort to promote concussion awareness and safety in the beautiful game.  

Deep in the heart of Texas, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC came up short in its second match of the season, falling 2-0, to San Antonio FC on Saturday night at Toyota Park.https://pittsburghsoccernow.com/2025/03/15/final-riverhounds-sc-vs-san-antonio-fc/Shortly after the match, PSN's John Krysinsky was joined by Colton Coreschi to break down the Hounds' first loss of the season.  You can catch the post match reaction show on Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast and on PSN's YouTube Channel.  

Kenardo Forbes always knew the end of his illustrious playing career -- as the most decorated player in Riverhounds SC history -- would be coming to a close in recent years, but it wasn't until this preseason when it became clear."Once I knew I didn't have the fitness to go full 90 minutes," Forbes told Pittsburgh Soccer Now last week in an exclusive interview, after the Hounds training session at AHN Montour Sports Complex.PSN's John Krysinsky has more from Kenardo on his retirement and transitioning to becoming a part of the club's coaching staff.

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (0-0-1) battled back to earn a 1-1 road draw to open the USL Championship regular season against North Carolina FC (0-0-1) at WakeMed Park in Cary, NC on Saturday night.PSN's John Krysinsky and Colton Coreshi have the immediate post match reaction and share their takeaways.   https://pittsburghsoccernow.com/2025/03/08/final-north-carolina-fc-1-riverhounds-1/

It's time to partake in the Annual Pittsburgh Soccer Now predictions for the new Riverhounds and USL Championship season on the Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast.PSN’s John Krysinsky was joined by Mark Goodman 'Soccer Rabbi' and La Mega Media‘s Amadeo Eichberg, as they took turns making their predictions for the season ahead.These predictions included:Predict following Hounds’ results this year:How Many Points in Regular Season?Where do they finish in Eastern Conference standings?How far can the Hounds advance in Jagermeister Cup and US Open Cup?Who will be the Riverhounds’ leading scorer?What new player are you most interested in seeing this year?Which team comes out of the Eastern Conference this year to play in USL Cup Final?Each panelist shares a HOT TAKE (or two) for the upcoming season!

Pittsburgh Soccer Now's Rachael Kriger, who also contributes to Equalizer Soccer, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and serves as color commentator for Pitt women's soccer match broadcasts, joins John Krysinsky to tackle some questions about the women's game -- both as it relates to the Pittsburgh area, nationally and internationally.Together John and Racheal discuss the following:As Pittsburgh Riveters SC prepare to kick off its inaugural campaign, will the excitement and momentum result in paving the way toward women's pro soccer team in Pittsburgh?  More from Rachael's interview with Amanda Vandervort, USL Super League President, and her feature story on Super League for Equalizer Soccer Thoughts about Riveters and Steel City FC entering the W-LeaguePitt alums and Pittsburgh-area natives making their mark in the prosCan USL Super League find its place on the U.S. Soccer landscapeThoughts on potential development of US Women's Open CupCollege women's soccer programs face challenges in building rosters with NCAA rules changesUSWNT: SheBelieves Cup and more

Pittsburgh Soccer Now's John Krysinsky and Colton Coreschi cover an array of topics including: USL announces plans for Division One league to launch in 2027.  Will the Riverhounds SC be one of the teams considered?  Pittsburgh contrasting W-League clubs -- what each bring to the table as there's an added level of excitement coming with Riveters SC inaugural campaign and Steel City FC's first year in new leagueImprovements to the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup schedule and participants in 2025 along with what to be watching for in the early rounds along with Riverhounds' prospects as they'll enter the tournament in the Third Round.  Added thoughts on Riverhounds roster and preseason and much more!