The Athletic FC: Daily Cup

Spain wins the 2026 World Cup

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:17:38 GMT

Welcome to the final episode of the Daily Cup! Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down the epic conclusion to the 2026 World Cup, where Spain emerged victorious. Felipe Cardenas joins the desk to analyze the dramatic 120-minute final and Lionel Messi's future. Then, Hannah Vanbiber shares the ultimate cheat sheet on how to follow your favorite stars like Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe as they return to their club teams. Finally, Tim Spiers reviews the tournament's biggest successes, failures, and the impact of its Americanization.

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Messi's Back-to-Back vs Yamal's Spain

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 12:43:01 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas deliver the ultimate preview for the historic 2026 World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain. The Athletic’s James Horncastle joins the show to analyze how manager Lionel Scaloni’s emotional connection has fueled Argentina’s never-say-die attitude and positioned Lionel Messi just one win away from back-to-back global titles. Then, Dermot Corrigan dives into Spain's disciplined, starless collective under Luis de la Fuente and discusses what is driving Lamine Yamal's quiet ambivalence in the tournament. Plus, Hannah Vanbiber counts down her definitive top five off-the-pitch stories—including the prophetic 2007 Messi-Yamal baby photo and international fans obsessed with ranch dressing.

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World Cup Best Moments & Final Preview

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 00:40:20 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas take a look back at the unforgettable highlights and lowlights defining the 2026 World Cup. On the eve of the historic final between Argentina and Spain, The Athletic's global newsroom shares their favorite fan celebrations, shocking underdog runs, and elite superstar skills from the tournament. Plus, Hannah Vanbiber joins forces with the Tifo Football Podcast crew to break down the biggest controversies that rocked the summer.

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Argentina Triumph As World Cup Final is Set

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup! Today, hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas look ahead to the highly anticipated World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. Seb Stafford-Bloor stops by to discuss the massive format changes coming to the 2030 Men's World Cup. Then, Paul Tenorio analyzes what's next for Mauricio Pochettino and the USMNT's road to 2030, while Meg Linehan previews the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil and Emma Hayes' USWNT squad. Finally, Joe and Jon from the Tifo Football Podcast rank the biggest controversies of the 2026 tournament.

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Messi's Final Push As Argentina Face England

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas prepare for the massive 2026 World Cup semi-final clash between England and Argentina. The Athletic's Dermot Corrigan joins to share the fascinating story of a young Lionel Messi’s growth hormone treatment, and how Barcelona secured his signature on a napkin. Next, Oliver Kay unpacks the deep, historic rivalry between the two nations on and off the field, from the Hand of God to David Beckham's redemption. Finally, Tifo Football explains FIFA's strict undergarment apparel rules, and Hannah Vanbiber hosts a blind ranking of the greatest soccer movies of all time.

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Spain vs. France preview and Pulisic's USMNT future

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 17:39:12 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup! Today, hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas deliver a definitive preview of the massive France vs. Spain semi-final showdown. The Athletic's Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero breaks down Spain's impenetrable defense, while Cerys Jones analyzes whether Kylian Mbappe can guide France to a third consecutive World Cup final. Plus, Paul Tenorio gives a critical evaluation of Christian Pulisic. After an injury-hit tournament and heavy external criticism, what does the future hold for Captain America and the USMNT? Finally, Hannah Vanbiber helps eliminated fans find a new bandwagon to cheer for.

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The World Cup Enters the Quarterfinal Stage

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:12:49 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down the latest action from the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals, with Belgium, the side that put the USMNT to the sword, taking on Spain this evening. While Lamine Yamal may be one of the game's biggest stars on the field, it's his three-year-old brother, Kayne, who's become this tournament's biggest breakout social media star: we discover why. Plus, the Athletic’s Henry Bushnell joins the show to provide an exclusive, inside look into the USMNT camp and the impact of Mauricio Pochettino.

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Assessing the USMNT's World Cup campaign

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Today, hosts Hannah Vanbiber and James McNicholas dust themselves off to discuss the future of the USMNT following their heartbreaking elimination by Belgium. The host of The Athletic FC Podcast, Emma Paton, stops by to discuss how this World Cup will impact the upcoming Premier League season, including transfer rumors surrounding Folarin Balogun. Plus, Hannah explores the often hilarious origins of English football chants and how American supporter culture is trying to catch up.

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USMNT elimination reaction and World Cup conspiracies

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Today, hosts Hannah Vanbiber and James McNicholas react to the USMNT's heartbreaking World Cup elimination against Belgium, breaking down the good, the bad, and the downright ugly with Felipe Cardenas. The Tifo Football Podcast stops by to reveal the surprising truth about pitch dimensions. Then, Tim Spiers opens up soccer's X Files to discuss the wildest World Cup conspiracy theories, including rigged brackets and CIA poisonings. Finally, Hannah explores how Big Tech, AI avatars, and Connected Ball Technology have completely infiltrated the tournament.

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Balogun back for USMNT's clash with Belgium

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Hosts Hannah Vanbiber and James McNicholas preview the USMNT's massive round of 16 match against European heavyweights, Belgium. Henry Bushnell gives a scouting report, while Dan Sheldon breaks down the massive story he broke on The Athletic: the shocking suspension of Folarin Balogun's ban. Tifo Football explains the new World Cup format. Then, Tim Spiers joins the show to discuss the epic generational battle between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal as Portugal faces Spain. Plus, Hannah uncovers the psychological reason behind players hiking up their shorts.

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What's It Like to Face Messi on The Field?

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup! Today, hosts Hannah Vanbiber and James McNicholas discuss the USMNT's journey to the last-16. James speaks with Tom Bogert about how the US will cope against Belgium without star striker Folarin Balogun following his red card. Tifo Football explains red card rules. Jay Harris talks with Stu James about the intimidating privilege of playing against Lionel Messi. Plus, Hannah Vanbiber uncovers why World Cup players are cutting holes in their socks.

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USMNT Advance - But At What Cost?

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup! Today, hosts Hannah Vanbiber and James McNicholas celebrate the USMNT's thrilling victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance to the World Cup last-16, breaking it all down with Henry Bushnell. The Tifo Football Podcast stops by to analyze the incredible rise of Spanish star Lamine Yamal. Jay Harris and Tim Spiers take a deep dive into the defining Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo rivalry as their final World Cup potentially draws to a close. Plus, the crew debates if there is a better way to settle matches than penalty shootouts.

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England's World Cup hopes and USMNT Bosnia preview

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup! Today, hosts Tamerra Griffin and Hannah Vanbiber preview the USMNT's do-or-die knockout match against Bosnia and Herzegovina with The Athletic's Simon Hughes. We take a closer look at Bosnia's dangerous players, including rising star Esmir Bajraktarevic. The Tifo Football Podcast stops by to discuss the controversy surrounding hydration breaks. Plus, Jay Harris and Jack Pitt-Brooke analyze England's World Cup run and their clash with DR Congo. Finally, Hannah reveals the secret behind Mauricio Pochettino's custom Hugo Boss game-day fit.

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USMNT Knockout Preview and Mexico's Dark Horse Chances

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup as we dive deeper into the win-or-go-home World Cup knockout stages! Today, hosts Tamerra Griffin and Hannah Vanbiber are joined by Henry Bushnell for a USMNT vibe check ahead of their massive knockout match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Tifo Football Podcast stops by to analyze if Kylian Mbappe is getting too big for the game. Jay Harris and Felipe Cardenas discuss Mexico's perfect group stage and their Round of 32 match against Ecuador. Plus, Hannah uncovers the secrets behind the music played at World Cup venues.

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Pochettino's Contract Extension Offer and The Start of The Knockouts

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Daily Cup as we officially enter the knockout stage of the World Cup! Today, hosts Tamerra Griffin and Hannah Vanbiber are joined by Adam Crafton to break down his exclusive report on the USMNT's contract extension offer to head coach Mauricio Pochettino. The Tifo Football Podcast stops by to explain yellow card rules, and Jay Harris breaks down the knockout bracket. Finally, we explore the USMNT's puppy therapy sessions and how they are lowering stress in camp. Will the USMNT secure Poch for the future?

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USMNT vs Turkey Recap & Mbappe-Haaland Clash

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:00:32 GMT

On today's show, we look back at the United States' final group stage match against Turkey and evaluate their readiness for the Round of 32. Manchester City insider Sam Lee joins us to preview the tournament's first true superstar heavyweight clash as Kylian Mbappe and France square off against Erling Haaland and Norway in a battle for Group I supremacy. Plus, The Athletic's Jay Harris is back in the studio to break down the latest bracketology, advancement percentages, and qualification permutations for Groups G, H, and I using The Athletic's World Cup Tracker.

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Pochettino's USMNT Dilemma & Norway's Fan Row

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Welcome to The Athletic FC: Daily Cup. Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down a decisive slate of six World Cup group stage matches. Senior soccer writer Paul Tenorio joins the show to unpack Mauricio Pochettino’s unexpected team selection puzzle ahead of the USMNT's final Group D match against Turkey. Plus, soccer writer Jay Harris enters the studio to analyze the tight qualification scenarios for Groups D, E, and F using The Athletic’s World Cup Tracker. We also examine Norway's viral "Viking Row" celebration and preview the highly anticipated Group I clash between superstar forwards Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe.

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Folarin Balogun Transfer Updates, World Cup Tracker and the Doku Debate

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down a massive six-match World Cup slate as group stages reach their climax. Soccer insider David Ornstein joins the show to discuss the escalating transfer market buzz surrounding USMNT star Folarin Balogun and Tottenham's Lucas Bergvall. Plus, the team highlights The Athletic's interactive World Cup Tracker with Jay Harris to map out the complicated qualification pathways for Group A, B, and C. Can the USMNT line up a favorable Round of 32 matchup? Senior Editor Hannah Vanbiber also dives into the debate surrounding Jeremy Doku’s departure for the birth of his child.

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Is Cristiano Ronaldo Hurting Portugal? Plus USMNT Goalkeeper Matt Freese's Moment

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Join Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas on The Athletic FC: Daily Cup as they break down the latest 2026 World Cup action. Senior soccer writer Henry Bushnell joins the show to discuss Harvard-educated USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese, his unique path to becoming Mauricio Pochettino's No. 1, and his meticulous pre-game routine. Plus, Nick Miller dives into whether Cristiano Ronaldo has become a tactical and social media problem for Portugal after a frustrating opening draw against DR Congo. We also share a wholesome story about an England national team pool table purchased on Facebook Marketplace from a grandmother in Kansas.

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Pochettino Exclusive Interview and Messi's Hat-Trick

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Join Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas on The Athletic FC: Daily Cup as they break down the 2026 World Cup action. Soccer insider Paul Tenorio joins the show to share an exclusive, one-on-one interview with USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino following the USA's raucous 2-0 victory over Australia. Plus, James Horncastle does a deep dive into how Lionel Messi prepared for his spectacular tournament-opening hat-trick for Argentina, and senior sports media columnist Andrew Marchand critiques the broadcaster dynamic between FOX pundits Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alexi Lalas. Can Pochettino lead the USMNT to a historic World Cup run?

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Tension Builds Between USMNT and Australia While Scotland Fans Take Over Boston

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas prepare for a massive Group D showdown as the USMNT looks for back-to-back World Cup wins against Australia. The Athletic’s Tom Bogert joins the show to break down how a viral "layup" comment from American pundit Mike Grella ignited a fierce international rivalry and gave the Socceroos ultimate motivation. Plus, Jordan Campbell reports live from the "Boston Beer Party," where thousands of roaring Scotland fans have taken over the city and literally drank a local taproom dry. Finally, the hosts of the Sports Gossip podcast deliver a tournament vibe check, and we preview the breakout hero of the opening round, Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. Will the USMNT back up the trash talk on the pitch?

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Gio Reyna's journey back to USMNT and Uruguay's enigmatic coach, Marcelo Bielsa

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Hosts Tamerra Griffin and James McNicholas break down the second round of World Cup group stage action. We dive into the curious case of USMNT star Gio Reyna and the controversial 2022 Qatar fallout that nearly derailed his international career. Plus, insider Phil Hay joins to discuss Uruguay's enigmatic head coach, Marcelo Bielsa, and his latest viral "I'm not a model" photo shoot moment. Carl Anka also highlights how New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani secured affordable ticket deals for local soccer fans, and the TIFO team explores the fascinating global history of "The Wave." Can the USA overcome the odds in their upcoming clash against a fired-up Australia squad in Seattle?

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Gareth Bale on Ronaldo and US Soccer, plus World Cup Transfers

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 08:48:05 GMT

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.

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Pochettino’s USMNT Blueprint & Lionel Messi's Last Dance?

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

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?

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Balogun the USMNT Hero & World Cup Empty Seats

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

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.

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USMNT Dominant In Opening Win, Brazil vs Morocco Preview & Scotland's World Cup Return

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 10:48:06 GMT

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.

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Breaking Down the US Men's National Team Roster and Recapping The Tournament's Opening Matches

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

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.

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2026 World Cup: Hidden FIFA Costs & USMNT Preview

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:50:00 GMT

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.

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Welcome to The Athletic FC: Daily Cup!

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

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....

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