France Find a Way

5 Jul 2026 · 57 min · 25 chapters

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In short

ESPN FC Extra Time episode analyzing France vs Paraguay (France advance to quarterfinals), then previewing Morocco vs France, plus round-of-16 previews Mexico vs England, Brazil vs Norway, and US vs Belgium.

Guests (panel)

Dan Thomas (host); Craig Burley (former player/analyst); Jermaine Jones (former player/analyst); Frank Leboeuf (former player/analyst); Anna Relieved (panelist); Mark Ogden and John Sutcliffe (reporters joining for previews).

Key claims

  • France’s 1-0 win came via a Kylian Mbappé penalty; Paraguay’s “park the bus”/complaining style made the match a poor spectacle.
  • Paraguay didn’t evolve from their 1998 approach vs France; Morocco is more capable than Paraguay but may still defend patiently and counter.
  • France must be more “100%” after looking sluggish early (heat cited).
  • Morocco-Canada: Canada dominated first half but lacked quality; Morocco scored after halftime and punished chances.

Notable examples

  • Paraguay’s penalty-spot antics; comparisons to 1998 France-Paraguay.
  • Canada’s first-half control vs Morocco; Morocco’s patience and structured counterattacks.
  • Mexico City altitude as the X-factor for Mexico vs England; Norway’s Haaland matchup vs Brazil.

Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.

Chapters

Tap a time to open that second in VO

World Cup Quarterfinals Overview

0:28 to 0:46

Discussion begins on France and Morocco advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals.

“There weren't really many in the two matches.”

France vs. Paraguay: Match Analysis

0:46 to 1:20

Analysis of France's lackluster performance against Paraguay in the World Cup.

“I'm Dan Thomas, joined by Craig Burley, Jermaine Jones, Anna Relieved and quite angry Frank considering France made it through to the final eight.”

Critique of Paraguay's Gameplay

1:20 to 2:14

Frank criticizes Paraguay’s defensive strategy and lack of ambition in the match.

“France make it through a Kylian Mbappe penalty with 20 minutes to go.”

Discussion on Defensive Strategies

2:14 to 3:40

The hosts debate the merits and downsides of Paraguay's defensive play style.

“I had sympathy for Encido the first half.”

Historical Comparison of Paraguay's Play

3:40 to 6:40

Discussion on Paraguay's unchanged football strategy over the years and its implications.

“It became an open game and you saw what the US did to them.”

Evolution of Football Tactics

6:40 to 8:28

The hosts discuss how modern football has evolved and the risks of playing defensively.

“So 11-11, I think they have, you know, but for me, there was not a lot of countries to watch with Surrey, but this country with Paraguay in Scotland, pooh.”

France's Performance Review

8:28 to 11:22

Analysis of France's performance and their potential challenges in upcoming matches.

“maybe it will be an eye-opener to other countries in the future to say, you know we can't go there and defend with a way to success.”

Morocco's Tactical Mastery Against Canada

14:00 to 17:49

Analyze Morocco's strategy and performance in their match against Canada.

“Morocco then once again through to the quarterfinals of the World Cup as Canada on the losing end of a 3-0 scoreline.”

Canada's World Cup Performance and Future Prospects

17:50 to 20:38

Discuss Canada's performance in the World Cup and their potential for growth.

“and still look at it a little bit, I think they would get punished real quick.”

Anticipating the France vs. Morocco Matchup

20:39 to 22:38

Examine the upcoming match between France and Morocco, considering emotional stakes.

“It's getting all the adulation his coach the Pochettino probably right off into the sunset at the end of this World Cup Jesse master No, that's it's no chance I'm pretty sure there's no way too far.”
Show all 25 chapters

Match Predictions and Tactical Insights

22:39 to 24:04

Explore predictions and tactical considerations for the France vs. Morocco game.

“because we have many players like Boudreau who play for the national team until lately.”

Match Predictions and Tactical Insights

26:36 to 26:58

Explore predictions and tactical considerations for the France vs. Morocco game.

“And let me tell you, game day is serious business at my house.”

Previewing Mexico vs. England

27:05 to 28:00

Delve into the upcoming match between Mexico and England, discussing key factors.

“So then Sunday is all about Mexico against England at the Azteca.”

Analyzing Mexico vs. England Matchup

28:00 to 30:26

Discussion on the conditions and preparations for the upcoming match between Mexico and England.

“I can tell you if the heat and the smog is the same tomorrow as it's been today, it's going to be very difficult.”

The Impact of Altitude on Performance

30:26 to 34:20

Exploration of how altitude affects player performance and game strategy.

“But I understand that there are differences.”

Expectations for the Game

34:20 to 36:59

Predictions and expectations from the hosts regarding the match outcome.

“I think everywhere else in the world, I would put England.”

Expectations for the Game

37:28 to 38:29

Predictions and expectations from the hosts regarding the match outcome.

“You look at the talent that's on the show.”

Previewing Brazil vs. Norway

39:29 to 42:00

In-depth analysis and predictions for the Brazil vs. Norway match.

“I've been to Norway's last two games, and in both press conferences, Brazilian journalists are asking the question, Norway have never lost to Brazil.”

Previewing Brazil vs Norway

42:00 to 44:36

An in-depth analysis of Brazil and Norway's strengths and weaknesses ahead of their match.

“especially with the three in the front, you know, because if you take Haaland, he is the one, the main guy.”

US Team's Expectations vs Belgium

44:36 to 45:01

Discussion on the US team's performance expectations against Belgium.

“There's no doubt about it, but I just think the Brazilians and the Samba...”

Tim Ream's Insights on US Strategy

45:01 to 48:29

Tim Ream discusses the strategies, strengths, and weaknesses of the US team against Belgium.

“Will that continue against Belgium or will it end in a nightmare?”

Evaluating Belgium's Performance

48:29 to 51:47

An analysis of Belgium's recent performances and concerns about their aging squad.

“Now, you give Belgium credit for digging it out.”

Debating Argentina vs Cape Verde

51:47 to 55:50

A panel discussion comparing the performances of Argentina and Cape Verde in recent matches.

“Right, so you could have just said that.”

Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

55:50 to 56:00

Wrap-up of discussions with light banter and reflections on the podcast episode.

“Do you really have an answer or do you just want to bother everybody?”

Light-hearted Banter on TV Appearances

56:00 to 57:38

Explore the humorous side of seeing oneself on television and personal anecdotes.

“Someone says something in your ear and you just say it.”
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Transcript

Automatic transcript. May contain errors.

0:00This Friday, the ocean shows you to save us all. The stories are true. The story has just begun. From Disney. Moana Amotenui, daughter of the chief. Let's save the world. Ready? It's Maui time.

0:21I'm gonna eat whatever that is. His name is Heihei. Boat's net. Disney's Moana. In theaters Friday. Rated PG. For rental guidance suggested. Get tickets now.

0:364th of July in New York. We're waiting for fireworks here. We're waiting for fireworks today. There weren't really many in the two matches. However, it is France and Morocco who advance to the quarterfinals of the World Cup. Welcome in to the ESPN FC studios. I'm Dan Thomas, joined by Craig Burley, Jermaine Jones, Anna Relieved and quite angry Frank considering France made it through to the final eight. Later on, Mark Ogden and John Sutcliffe will be here as we'll be looking ahead to two cracking ties tomorrow as Mexico take on England and it's Brazil against Norway. But we'll kick things off with a game that finished earlier.

1:12France taking on, who were they playing? Paraguay. I completely forgot. You want to forget it. It was horrible as a spectacle. France make it through a Kylian Mbappe penalty with 20 minutes to go. proved to be the difference. Frank, relief? Is that the right word? Yeah, I would say relief, but upset. You're right to say that because I think it takes two to tango. Yes, France didn't have maybe the best game, but it's impossible to play against a team like that. They refused to play. Every action, every decision from the referee will be like 30 years ago with many, many teams in South America, let's say, where you have to complain, you have to discuss, You have to not be okay with any decision.

1:59I'm fed up with that football. You know, really, especially when we saw Cape Verde trying to do something yesterday, losing with pride. I'm sorry, but that Paraguay team was everything that I hate about football. And that's unfair to a World Cup. And unfair to their fans. I mean, they offer anything. Nothing, sorry. They just defend, kick the ball high. I had sympathy for Encido the first half. when he was running at front, not touching the ball, trying to defend. But that's the only thing he did. Almiron as well. That's impossible to play that. I mean, the coach should have maybe had a little bit of a thought about how they can get the ball a little bit tactically to go and try to upset the French team.

2:42Nothing. We knew that as soon as French scored, that was over. Because there was nothing to be offered by the Paraguay team. Let's play devil's advocate. Yeah, OK. try. Are you saying the best form of Paraguay getting a result was to try and outplay France? Yeah, but the thing is it's not only the fact that you only defend. It's the fact that you contest everything. You're never happy with anything. Imagine on the penalty. Have you seen the guy dipping a hole on the penalty spot? That's the mentality. Yeah, but it has to stop. No, it doesn't have to stop. The referee has to give a yellow card to that guy.

3:21Look, I hated the game. I hated the game but it's not Paraguay's job to make us happy all the fans all the viewing public at home all the stadium it's their job to find a way to get a result now I don't like it but that's where it is if they go toe-to-toe with France they get battered the French are the best team in the tournament Paraguay tried to open up against the US they got battered if they had done that against the US which they didn't maybe they got off to a better start but they thought they could go toe-to-toe with the United States. It became an open game and you saw what the US did to them.

3:57If that's what the US did to them, what would the French have done to them? So I can understand the way they did it. I don't like it. I don't like to watch it. It's not a good spectacle and it's not been in the sort of spirit of how most of the games at the World Cup have been played. But at the end of the day, that's their decision. That's the way they've gone. They thought that was the best way to try and rile the French, to try and get under the skin, to whack Mbappe, to just annoy everybody, to complain to the referee. They thought that was the best avenue to get a result. And be honest, it was pretty close.

4:33What do you think, Jermaine? Yeah, you know, for me, it's this. For a football fan, I think it was terrible to watch, you know, but I'm exactly with him, you know, with Crick. It's like, at the end, they try to just get in the head of the French player and they know the individual class is on the side of France. so if they start playing with them the risk is that you finish the game early after 20 minutes it's gone the game you know so but everything else I think when you watch the game you sit in front of the TV and say man what is this yes especially after yesterday where you just fell in love you had two days in a row I can't remember was the Portugal-Croatia game two days ago yeah so you had Portugal-Croatia and then you had Cape Verde against Argentina absolute classics but for me it's just And this is my point on it.

5:19Where I look at it and say, at least when you lose, lose in a way that the people say, stand up and say, man, that's right. Sure. You know? Yeah, but you're saying the opposite of what you just said. So, you know, now you see this team, they're going away from the tournament. Everybody says, thank God, they're out of that. But the thing is, in 98, we played against Paraguay in the last 16. And it was exactly the same game, the same football. So they didn't evolve. They didn't try anything. And it's been 28 years. So you can try maybe in 98 to play against France and get up because we play at home and get a result because you want to reach the penalty.

5:53Okay, that's fine. But 28 years ago, it's a copycat of what we've seen 28 years ago. And that's impossible for me. They are talented. South American players, football players, are so talented. They have skills. Use them. Try to get something out of it. Maybe it will take time. Maybe you will have some bad days. But try something. None of these Paraguay players are getting into this France team. So they have to use the resources that they have. And those resources were the shut-up shot to try and frustrate France and try and get it to penalties or maybe nick one of them. The resources that you are saying, you have to change your football and your mentality at some point because it doesn't go anywhere.

6:38So let's say that they're not going to change. So 20 years from now, they're going to be the same kind of team. Right. Well, you know, this is a two like I think in we all agree that in the game you were seen Little bit of faces where Paraguay was playing in the front and you were able to see okay They can play if they want they're just I think their focus in their game plan was How can we you know keep the zero as long as possible? How we can get some of the special key players from them Bitter it in the head to get them out of the game then we will get our chances because then it gets an open game with 10 against 11 is maybe a better luck and a better chance.

7:15So 11-11, I think they have, you know, but for me, there was not a lot of countries to watch with Surrey, but this country with Paraguay in Scotland, pooh. Oh, I was pining for Scotland today. Scotland were super exciting compared to this Paraguay team. Oh, yeah, I agree. And look, there's no right and wrong way to win a World Cup or any game in any league in any country. There's no right and wrong way. There's just winning and losing. However, this World Cup and most of the domestic football we watch around the world and particularly Europe these days, the football has evolved. And the teams that are playing with fear in this World Cup are going home.

7:50And I'm all for that. Exactly. And I want to see the exciting teams. Now, unfortunately, Cape Verde have gone home and they went out on their sword. But the teams that are playing defensive football in general are getting beat. It's not working. so the teams that are playing and look, this is not France because France are one of the favourites but even the so-called second string teams that are trying to go for it are sometimes getting rewarded and I think at the end of the day as long as we see that towards the 16, the quarters, the semi-finals that it is the teams that are going to go for it and not the teams that are trying to defend their way to this World Cup maybe it will be an eye-opener to other countries in the future to say, you know we can't go there and defend with a way to success.

8:36We have to go there and get on the front foot. And to be fair, a lot of teams have done that. Paraguay have been one of the teams that have not. Frank, then what do we learn about the French side today? Again, it's exactly what I said for the 20 minutes of the beginning of the game against Sweden, where I didn't feel them ready to give 100%. So France has only one enemy, it's themselves. So if they don't put every tools that they need to put on and with all the talent that they have They're gonna they can struggle against any team because you have to be at 100 % in order to do something They're gonna play against Morocco.

9:13It's gonna be a special game Lots of rivalry and at the same time friendship is complicated if Players like Michael Lise that I found a little bit sloppy and the first half which is not what he showed to the world normally, we can be surprised by the opponent. So if France can take from that game that they have to be more into the game, more tuned in, and give 100%, they can struggle. They have to use that. But I'm sure DJ Deschamps told them, and maybe even half-time, he told them to not fall for what the Paraguay players were inviting them to go to but I think he said, oh, we're not giving enough.

10:02We're not giving enough. You have to give more. You're capable of giving more. He hasn't been shown because, again, he takes two to tango. It's very difficult when the opener park the bus but they have to be more effective. I don't know if Morocco can do what Paraguay did. I think we saw today why Paraguay had the defensive record in the ball that they did And I think that was why it was a surprise when they played the US, that they got destroyed in the way that they did, because their defensive record in qualification and some of the results was actually very good. And we saw that today, how compact and organised they were.

10:41Morocco are clearly a better side. The big question is, can Morocco defend in the manner in which Paraguay did? Because that's their staple diet. It's not Morocco's staple diet. We'll actually talk about that game a little bit later on. Why were France sloppy? We saw in the opening 20 minutes of the Sweden game. We saw it today as well. As much as Panama. As much as Paraguay. It was very hard today. You really have forgotten. You have to take that into consideration. It was very hard today. So when you are in full speed, like Mbappé, Dembélé, or Lise, it takes lots of energy. And then you need to recover to do it and do it and do it and do it.

11:16It was possible against Sweden. It was quite impossible today because of the heat. Is that a fair excuse? But I don't think that France was sloppy. I think just that that's like a boxer who is the champion and fights against somebody who's, you know, tried to get his title. So France was in this game and trying to figure out, okay, what is Paragry doing? And they have to get a little bit, you know, a feeling for Paragry's, what they're doing. And you were able to see Paragry's just was there to stop them and not even play forward. We know that France's game is the transition game. So if you play a transition game with them, they destroy you.

11:50So but I think that the whole time was pretty sure that the coach Deschamps He said in halftime keep your time be patient wait You will we have the individual quality quality. We have better players We will get the chances and it was just a matter of time that one of them comes through that a penalty comes or something because the Individual quality is just there in that game today They have to learn to be patient just to wait that it is not everything works out straight away You have to be patient, wait for the moment, and then if you get the game, we will win it. So at the end, you have to give credit to Paraguay that they made it so difficult for them.

12:25On the other side, you have to give respect to friends that they were patient, they waited, and they were not letting the Paraguay player get in their head. And at the end, they won 0-1, and they go to the next game. And I think the next game will be a completely different game. As Craig mentioned, Morocco will be their opponents in the quarterfinals, a repeat of what we saw four years ago in Qatar. After the break, we're reflecting on Morocco's victory over Canada, which maybe the scoreline shows a little more convincing than it actually was.

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14:05Morocco then once again through to the quarterfinals of the World Cup as Canada on the losing end of a 3-0 scoreline. Strange games this. Canada dominated the first half. Morocco scored, though, five minutes after break. Lovely finish from Unai. And then that pretty much set the tone for the rest of the game. Morocco going on to win by three goals to nil. It was like Morocco gave Canada a half-time, like a half-star. They didn't turn up for the first 45 minutes. And it's not the first... I'm sorry, I'm going to have to mention Scotland again. I do apologise. I know they've gone home, rightly so.

14:40But they actually did the same thing against Scotland. They've done it in a couple of games in this tournament so far. They started really well against Brazil for half an hour. And then the second half, it was a sort of tit-for-tat with Brazil. But you know they can dominate some of the better teams. They have good players. Talking about Paraguay as we did. Yeah, exactly. Not doing anything. Canada at least went out having left nothing on the table. Right? but there's no way they should have dominated Morocco with the players Morocco have as much as they did in the first half and that would be the concern for them that if they allow France that kind of territory albeit today France struggle with a lot of ball but Morocco won't defend I mean they may defend a little deeper but they won't defend with everybody behind the ball like that so yeah Canada really good performance for 45 minutes unfortunately for them they just lacked the quality that the Moroccans have And I think at the end of the day, the best side went through.

15:39Yeah, we talked about Paraguay and saying that they didn't have any other option than defending. Maroukou, it's a skill. They know how to defend. They know how to be patient. And they know how to counterattack and score goals. That's what happened today. And they showed it very well. They were patient. They were structured. And as soon as they had an opportunity, they scored a goal. And they scored another one. And they finished the job. That's what it is. That's why France will have to be aware of and ready for that. Because they're going to be patient. They're going to wait for France. And if you have an opportunity to score in a contract, they're going to do so.

16:15That was the difference with Paraguay today. And they have big qualities. They weren't waiting for Canada. They were getting rolled over for quite a period of the first half, which was a concern. Well, maybe. The fact that Canada didn't have enough quality. It happened a lot of times where we would say, oh, Morocco, they've been struggling. One game, two games, three games, maybe it's a tactic. Right. Maybe they do it on purpose. They let it go and they give you the confidence that you need. Yeah. Bye-bye. That's what it is. That's a skill for me. And because they have the players, so I don't know if the striker is going to be back, Saibari, I think.

16:52but overall with Unai and of course Hakimi on the right side they have all the structure of Boadi in the middle of the park to annoy all the teams and to wait for them so maybe you would think that Canada were over Morocco I'm not sure I'm not really sure about that I think it's part of the tactic That's dangerous though isn't it? Because Canada had chances in that first half Oh 100 % Canada I think if they use their chances then it's a whole different game. And we all know it. If you score a goal, it's a completely different game. But at the end, they don't score the goal. And then we can talk.

17:31Now, Frank said that maybe Morocco was lucky that they were not scored on. But then at the end, they had the chances and they put the goals away. So and then it's a game that plays completely into their hands. Canada has to come in as a break. I don't know and I don't believe that Morocco can do the same against France. If they sit back and they say, let's figure this out. and still look at it a little bit, I think they would get punished real quick. But I think with Morocco against France, it's a completely different picture because there's way more emotion comes in. And I think it would be from both sides.

18:04We're a little bit south from Paraguay, what they did. I think that will fire up that game because there's not only this game, it's how you present your country, even back in France, because there's a lot of connections between both countries. So it would be, I think, I think that would be a top, top game to watch. How would you rate Canada's World Cup overall? I think they present them pretty good, you know, and I think we all were surprised that when we watched the games, I think they were, you know, playing attacking football, they're going forward. And I think when we talk about the couple of years, you can see Canada as a country were developed over the couple of years.

18:42So, and I think that's always, if you as a federation, you look and say, okay, we're getting better. We're getting better now. Now we have with Jesse somebody too, Jesse March, who's really excited to be there. Yes. So now they can build on that. It hits the US now with Jesse March. Speaking of Jesse March, he's always good for a quote after the game. This is what he had to say. What a privilege. Our fans have to follow a team like this that goes after the game like this and doesn't play defensive and shows they can be better. I'd rather be us than them. As good as Morocco are, I'd rather be us.

19:14I couldn't be happier. No, he didn't mean us. He meant I'd rather be US.

19:22That's good for you. What does he mean, I'd rather be us than them? He would prefer to be Canada than Morocco. Even if he lost. Because he was attacking. Yes. To be fair, that's 10 out of 10 at patting yourself on the back. How great did we play? Yes. Bye-bye. He is a good coach, but some of the things he said recently, It does smack. There's something I said back in Bristol a few days ago, that he's looking at the adulation thus far coming Maurizio Pochettino's way and to the players and how the country's sort of getting behind this run and everybody's talking about Balogun, who's going to replace him and can they beat Belgium?

20:02And you just know, you just know that he is seriously irked that over the last few years he has been overlooked for this job. I think in his mind, because he doesn't lack any confidence, and that's fine, that's his character, but he is a very good coach. And I think when he closes his eyes at night, of an evening, he thinks, I should be the man in the middle at the moment coaching this US team to something potentially historic. And as well as Canada did, and as well as Canada played, I think, and it's only my opinion, that that is eating away at him, that at the moment is Pochettino. It's getting all the adulation his coach the Pochettino probably right off into the sunset at the end of this World Cup Jesse master No, that's it's no chance I'm pretty sure there's no way too far.

20:54Yeah, there's there's such too much happen But I agree to that he in in my eyes is normally before more to put you know I think he should be the head coach, you know what when they rehired Greg bear help Yeah, that was the time to put that when they rehired the same guy That was the time because you had and if you look at all American coaches He's the one who really achieved something outside of the US. So in in in I believe that himself thought like They will come now and get me but at the end he realized quick quick that The the US soccer landscape is a little bit different than just yeah forming outside of the US So he's very much ostracized from that landscape exactly is that forever?

21:36And so, and now it's done. When he was saying stuff like when I was with Bob Bradley, assistant coach, and the players, we had to push them to sing the national anthem and all this stuff that he's trying to put out. And I know it comes from the inside because he's hurting, because he wants to be this coach and he wants to bring this country forward. But now with all of what he said, I think he closed the door not only twice. I think he crashed the door of him and slammed it. And I don't think he has not even a close chance to be the head coach of the U.S. Time is a healer, Daniel. Oh, yes. Yeah.

22:09Maybe. Time is a healer. Memory of an elephant over there. Morocco, then, to take on France, a repeat of the semifinal that we saw in the World Cup four years ago. That was a terrible match. It was. This morning, we're already looking for the result. I know, we can't remember what happened. France had two shots on target, scored both for them. They went through. There's no way to think that this is going to be a barnstormer, is it? I'm scared that it could be the same kind of scenario in the way that the rivalry is so big. At the same time, we're saying that it's friendship because we have many players like Boudreau who play for the national team until lately.

22:48And so we all know the players. They're players. They all know each other. And it's going to be a tough game. The quality is on both sides. And because of the pressure that all the media is going to put and the fans as well, it's going to be tricky. So it's not going to be an open game. I don't think so. I think it's going to be very tactical. It might be a lot physical. And I'm expecting a great game of football. I want to see that. But I have doubts about that. I think it would be... Do you think it's similar? Like an Mbappe penalty, 1-0, is what we're going to see? No, no. I think because they have the quality, both sides, the offensive quality, we might see stuff.

23:28But you have two great goalkeepers as well who are going to do their job. And let's see. I think from both sides, you will expect to have a nice referee to make sure that everything is neutral. What's your prediction? Well, I would have to go for France. You don't have to do anything. Oh, yes. I love my country. I'm back in Mexico tomorrow. Don't you worry about that. Yeah. No, no. I will say 2-1 for France. 2-1 for France. Jermaine? I will go with 2-1 Morocco. Really? Why? So, no, Frank? No, no. I always said, I said it already before. And I think that Morocco, they're uncomfortable to play. And I showed it again, that they don't need a lot of chances to score.

24:15So, and I think they will get chances too, especially with an open game against France. And I think that they're, yeah, I had them some, even before the tournament. I said, Morocco, they're uncomfortable and I think they can go far. Okay. Deciding vote. Just name me several things that are no, Frank, and I'll just reel them off. Everything you first. David Ginola. No, but not alone. Leave me alone with David. People on French TV. Yeah, exactly. No, tight game, but I think I'll be a bit more open. Right. And I think when it becomes a bit more open, the French at the moment are just the best in the world.

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24:57And that front four didn't play particularly well today and Barca got taken off, but it was tight spaces to try and play. If that opens up the French beat. I think it would be very interesting to see who Deschamps will decide to play against Hakimi. Right. Between Dewey and Barcola. Right. Because they play for Paris Saint-Germain. All of them. So it's going to be very interesting to see what would be the tactical battle. We'll be discussing that, of course, later on in the week. But coming up after the break, we'll be focusing on one of the big round of 16 games on Sunday, which sees Mexico take on England.

25:30John Sutcliffe is there. He's happy. Mark Ogden as well to join us. Let's get the Mexican English view.

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27:41So then Sunday is all about Mexico against England at the Azteca. Mark Ogden is here to give us the English view. We'll hear from Mark in a moment. But first, we'll start with John Sutcliffe, our ESPN Deportes reporter. There's a big delay because of the altitude. We'll blame everything on the altitude, shall we? John are Mexico the favorites going into this? Yeah

28:07Well the betting houses say no actually England is a favorite in this game but I do think this is the best opportunity Mexico has had in a long time to get something done in a knockout stage it's not a coincidence it took them 40 years to win a World Cup game of knockout in this same stadium at this same altitude. I can tell you if the heat and the smog is the same tomorrow as it's been today, it's going to be very difficult. I've covered other sports. I've seen Roger Federer having trouble hitting a tennis ball. I've seen Tiger Woods having trouble hitting golf balls because it's not just the altitude.

28:49The higher you kick the football, there's less resistance. So I can assure you that this afternoon, the England club training at Puma's facility, they realized that everything moves differently. It moves quicker. The higher you hit it, the higher it goes. So I do think Mexico has a great opportunity. But I guess the British invented the betting partners. The betting world says that England should win. But I think Javier Aguirre is very happy not to be the favorite team on Sunday here. John, a lot of talk about the weather going into that clash. Confirm the kickoff time will be in the evening.

29:38Yes, there's a big concern from the Mexican government that all the parties and all the fiestas in Reforma and the Angels of Independence, they wanted to start the game earlier just because of that. They thought that if it was a noon game, they would have more control in the celebrating. And at the same time, FIFA had agreed to do the change. Because if you put the game at noon, it was 7 p.m. in UK time, prime time. You can sell your spots for a higher price. But finally, information came out. FIFA didn't like the idea that social media was talking about something. They haven't said anything officially.

30:17so nothing happened even though my sources tell me that FIFA had agreed to change it to noon it became again at 6pm Mexico City time Mark you were here yesterday telling us about beetroot juice any other information you'd like to bring us how they can deal with the altitude is there a feeling from England that they could really go out tomorrow there's a respect for Mexico and there's a respect for the conditions that they're in but I think England also believe that they're one of the best teams in this tournament and they've got some world-class players and I think team for team England are the better team England should win this game but the x factor is the conditions it's the altitude it's the the lack of preparation time it's the flying in late last night it's the you know the uncertainty about the kick-off time all these things have kind of have made it more of a level playing field so there is a concern but listen England have played in Mexico City before everyone talks about the hand of God game in 86 but they actually beat Paraguay three and under and before that English players have actually They're playing Mexico and won.

31:15They're not playing on the moon. But I understand that there are differences. And it's been made a big issue because it's such a big game. But I think on itself, I can see why England are favourites. But I think there's a respect towards the Mexico team. Because yes, they've won three games without conceding a goal. Is it four games without conceding a goal? So they're a very good team. But player for player, team for team, England are the better team. What are you expecting tomorrow, Jermaine? Yeah, myself, I played there. So I know how it is. And I can only say when I played there after 30 minutes in when we came into halftime, I need an oxygen tank in a mask to breathe.

31:50How does it feel like trying on the field? You feel like, oh, you can run. And then after 30 minutes, it feels like somebody hit you with a with a hammer, you know, in the forehead. And it's really difficult. And it's not easy to explain because you think it's football. You have to figure it out. And I think the biggest key would be how much is England ready to battle and hit that, you know, the highest point where you feel like you're tired, but still keep going. Because you will feel like your stomach hurts. Like they already said, if you hit a ball, the ball flies way higher and farther. There's so many things that you have to put into it, into the game.

32:25It's not just playing. So it will be difficult. That's why I believe that it will be Mexico who will win this game because Mexico will go the first 30 minutes full power. They will press. They will go do everything they can do because they know the conditions are on their side. So even if England tries to manage it and try to figure out, okay, a little bit, they have to go and match the speed from Mexico. So Mexico knows that. And that's a clear advantage that they can play in that sticker. We know England can play. Well, I say we know. England can play better than they play against the DR Congo.

32:58There's no doubt about that. Now, can they reach a level good enough to win this World Cup? That's a huge question. But I know they can play better. And as Augie said, they are man for man better than this Mexican team. So when I watch this game, the main thing I'm going to be intrigued about in the first 20 minutes is not how they pass the ball, it's how they deal with the conditions. It's how the players are looking. Who have you got winning this? Well, if England can somehow handle... And I've never played at altitude, as we mentioned the other day, so I don't know. But all I'm hearing from Jermaine and everybody else and people that have been there is it can just cause you so many problems.

33:37And you can't play any sport, elite sport, when you're feeling like that. So it completely depends on how England handle these conditions. If England are able to overcome, for the most part, the altitude issue, I think they'll win the game. But if they don't, I can't see how physically, over 90 gruelling minutes in the Azteca, if these conditions affect them in a way that I know what they are worried about. I don't think they can win the match. So it completely comes down to the altitude and how they cope with it for me. So you're edging Mexico, if I was to make you pick? If you were to make me pick at the moment, I would go Mexico because I don't know how England are going to overcome the conditions that everybody, including John, have described.

34:19I'm 100 % with Craig. I think everywhere else in the world, I would put England. But playing at this altitude, I think it's an X factor, as Mark said. And we have stories about Brazil going to Bolivia and not being able to play after 15 minutes and losing any new. They lose the game, but they know they're going to win the second leg. That's what it is. And it's why. It's going to be very hard. And any human being will know now that the England players are going to suffer. They're going to struggle, and it's going to be very, very hard. And we saw Mexico against Ecuador. And the tempo, the rhythm that the Mexicans put, they exactly know what they're doing.

34:57It's almost unbearable. If we had the budget and the time, I would have flown down to Mexico City and had a little run around a few miles. Yeah, I know. We looked into it and a one-way ticket was all right, actually. In the end, we had to get Mark on. John, how big a party will there be in Mexico if they beat England?

35:22Just not in Mexico. In the United States, I can tell you the most sold World Cup jersey in the US is the Mexican national team, El Verde, the green one. There's no question. That's why the Mexican government was trying to see a way of moving up the game till noon instead of 6 o 'clock Eastern, just because they were worried that the fiesta is going to last till the wee hours, till 5, 6 in the morning. There's a real concern about how people will react. Remember, Mexicans, we don't have a lot of superstars. We have Canelo Alvarez, a boxer, Checo Perez in Formula One, and Mexico is dying. The fans are dying to celebrate.

36:03They're dying to have a star in the national team. Remember, I just told you guys, 40 years ago, in this same stadium, it was the last time Mexico won a knockout round stage in the World Cup. and we all know that this stadium with the fans and also the smog, the contamination, is also a factor that's going to be against England. So this is the biggest opportunity Mexico has had in four decades to be a world champion, be... Javier Aguirre said by far the Premier League is the best league in the world and everything's set up to give Mexico an opportunity. You're going to see go after England in the first 30 minutes.

36:45they're going to try in and make them feel that this stadium, this altitude, these fans are going to make them struggle. And what happens when the altitude hits concentration, and that's what mistakes happen. And I think the Mexican team is looking, if the English side is getting tired, mistakes can be the difference to see who advances to Miami next week. John Sutcliffe, absolute legend. Thank you very much for joining us. Just a reminder, special ESPN FC tomorrow, live at 3 p.m. on ESPN2, as we count down to those two round of 16 matches. The first one sees Brazil take on Norway. We'll be talking about that game after the break.

37:28You look at the talent that's on the show. In these two sides, the amount of attacking quality, it should be a belter.

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39:13So the first game on Sunday at the MetLife. Brazil against Norway.

39:25Pitch Preview is brought to you by DraftKings Sports.

39:33Mark, you've got the golden ticket. Yeah. This should be brilliant, shouldn't it? Absolutely. I've been to Norway's last two games, and in both press conferences, Brazilian journalists are asking the question, Norway have never lost to Brazil. Are you going to beat Brazil again? They're really worried about playing Norway. Because of that record, I think Norway beat them in the World Cup in France in 98 as well. They did, the final game. Yeah, and obviously the Haaland factor. So, Norway are a much better team than back in the 90s when they were quite direct. I mean, older guys. Yes they are They were number six In the FIFA ranking Back in 98 They're better to watch They're better to watch But it's It's a game that Suddenly the FIFA rankings Well But This Brazil team Isn't the best we've ever seen I don't think And I think they are Gettable In terms of Can you beat them But The Haaland factor It's Haaland versus Gabriel Which has obviously got a bit of Spice to it as well And we haven't really seen A lot of Brazil yet So There's a slight confidence In the Norwegians They can win this game This should be great shouldn't it Yeah Yeah, absolutely.

40:29And don't forget, Norway came into this World Cup. I think they were perfect in qualification. Yeah. You know, in Italy, who didn't qualify, didn't have a bad qualification, but they drew one game and they were out. Norway were pitch perfect. I think it depends how they defend against the Brazilian front line. There's no doubt they could match them for the legs in the middle of the park. And there's no doubt that they can create chances at the other end, depending who plays, if it's Solov and Haaland or whoever it is, Martin Odegaard, they have the players to cut this Brazilian team open. But can they...

41:05I don't think for a minute we're looking at a 0-0 here at all. This is a Norwegian side that actually go into this game thinking, do you know what? We are not scared of this Brazilian team and we can go toe-to-toe with them. And if they get the ball to Erling Haaland and one or two of these bigger lads have got up front, they could cause Brazil a right few problems. Yeah, they're going to go for it. And for me, they're the favorites, according to what we saw before the World Cup. They were the favorites. No, Norwegian. They are the favorites for me, according to what I saw, according to what Brazil presented before the World Cup.

41:37Brazil is getting better into my mind in the way that for the three games that they play, they were better than before. But the confidence that the Norwegian team has right now into their football makes me feel that they're going to go for it and they're going to win that game. What are you expecting, Germain? I think that too, that Norway has a really, really good chance, especially with the three in the front, you know, because if you take Haaland, he is the one, the main guy. But then you have Nusa, you have Stoller. They're guys too. You have to be really careful. and I don't see Brazil right now so stable, especially that you feel like, oh, this three cannot hurt him.

42:19So Haaland showed it already, not only in club level, he showed it here at the World Cup too, that he don't need a lot of chances and he scored. Nusa made an amazing goal now in the last game. So Norway has an amazing attack and I think there's something where they definitely can get something out of the game. Rafinha training today, obviously, has missed quite a bit of the Grix. Yeah, it'd be a gamble to put him back in. but I think the key is in midfield because it's, can Casemiro cope against Sanderberg, Patrick, but there's a lot of energy in the Norway midfield and Casemiro was hot and cold against Japan.

42:48Very much so, cold then hot. Yeah, but he's, obviously he's delivered, but this could be a game where Brazil's lack of legs in midfield really pays. He delivered with a goal, but he got outpaced. I mean, he was booked and then he got outpaced for that Japanese goal. And the first goal is because he gave a bad pass. It's quite embarrassing, actually. They really don't have the legs in the middle of the park. Paketa I think is injured but he has struggled so they don't have the legs and that's one thing that Norwegian are in the middle of the park they're very workman like as Augie said they can get up and down and they can get their foot in and they can defend it's how much control of the ball they can they can have and how much possession they can get in that Brazilian final third because if they get good quality balls in the box we're going to see a great battle with Gabriel again

43:38I'm going to go for Brazil. Of what I've said, despite thinking that Norway got a leg. So you're talking nonsense. Yeah, basically. I just think Brazil's quality of any junior has been delivering this World Cup, so I think Brazil will sneak it to one. OK. I'm not neutral also because I'm a Viking descendant, so I have to go for Norway. You don't have to do anything. Yeah, because I'm... What part of Scandinavia have you descended from? It's none of your business. I thought they had flowing long blonde hair. Yeah, I had a nice feature. You could have said... I had a nice feature with the long blonde blonde hair.

44:13Brazil could have been playing anybody tomorrow and he'd have been a descendant somewhere. No, no, no, no, no. I'm a Viking. I'm from Normandy. When Viking came down to Normandy, you have to know your history. But whatever. So I'm going for Norway. And like German, I would say 3-2. Oh, 3-2 as well? For Norway. I think Norway's been a great story and they are a side who haven't been to a World Cup for many, many years and they are on an upward trajectory. There's no doubt about it, but I just think the Brazilians and the Samba... You're a Brazilian descendant? No, I'm not. Believe me. Split panel then.

44:51Looking ahead to that game tomorrow and then on Monday, it's been a dream so far, hasn't it, for the US. they've exceeded all expectations. Will that continue against Belgium or will it end in a nightmare?

45:13We've got NWSL action for you tomorrow. Boston Legacy taking on Bay FC. That game kicks off at noon live on ESPN.

45:39So the US taking on Belgium on Monday. The US slight favourites going into the clash. Here's Tim Ream.

45:51Honestly, I think if you look at it, you look at how are we winning, how have we won the games, right? And they've all been a little bit different. And that gives you, when teams can win in different ways, when teams have to win in different ways, it gives you that mental boost. And that gives you the understanding of, okay, right, sometimes the game's not going to be nice. It's not going to be pretty. You're not going to have everything go your way. But you find ways to finish games out. That's a huge, like I said, a huge mental boost in a tournament like this. Here we go then, Jermaine. US favorites.

46:33You agree? Yeah, absolutely. Absolutely. Even if you realize that they faced Belgium seven times and they only won once. And that was 19.30. Oh, Frank was just a baby? Yeah, it was 3-0. That's why I said they will win this game 3-0. Oh, really? Yeah. They will win it. Where do you stand on this, Frank? I feel that it can be something special for the United States. Of course, you have the Balogoon absence and everything. How would you deal with that? Have you been asked that yet? Ten times. No, Pepe. I think Pepe is going to be naturally put in that position. But really, it's also because I'm not convinced by Belgium.

47:12and the way that they have played, the way they have worked together or not together. And everything with the enthusiasm of the fans, the enthusiasm of the players, United States can achieve something great in that game. So maybe not 3-0, 2-1 for me, but I feel that United States is going to go through. If the US can impose their game on Belgium and they can negate some of their quicker players like Doku and then they have to rely on the older brigade like Lukaku. If he plays, he probably won't, but he's certainly been effective coming off the bench. Kevin De Bruyne, they can't run a game like they used to.

47:52I mean, for 10 years, Kevin De Bruyne was arguably the most creative midfielder in European football. He was incredible and he would get box to box. He can't do that anymore. So if you can pose those questions, a bit like what Mexico were talking about and Mexico City, pose the questions to England. can they handle the conditions and the pace of the game? I think that's what the US should be doing with Belgium. Because if you've watched all the Belgium games in the tournament so far, or most of them, they've all been very pedestrian. Kind of slow paced and Belgium have ground out results. I mean, they should never...

48:27Senegal should be kicking themselves. That game should have been over. Now, you give Belgium credit for digging it out. But there's only so many times you can do that. And I think there's an amazing opportunity here. for these US boys to get to the quarterfinals. Just quickly, Pepe, how do you deal with that? And how do things change with him leading the line? You know, I don't even know if Pochettino's going with him. Okay, no, because I... What do you think? I don't know. My feeling is just saying, like, maybe you put Christian Pulicic in the head, let him a little bit as a felds nine, you know, that he always come.

48:59Because the last game, Pepe was not, for me, not when he had the chance, he was not really in the game. So, yeah, maybe there we can see a surprise. It is of course 4th of July, hence the fireworks going on behind us right now. Beautiful and what a way to tribute a 250 year birthday. Frank, what's on your head? I don't know, maybe a toupee? Wow, I'm glad I've got the biggest head, that makes sense. Don't go close up on that. Jeremy, what happened to your hair? Oh no, that was me. Wow Look at that Oh my god What a treat Well it's very apt That there's three Americans Sat here at the table That's it Yeah it's very true Well not quite You and I Old citizens Plastic Americans And then Frank Yeah But none of it Me and Frank were at the Hudson River This morning Yeah we saw the Patrouille de France Yeah I saw the Red Arrow It was great It was very good Great What were you doing?

49:55Nothing I had a bit of a late night last night I'm not gonna lie I was like that when you sent the text about the red arrow. Yeah, no, that's very true. And I'm blaming the producer, right? Oh, yeah. And he's over there and he's on the case again tonight. Yeah, yeah. Violin is out. You're very easily left. There's no way it's 4.30. It's not 4.30 tomorrow. 4.15. Why is he pretending? But he's not the gang leader in all of this. I'm not doing it. That is ridiculous. Fireworks tonight, Frank, you'll be watching. What? The fireworks. Oh, yes, because I'm going to be working at a sports centre segment.

50:29I'm going to be on the terrace. I'm going to, Sorry guys, I'm going to be late for the dinner because I'm going to work the... You're not invited to. Well, I'm going to be next table. That's it. Whatever you're doing this evening, enjoy it, gentlemen. And thank you very much. We'll be back tomorrow then to look back at Brazil against Norway, Mexico against England. A superb day of World Cup football.

50:58And that's a wrap. Welcome to the latest edition of Extra Time. Frank's first day. You know we do Extra Time every time. I forgot because they didn't do it for almost a week. There was a World Cup. There is a World Cup. We've done it every day. No, but I don't do it. The best one was when Kieran thought they'd finished. He goes, can I go for a pee now? Really? Extra Time. So what happened to him after that? Yeah, there you go. He couldn't go. Frank, of the teams left, aside from Argentina, who has the best chance to beat France?

51:32Well, Morocco, next game, because they did... You're most scared of Morocco? Oh yes, yes, I have lots of respect for the players that I know. Right, so of all the teams left, Morocco are the hardest team. Well, he's a kind of one-game-at-a-time guy, isn't he? Cliché. Well, we don't... No, no, no, no, no, of course not. The question is, who are you... Spain is my... Right, so you could have just said that. Yeah, you could have done, instead of waffling on. So I'm going to go to P. I'm going to go to P. It's called at five days now. So Spain. Okay, Spain. Why? Oh, you want an explanation? Oh, yes.

52:02Okay, because they showed you lately for the past two years that they've been the best team in the world before France, even when they won the European Championship. And you have to have respect for this team. And when you see at front, Oya Zabal, La Miniamal, of course. Very, very good team. Another question for Frank. He can make his lucky stars. It's the 4th of July. The postal service is a bit slow. Because I've ordered that off Amazon. Oh, yes. Frank, who has been... Sorry to keep him quiet. Who has been the better performance, both with their club and country this season, Saliba or Umecano?

52:39Wow, that's a hard question because I highly rate Saliba and I think he's one of the best centre-backs in the world, but Umecano had a hell of a season. And so far with the national team, Umecano has shown to the world that he's a great, great centre-back. So, but I still go for William. William Saliba is a great defender. I love the way he thinks the football. You're really confusing me here. OK, Saliba. You're going for a Pomecano and then you did a complete pivot. No, I didn't do the pivot. I just, at first I said that Saliba, I highly rank him, but... No, that was a Pomecano. OK, Saliba. Right.

53:17Another French question. Frank, if Didier Deschamps wins another World Cup with France, given two titles and three World Cup final appearances, does he move to the top of the list of greatest international managers ever? Well, World Cup have been set since 1930. So, yeah, throughout that, I mean, Brazil, for example, you had great coaches. I don't have the names of all of them, but DJ Deschamps will be the best national team coach ever, you know because he got the European Championship to two to three World Cup finals in three World Cups that's insane and winning two of the three that would be great achievement so he will have to be named the best coach ever What did Dil Bosque win?

54:02Did he not win three? He won two World Cups, did he? No one World Cup and two Euros. I think he won 208. No, Luis Aragonés was there, wasn't he? For one of them. Why spoil the story? I seem to remember. Why spoil the story? Stupid facts. Jermaine, is Argentina weaker than we expected, or is Cape Verde much better than we anticipated? No, I would say Cape Verde just played an amazing game. Yeah. And you have to put that respect, especially for a small country like that, that it shows you and proves you that the smaller country is getting better. The other thing, you know, it's like today, you know, everybody might say, you know, oh, French didn't play well.

54:39Like yesterday, Argentina didn't play well. but you have to respect the opponent and the way they play. Oh, you really respected Paraguay? No, I don't. I don't. In that matter, I don't. It's just that they refuse to play. So it's hard, even if you're the best team in the world, it's hard to compose with somebody who parked the bus and don't just think about destroying the game. So that's it. For Argentina, that was another thing. Cape Verde was exceptional yesterday. Craig, which favourite had the worst game? Argentina against Cape Verde or France against Paraguay? Just what I said. Can we swap that question?

55:09I wasn't listening. Oh, yeah, I know. You're not listening to anything. It's amazing. He's an amazing ventriloquist. I answered that without my lips moving. Oh, come on. Give me... Who was worse? I'm very interested. What? Who was worse? Yeah. Argentina or France? No, the Argentina game was exciting. Not the game, the performance from Argentina compared to that of France.

55:41I don't know. I have to pee. Yes, you've did that joke already. You can't do it twice. It's very long, you know. Do you have an answer or not? Do you really have an answer or do you just want to bother everybody? When's your sports centre hit? Nine. I bet they're really looking forward to you coming on. I'm sure. He has the six-second delay. That's what it is. What? No, no, nothing. Someone says something in your ear and you just say it. Yeah, but I think it was very funny. I'll say France just to move on Jermaine who out of Argentina or France had the worst performance Argentina yeah yeah yeah I think so I think so yeah when you guys are on ESPN ESPN2 do you like seeing yourselves on the TV or is it weird what do you mean we're on TV every day yes but I suppose when you're out and about and you see yourself on TV well last night actually really oh like this oh right You lined it up.

56:40Oh, yeah, yeah. Big star, Craig Merle. Oh, he's watching himself. Oh, my God. He's taking videos of himself. Oh, my God. Big doing yourself. That's not fair. I'll tell you why. Why? I told the wife I was in bed at half night. Oh, well done. I'm in trouble now. Oh, that's all right. As if she's watching this. I was tucked up with a cup of cocoa hot chocolate milk watching the TV. Sure, sure. I know what you've done is expose me. Well, there we go. Yeah. About time. Thank you very much, gentlemen. We will be back tomorrow. Brilliant day of football, of course. Brazil against Norway. Mexico against England.

57:20Be sure to join us. Don't say it.

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From the publisher

The FC crew look back at France's gritty 1-0 win over a determined Paraguay team through a Kylian Mbappé penalty. Plus, Morocco puts on a 2nd half show and knocks out host country Canada with a 3-0 win, we look ahead to the France vs Morocco quarterfinal. And, Mark Ogden & Jon Sutcliffe join the show to preview the Mexico vs England match tomorrow.

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