The Cooligans

Latest Episodes:

Messi's Hat Trick, Pulisic Injury Drama, World Cup Bets & Mexico-South Korea Preview Jun 17, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Lionel Messi's historic hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory and discuss what it means for his final World Cup. With Messi now tied for the most World Cup goals ever, the guys debate who had the best opening performance of the tournament: Messi, Kylian Mbappé or Erling Haaland. They also discuss Christian Pulisic's calf injury and whether Mauricio Pochettino should protect his captain against Australia or trust him to lead the United States once again.

Next, The Cooligans welcome Ben Fawkes for another World Cup betting segment. The crew breaks down the over/under for USA-Australia, debates whether Folarin Balogun is the safest goal scorer bet, and examines England's attacking options against Croatia. They also look at Mexico vs South Korea and ask whether tempers could boil over after the chaos of Mexico's opening match, while discussing Ismail Saibari's chances of scoring again for Morocco against Scotland.

To wrap up the show, Christian and Alexis preview another packed day at the World Cup. Can Mexico take control of Group A against South Korea? Will Colombia avoid an upset against Uzbekistan? Can Ghana get a result against Panama? And with England set to face Croatia in one of the marquee games of the group stage, the guys discuss what the Three Lions need to do to prove that football really might be coming home.

Timestamps:
(0:00) — Messi makes history with World Cup hat trick

(9:00) - Who had the best night: Mbappe, Haaland or Messi?

(11:30) - Should Pochettino start or rest Pulisic against Australia?

(24:30) - World Cup betting preview with Ben Fawkes

(39:45) - Mexico vs South Korea preview

(45:45) - Matchday preview

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France Dominate Senegal, Mbappé Scores Twice & Are Les Bleus the Team to Beat at the World Cup? Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react live to France's commanding 3-1 victory over AFCON giants Senegal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kylian Mbappé stole the headlines with a brilliant brace, but the guys break down the six biggest takeaways from an entertaining clash between two of the tournament's most talented teams. What did France prove? And what positives can Senegal take despite the defeat?

Next, Christian and Alexis reveal their Player of the Match selections—and for once, they don't agree. One host believes Mbappé's two-goal performance deserves the honor, while the other argues that Michael Olise's creativity and influence made him the most important player on the pitch. The guys also hand out their stock up and stock down awards, identifying which players and trends should have fans excited—or concerned—moving forward.

To wrap up the show, The Cooligans look ahead to the next matches for both France and Senegal and ask the biggest question coming out of Matchday 1: have Les Bleus officially become the favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup? With Mbappé firing and the squad loaded with talent, Christian and Alexis debate whether anyone can stop France from lifting another trophy.

Timestamps:
(0:00) — France vs Senegal game reaction

(6:30) - Biggest takeaways from France’s big win

(17:00) - Player of the Game selections

(22:00) - Stock up/Stock down

(30:30) - Schedule lookahead for both teams

(39:30) - France now the outright WC favorites?

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Spain Stunned by Cape Verde, Messi's GOAT Case, Ronaldo Debate & England World Cup Preview Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to one of the biggest shocks of the World Cup so far as Cape Verde earn a stunning draw against Spain. Are Spain already in trouble, or is this just an early bump in the road? The guys also discuss whether Cape Verde can ride the momentum all the way to the knockout rounds before turning their attention to Lionel Messi. With what is likely his final World Cup underway, can Messi put the GOAT debate to rest forever by winning a second World Cup, or do Pelé and Maradona still have a claim to soccer immortality?

Next, The Cooligans break down Tunisia's decision to appoint World Cup specialist Hervé Renard as head coach for the remainder of the tournament. Can Renard work his magic once again and guide Tunisia to an unlikely place in the knockout stages? Christian and Alexis also debate Cristiano Ronaldo's role with Portugal and ask whether the legendary forward is still one of the team's biggest weapons—or whether his presence has become more of a problem than a solution.

To wrap up the show, the guys are joined by England presenter Michael Timbs to preview the Three Lions' World Cup campaign. Which players will be key to England's success? Can this generation finally deliver on decades of expectation? And after all these years, is football finally coming home?

Timestamps:
(1:00) — Cape Verde shock Spain

(7:45) - Can Messi cement GOAT status with 2nd World Cup win?

(18:15) - Tunisia hire Herve Renard for rest of World Cup run

(22:00) - Cristiano Ronaldo: Attacking weapon or roster headache?

(32:30) - England World Cup preview with Michael Timbs

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Biggest World Cup Takeaways, Tunisia Sack Their Coach & Can Haaland Lead Norway to Glory? Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down their biggest takeaways from an action-packed World Cup weekend, presented by Smirnoff Ice. Alexis explains why Mauricio Pochettino proved friendlies are meant for experimentation, why Scotland deserves to be taken seriously beyond their traveling support, and why Gio Reyna may have played his way into a major club transfer after the tournament. Christian highlights the atmosphere created by Zohran ticket winners at Brazil vs. Morocco, the technology that correctly overturned an offside call for Sweden, and why Tim Ream continues to prove he belongs in the USMNT lineup—and perhaps even deserves the captain's armband.

Next, the guys react to Tunisia's shocking decision to fire their head coach after a crushing 5-1 defeat to Sweden. Is Sweden's dominant start a sign that they're a genuine contender in this tournament? Christian and Alexis discuss what Tunisia's decision says about the pressure facing managers at the World Cup and whether Sweden may be flying under the radar.

To wrap up the show, The Cooligans turn their attention to Norway and debate whether Erling Haaland can be the player who finally delivers World Cup success for his country. The guys also preview the upcoming slate of matches, including Belgium vs. Egypt, Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay and Iran vs. New Zealand, before reacting to one of the most wholesome stories of the tournament: Dutch and Japanese supporters coming together to create unforgettable World Cup scenes.

Timestamps:
(2:00) — World Cup opening weekend takeaways

(15:15) - Tunisia sack head coach after 5-1 loss

(21:45) - Erling Haaland the man to bring World Cup glory to Norway?

(35:30) - Matchday preview

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Australia look dangerous, Brazil's World Cup Problems Grow & Japan Prove They Belong Among Elite Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick off the show by reacting to Australia's shocking victory over Türkiye. With the Socceroos continuing to exceed expectations on the world's biggest stage, the guys debate whether Australia could be a serious threat to the USMNT and whether they're becoming one of the tournament's most dangerous dark horses.

Next, The Cooligans turn their attention to Brazil after a disappointing performance against Morocco. Christian and Alexis break down what went wrong, whether Brazil's issues are temporary or more serious, and if one of the pre-tournament favorites might be headed for an earlier exit than anyone expected. Is Brazil truly a World Cup contender, or are they living off reputation?

To wrap up the show, the guys discuss Japan's gutsy draw against the Netherlands and what it says about their ability to compete with the world's elite teams. They also recap Scotland's clash with Haiti and Germany's meeting with Curacao, highlighting the biggest storylines, standout performances and surprises from another entertaining day at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Timestamps:
(5:30) — Australia a potential trap game for USMNT?

(20:00) - Brazil not a real contender in this World Cup?

(30:00) - Japan prove they belong amongst the big boys

(38:00) - Haiti vs Scotland & Germany vs Curacao reactions

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USMNT's Historic 4-1 Win Over Paraguay, Balogun's Brace, Gio Wondergoal & What's Next Jun 13, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react live to the USMNT's stunning 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The boys break down one of the most complete performances in modern U.S. Soccer history, discussing how Mauricio Pochettino's side overwhelmed a talented South American opponent with confidence, intensity and attacking quality. They also name Folarin Balogun their Player of the Match after his brilliant two-goal performance.

Then, Christian and Alexis dive deeper into the individual performances that powered the victory. From Gio Reyna's spectacular goal to Christian Pulisic's dominant first-half display, the guys explain why the USMNT looked every bit like a team capable of making noise in the tournament. They also give Chris Richards his flowers after a commanding defensive performance that set the tone from the opening whistle.

To wrap up the show, The Cooligans look ahead to the United States' next World Cup clash against Australia and debate just how far this team can realistically go in the tournament. The guys also recap Canada's impressive draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, discussing what the result means for Canada's chances of advancing and the growing strength of North American soccer on the world stage.

Timestamps:
(0:00) — Reacting to the USMNT's dominant performance

(10:30) — Balogun's Historic Night Breakdown

(19:30) — Pulisic's Performance Report Card

(23:30) - Chris Richards' near perfect performance

(32:00) - Looking ahead to next game vs Australia

(40:30) - Canada vs Bosnia & Herzegovina recap

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10 World Cup Stars to Watch, Trinity Rodman Joins & Matchday 1 Preview for the 2026 World Cup Jun 11, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick off The Cooligans by breaking down the 10 players every fan should be watching at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. From global superstars ready to dominate the tournament to breakout talents who could become household names overnight, the guys identify the players most likely to define the biggest sporting event on the planet.

Then, USWNT star Trinity Rodman joins the show to discuss the United States' intense recent friendlies against Brazil, what it's like seeing the World Cup come to the United States and what advice she would give the US Men's National Team as they prepare for the biggest tournament in the country's history. Trinity also shares her perspective on representing the U.S. on soccer's biggest stages and what makes major international competitions so special.

To wrap up the show, Christian and Alexis preview Matchday 1 of the World Cup, including Mexico's opener against South Africa and South Korea's showdown with Czechia. The guys also react to fans from around the globe experiencing America for the first time, sharing some of the funniest and most surprising moments from the opening days of the tournament.

Timestamps:
(1:00) - 10 World Cup players to watch for

(19:30) - Trinity Rodman oins The Cooligans

(37:00) - Matchday 1 preview

(46:00) - Reacting to fans experiencing America for the first time

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World Cup Predictions, Sofía Vergara, Eloy Room's Messi Story & USMNT History with Leander Schaerlaeckens Jun 08, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick off the show by making their biggest predictions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. From who will lift the trophy to who will win the Golden Boot and which nation could fall short of expectations, The Cooligans put their reputations on the line with their boldest World Cup takes. Then, Colombian actress and global superstar Sofía Vergara joins the show to talk about growing up in a soccer-obsessed Colombia, her favorite World Cup memories and why she's excited to see the tournament return to North America.

Next, Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room stops by to discuss one of the most remarkable stories of the 2026 World Cup. Room reflects on Curacao's historic qualification campaign, what it means to represent the smallest nation ever to reach the tournament and how Lionel Messi personally asked to swap jerseys after a match. He also shares stories from his career journey through Europe, MLS and international football.

To wrap up the show, USMNT historian and Guardian journalist Leander Schaerlaeckens joins The Cooligans to discuss the state of the United States Men's National Team heading into the World Cup. Leander explains why the USMNT's failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup may have accelerated the development of the current generation, breaks down America's chances of making a statement this summer and looks at what success would truly mean for the program on home soil.

Timestamps:
(8:30) - World Cup predictions

(32:00) - Sofia Vergara joins The Cooligans

(42:15) - Eloy Room joins The Cooligans

(1:04:00) - Leander Schaerlaeckens join The Cooligans

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World Cup Power Rankings, Alex Morgan's Advice for Pulisic & USMNT Stars on Home World Cup Pressure Jun 04, 2026

Show notes

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros unveil their official World Cup Power Rankings! Which nations make the top 15 heading into the tournament? Is the USMNT among the world's elite, or do they still have work to do? The guys debate the biggest contenders, surprise inclusions, notable omissions, and ultimately settle on their consensus favorite to lift the trophy.

Then, USWNT icon and World Cup champion Alex Morgan joins the show for an insightful conversation about retirement, motherhood, and her evolving life away from the pitch. Alex reflects on her legendary career and shares the advice she'd give Christian Pulisic as he prepares to carry the expectations of a nation at a home World Cup.

Later, USMNT defender Miles Robinson talks about the pressure and privilege of representing the United States on soccer's biggest stage, while Tim Weah and Mark McKenzie discuss what it means to have the World Cup coming to their home city of New York. They also explain why they chose to publicly address concerns surrounding the tournament's soaring ticket prices and what they hope fans take away from the conversation.

Timestamps:
(14:30) - World Cup power rankings

(28:00) - Alex Morgan joins The Cooligans

(50:00) - Miles Robinson joins The Cooligans

(59:00) - Tim Weah & Mark Mckenzie join The Cooligans

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USMNT Beat Senegal 3-2! Pulisic Is Back, MLS Call-Up Debate & Germany Warm-Up Preview May 31, 2026

Show notes

The Cooligans are LIVE with immediate reaction to the United States men's national soccer team’s thrilling 3–2 victory over the Senegal national football team in a high-stakes World Cup warm-up! Did the performance answer important questions, or raise even more concerns? We break down the biggest moments from the match, what stood out tactically, and whether the team showed enough to build momentum heading into the summer.

We also give Player of the Game honors to Christian Pulisic after a standout performance and ask the big question: is he officially back? Has he finally moved past his dry spell, and can he carry this momentum into the biggest tournament of his career? Plus, we debate whether major MLS-based call-ups are still limiting this squad’s ceiling and try to predict who ultimately wins the starting goalkeeper job.

Finally, we zoom out and ask whether this USMNT has matured enough to truly go far at the FIFA World Cup. Is this the moment the group finally comes together, or are there still warning signs? We also preview the final warm-up against Germany national football team and what the team must prove before the tournament officially begins.

Timestamps:
(6:30) - USMNT vs Senegal game breakdown

(17:15) - Player of the Game: Christian Pulisic

(35:00) - USMNT mature enough to make long World Cup run?

(48:45) - USMNT vs Germany game preview

Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:

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📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv