ESPN FC

The FC crew react to Inter Miami's 2-2 draw which saw the MLS side qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16. The guys also question why Barcelona would spend their limited funds on Nico Williams with other holes in the squad. Plus, Frank Leboeuf joins the show to explain why he thinks it's time for Chelsea to move on from Nicolas Jackson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sebastian Salazar, Herculez Gomez, Gab Marcotti, and Kasey Keller react to Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against Palmeiras, which advances both clubs to the FIFA Club World Cup knockout stage. Then, the guys react to the Seattle Sounders loss to Atlético Madrid and discuss the overall performance of the MLS in the Club World Cup. Plus, a look at reports linking Malik Tillman to Bayer Leverkusen and a look back at Landon Donovan's iconic goal vs Algeria in the World Cup 15 years ago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Atletico Madrid faces a bitter elimination from the Club World Cup, despite a win against Botafogo, raising questions about their performance and refereeing decisions. Discussions heat up around Chelsea's training adjustments in extreme temperatures and how this impacts player readiness. Pep Guardiola's preference for a smaller squad amid Manchester City's new signings adds fuel to the fire. Plus, the crew shares some light-hearted banter and highlights from the Gold Cup, showcasing standout talents like Malik Tillman.

The latest discussion highlights Flamengo's impressive victory over Chelsea in the Club World Cup and probes whether Nico Jackson has run out of excuses following another red card. Real Madrid's win over Pachuca sparks conversation about key player performances and the unsettling incidents of racial abuse. The hosts speculate on Paul Pogba's transfer to AS Monaco, while also celebrating Santi Carzola's role in Real Oviedo's return to La Liga after 24 years. The episode wraps up with insights on football ownership changes and the evolving landscape of the sport in the U.S.

Kasey Keller, a former USMNT goalkeeper with four World Cup appearances, shares his expert insights on the U.S. men’s national team's recent 2-1 victory over Haiti. He discusses standout performances from young talents like Malik Tillman and critiques the team's dynamic play as they prepare for stronger opponents. The conversation also highlights Mexico's performance in their 0-0 draw against Costa Rica and looks ahead to the crucial Gold Cup quarterfinals, examining the challenges both teams face.

Football journalist Sid Lowe joins to discuss Xabi Alonso's first victory with Real Madrid against Pachuca in the FIFA Club World Cup. The crew analyzes Real's resilience after a red card, highlighting key players' contributions. They delve into the excitement surrounding Liverpool's new signings, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, and how they could reshape the team. The conversation also touches on Pep Guardiola's thoughts about Manchester City's squad and the complexities of player transfers, revealing the intricacies of football management.

Bayern Munich clinched a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup knockout stage after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Boca Juniors, highlighted by a standout goal from Michael Olise. The crew delves into the implications of Nico Jackson's red card apology for Chelsea amidst their loss to Flamengo. Additionally, the buzz surrounding Florian Wirtz's move to Liverpool sparks discussions on new formations and strategies. With intense matches and lively atmospheres, excitement builds across the footballing world.

Florian Wirtz's record-breaking transfer to Liverpool sparks excitement about his potential impact on the squad. Chelsea's struggles after a 3-1 defeat to Flamengo raise questions about their future. The crew dives into South American teams outperforming European giants like PSG, and the contrasting mentalities in high-stakes matches. Fans of Boca Juniors express their passion ahead of a matchup against Bayern Munich, while the hosts share personal stories and engage in lighthearted banter about meals and football, blending serious issues with humor.

The USMNT celebrates a narrow victory over Saudi Arabia, qualifying for the Gold Cup quarterfinals. The discussion dives into tactical decisions and player performances, with a nod to fan engagement challenges. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi leads Inter Miami past Porto, marking a major milestone in North American football. Mexico's 2-0 win over Suriname adds to the mix, but its recent struggles raise questions about coaching strategies. The podcast also touches on lighthearted moments in soccer, including Sergio Ramos's unexpected pitching debut.

Alex Kirkland, an ESPN FC reporter covering Real Madrid, joins the crew to discuss the recent Club World Cup games. Inter Miami's thrilling 2-1 victory over Porto, driven by Messi's brilliance, steals the spotlight, while the challenges of adapting to a new coaching style plague Real Madrid after a draw with Al Hilal. Kirkland dives into transfer dynamics, notably Nico Williams' shift to Barcelona amid financial hurdles. The conversation also touches on the evolving fan culture and expectations for both teams moving forward.