The Athletic FC: Daily Cup

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down the latest 2026 World Cup action with an exclusive interview featuring soccer legend Gareth Bale. The five-time Champions League winner discusses the growth of MLS in the US and shares unique insights into former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of his opening match at age 41. Will the Portugal legend dominate his final tournament? Plus, The Athletic’s insider David Ornstein joins Carl Anka to break down massive transfer market updates, including Manchester United’s pursuit of Crysencio Summerville and Manchester City’s interest in Elliot Anderson. Finally, we look at the incredible tradition of Japan's fans cleaning up stadiums in Texas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James Nicholas break down the opening week of the 2026 World Cup Group Stage! Senior Soccer Writer Tom Bogert joins to demystify USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino following a massive 4-1 opening win over Paraguay. We dive into the billionaire funding behind his hiring, his squad rebuild, and his unique team-building quirks. Plus, MLS insider Paul Tenorio discusses whether this tournament is Lionel Messi's international "last dance" with Argentina and analyzes Gio Reyna’s emotional, game-sealing goal. Finally, Senior Editor Hannah Vanbiber exposes FIFA’s bizarre venue cover-ups. Is Argentina poised to repeat, and can Pochettino lead the USMNT to glory? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tamerra Griffin and Carl Anka recap the USMNT’s dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay by diving into the circuitous journey of two-goal hero Folarin Balogun with senior soccer writer Paul Tenorio. Plus, we investigate the tournament's growing mystery: why are there visible swathes of empty seats at "sold-out" matches in Guadalajara and Santa Clara? Insider Elias Burke joins to explain the stadium attendance discrepancies, corporate ticket realities, and extreme heat advisories. Finally, Hannah Vanbiber drops by to look at the science behind the tournament's hot-pink boot trend and the team ranking debates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The group stage is heating up! Hosts Tamerra Griffin and Carl Anka break down the fallout from the USMNT’s massive opening tournament match on today's Daily Cup. We dive deep into the ultimate debate: what did we learn from the United States' performance, and does the squad need a brand new nickname? Plus, we look ahead to the highly anticipated showdown between Brazil and Morocco. The Athletic’s Jack Lang joins us to unpack the major controversy surrounding Neymar's roster selection and his current injury status. We also preview Scotland's historic return to this stage with a special message from Succession star Brian Cox. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The World Cup has officially kicked off! Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down all the early action on today's Daily Cup. The USMNT begins its highly anticipated campaign tonight against Paraguay. The Athletic's senior soccer writer Paul Tenorio joins the studio to deliver an essential scouting report on Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and veteran captain Tim Ream. Can this "golden generation" live up to the massive home expectations? Plus, Hannah Vanbiber drops by to look at the lighter side of the tournament, tracking international fans obsessing over American drive-thrus and Spain setting up camp in Chattanooga. We also unpack the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The historic 2026 World Cup kicks off today! Hosts Tamerra Griffin, James McNicholas and Hannah Vanbiber speak to Adam Crafton and Pablo Torre, who have exposed the hidden taxpayer costs funding FIFA’s expanded tournament. Plus, Tom Bogert helps preview the USMNT’s home-field advantage, and Hannah ranks the best and worst team kits, from Curacao's fan-favorite look to Nike's "shoulder-gate" drama. Plus the Top 3 stories as the tournament nears. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curious about the World Cup? Ready to absorb the biggest sporting event on the planet?Well The Athletic FC: Daily Cup is here to be your ultimate companion.... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.