USMNT Stumble

26 Jun 2026 · 58 min · 20 chapters

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In short

ESPN FC panel recap of the USA’s final World Cup group match (“USMNT Stumble”) vs Turkey (USA lost 3-2 after leading early), plus quick rundown of other Group E/F results and confirmed Round of 32 matchups; ends with Manchester City transfer talk (Elliot Anderson) and guest Ilkay Gündogan.

Guest backgrounds

Alexis Nunes (host). Juergen Klinsmann (former USMNT coach/player). Hercules Gomez (former player/analyst). Jermaine Jones (former USMNT player). Casey Keller (former USMNT goalkeeper). Ilkay Gündogan (Manchester City midfielder).

Key claims

  • Pochettino’s 11 wholesale changes reduced intensity; second-team personnel weren’t asked “like-for-like,” hurting system fit.
  • Christian Pulisic’s return immediately changed the game; USA’s attack depends on him.
  • The USA conceded late and needs to keep momentum/urgency even when group qualification is secured.
  • Germany’s loss to Ecuador shows they need more tempo/intensity; Ecuador’s defense and attackers (Ener Valencia, Plata) made the difference.
  • Netherlands look like serious contenders; Japan is the best “dark horse” pick.

Notable examples

  • USA goals: Austin Trustee (3rd minute), Sebastian Berhalter rocket (about 20 yards), plus a late comeback; Turkey’s stoppage-time winner by Ayan.
  • Pulisic: came on ~57th minute; in ~5 minutes created three goal-scoring opportunities.
  • Berhalter: substitute scored and assisted (including an assist for Matt Turner?—panel says assist on first goal for Trusty).

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

Chapters

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Game Recap: USMNT vs. Turkey

0:49 to 1:41

Overview of the USMNT's final group stage match against Turkey.

“to our studio outdoors here at Los Angeles Stadium.”

Analyzing the Loss

1:41 to 2:18

Discussion on the implications of the loss and game strategy.

“And a stoppage time winner from Ayan in the end gives Turquia some much needed points as they bow out of this World's Cup.”

Key Players and Tactical Decisions

2:18 to 4:39

Analysis of player performances and tactical choices made by the coach.

“I mean, Mauricio's game plan was, you know, to give his second team basically a run to give them a chance to prove themselves.”

Concerns About Squad Depth

4:39 to 6:05

Discussion on the gap between starting players and substitutes.

“And once changes came about, the team battled.”

Intensity and Game Readiness

6:05 to 7:18

Discussion on the importance of player intensity and readiness for matches.

“Because when we talk about this tournament and we look at the likes of France and whatnot, We talked so much about their bench and the guys that they have coming off as well.”

Impact of Christian Pulisic's Return

7:18 to 9:11

Analysis of Christian Pulisic's effect on the game upon his return.

“I mean, I would have preferred to see the first 11 or at least the first 7, 8 plus some of the other guys and then fill in your five subs.”

Giovanni Reyna's Performance

9:11 to 14:06

Evaluation of Gio Reyna's contributions and challenges during the match.

“But the lack of intensity in this game, the opening 45 minutes to the Paraguay game, that's abysmal.”

USMNT Performance Analysis

14:06 to 19:00

The panel discusses the performance of the USMNT, focusing on key players and their impacts.

“And the midfielders, they always, you know, the first look is always, where's Christian?”

World Cup Match Reviews

20:35 to 28:00

Analysis of World Cup match results, including the US, Ecuador, and Germany.

“We're here pitched up just outside of Los Angeles Stadium where moments ago, Turkey actually beat the United States men's national team.”

Assessing the Netherlands' Potential

28:00 to 31:05

Discussion on why the Netherlands could be a strong contender in the tournament.

“They seem to be a group now that sticks together.”
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Round of 32 Matchups Analysis

32:58 to 40:09

In-depth analysis of upcoming matchups in the round of 32, focusing on key teams.

“Back to glorious scenes of the Intuit Dome, the home of the L.A.”

USA's Challenges Against European Teams

40:09 to 41:15

Discussion on the USA's historical struggles against European teams and the upcoming match.

“I think this is something that lends them to be favored and rightfully so in this matchup.”

USA's Challenges Against European Teams

41:17 to 42:21

Discussion on the USA's historical struggles against European teams and the upcoming match.

“The one that makes buying so incredibly easy?”

Manchester City's Summer Spending

43:20 to 45:44

Discussion about Manchester City's transfer activities and player signings.

“because like I said, they have been splashing the cash in this summer transfer window.”

Evaluating USMNT and Turkey Match

45:44 to 48:54

The panel discusses the US Men's National Team's spirit and performance against Turkey.

“Well, they're putting their puzzle together.”

Germany's World Cup Performance Review

48:54 to 51:26

The panel evaluates Germany's performance and expectations in the World Cup.

“And I think that's also something that we will see here in the World Cup even more often.”

USMNT Game Analysis

52:03 to 56:03

The hosts discuss the upcoming match and strategies for the USMNT.

“We are just outside Los Angeles Stadium.”

Analyzing Germany vs. France Matchup

56:03 to 58:06

The hosts discuss the upcoming match between Germany and France, weighing each team's strengths and weaknesses.

“But this might open up spaces, you know, for their opponents.”

Ilkay's Experience and Future Plans

58:06 to 59:00

Ilkay shares his current location and upcoming commitments, highlighting his family responsibilities.

“And on their day, no question, they can beat anybody.”

Ilkay's Experience and Future Plans

59:58 to 1:00:19

Ilkay shares his current location and upcoming commitments, highlighting his family responsibilities.

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Transcript

Automatic transcript. May contain errors.

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0:37just minutes ago the U.S. men's national team wrapped up their final game of the World Cup group stages they were hoping to make it three from three for the first time ever in their history but Turkey fought their way back in what was quite an entertaining affair hello everyone and welcome to our studio outdoors here at Los Angeles Stadium. I'm Alexis Nunes alongside Juergen Klinsmann, Hercules Gomez, and Jermaine Jones. Our Casey Keller will be joining us in just a bit to look back at all we saw from the USA's final group game at this World Cup. Now, as I said, it was jubilation for the USA when things kicked off because with just three minutes on the clock, Austin Trustee scored a goal.

1:21And then we saw a stunner as well from Sebastian Berhalter, a rocket from about 20 yards out. But we expected that even though Mauricio Pochettino made nine changes to his 11 for this one from the Australia game, Turquia was going to be a test and a tough test. They turned out to be as they were able to fight their way back. And a stoppage time winner from Ayan in the end gives Turquia some much needed points as they bow out of this World's Cup. Well, Jurgen, you expected a draw in this one because we did know the test that Turquia was going to provide. But considering that Mauricio Pochettino didn't field his strongest XI, what do we take from this loss?

2:03Well, I mean, a loss is a loss, and you never want to have a loss in a World Cup. But if you lose a game in a World Cup, then in group stage. So because now you advance, and from now on, it's not allowed anymore, or you're out. I mean, Mauricio's game plan was, you know, to give his second team basically a run to give them a chance to prove themselves. And if that was his main goal with this game, then it's fine. It's fine. Obviously, I don't like losing no matter when. For Turkey, it was really important to save their faces. Because obviously, they're deeply disappointed because they lost to Paraguay and Australia.

2:47and they could not have flown home losing again. So for them, it worked out well then to get away with three points with the last game. But from an American's perspective, if it was just meant to be a test and give the guys a run, all right, you know, we'll take it that way. Yeah, I mean, every coach would have done it differently because, you know, we're all different. Everybody has a different opinion. I hope that he saw what he wanted to see. Kirk, what did you make of the game? I've got no issue with the U.S. men's national team losing this game, though you would rather win the game. You had so much goodwill that you earned with the general public, casual Americans who don't really follow the sport, following the U.S.

3:30men's national team. It gets to work up because you're winning. It would have been good to keep that momentum going. But it's the way you lose this game. And he sets up this team in a like-for-like manner. And you're going to probably elaborate more on this than I could ever. but if you have players in the starting 11 that play a certain manner because of the characteristics of each player, and you ask them these things in a certain setup, don't set the second team in the same setup and ask them to do the same thing if they're not the same players. He's got Giovanni Reina playing in a Malik Tillman role, and Malik Tillman's a very different player than Giovanni Reina.

4:03Giovanni Reina won't give you the defensive ability. He gives you the offensive ability, yet he had Weston McKinney ahead of Gio Reina. Don't ask a player like Timothy Weah to play on the left-hand side in that Christian Pulisic role and try to operate like Christian Pulisic. Don't ask Aronson to be Serginio Dest. Don't ask Trusty to be, you know, Anthony Robinson. There was too many asks of this team, of a second team personnel, that don't really have that individually. So I've got no problem with the loss. As Jürgen said, you'd rather not lose. And if you did, group stage. There's circumstances to this.

4:36But it's the way you go about it that I don't think this team was set up in the right way to compete. And once changes came about, the team battled. did what they need to do. They had a very good comeback. You'd like to see them close it out, not give it up in the final 30 seconds. Well, despite all his credentials, JJ was the one that predicted the biggest win for the USA in this one. 3-0, you said, JJ. It was looking like it would have been a draw, which is something that Casey and both Juergen predicted. In the end, it's a loss. What stood out to you?

5:04Ilkay Gundogan:First of all, I would say this. I'm pretty happy that I know that nine guys coming back because that's given me a better feeling going into the knockout stage. You weren't impressed with what you saw? No, no, because this is a tough game, yes, but I think the people who came in, you would definitely see the difference between the guys who come out or were outside. And I think this is clearly we have to talk about that. That's the reality. And we can be happy. We played against a Turkish team where we today, I think, strongly believe if we play with the first 11 who played the first games, I think we will beat Turkey.

5:40Ilkay Gundogan:That's my feeling. but it clearly shows too that if you have two, three injuries and the people who have to step up for them, that it can be a problem. So, and that's my feeling from that game, what I saw today or now with the 3-2 against Turkey, the last, that we, yeah, that the guys who had now the chance to step it up, well, I would say not every one of them stepped it up. Jurgen, how much of a concern is that? Because when we talk about this tournament and we look at the likes of France and whatnot, We talked so much about their bench and the guys that they have coming off as well. Is it a concern for you to, as what JJ pointed out, that the gap between the first 11 and those who are coming up in terms of quality is probably bigger than we thought?

6:23Well, I don't think he's right, JJ, but it's not one game that proves that point. It's good to give them a go. It's good to give them a game. but it's also a bit risky because there's a lot of days in between the games which is unusual for a World Cup usually in a World Cup it's far more compact it's the first time with 48 teams so they stretch the group phases so you have every 6-7 days a game so now for the ones that didn't start today so the first 11, let's put it that way it's quite a stretch to next week's game against Bosnia-Herzegovina most likely so to keep them in a rhythm I think is really important and hopefully it doesn't backfire next week because they are you know they haven't been played for 11-12 days but you see obviously but that's normal you see a difference between the first 11 and the next 3-4 so you have your first 15 and then you have I would say spot 16 to 26 because nowadays you can You can bring 26 players into camp, which I think personally from a coaching perspective, it's too many.

7:38I don't want to have 26 players. 23 is more than plenty. So, yeah, so he gave them the run. I mean, I would have preferred to see the first 11 or at least the first 7, 8 plus some of the other guys and then fill in your five subs. You see enough then. Yeah, now we see, you know, if they can keep that momentum going. The positive one that we saw against, obviously, Paraguay with an outstanding first half. And then the second game against Australia as well that we pick up there again. They set the standards with their first half against Paraguay incredibly high because that was the best 45 minutes that we've seen in many years from a U.S.

8:21team. and they haven't reached that standard in the following two games anymore. It dropped a little bit against Australia, still was fine, but today, obviously, because of all the changes, couldn't reach that level again. So, yeah, I mean, it will be interesting to see how we start us, you know, take the next couple of days. Yeah, I wouldn't take too much stock out of a game where you make 11 wholesale changes because if we go and look at the starting 11 from Paraguay, only Weston McKinney. So it's 10 wholesale changes from that game. He's the only holdover. You change the goalkeeper as well.

8:56So that never really happens in a World Cup. Juergen's right. It's so compact. I would be focused on the drop in intensity in this game. I could understand the like for like. I could understand maybe these players are being asked different things of each other from Mauricio Pochettino. But the lack of intensity in this game, the opening 45 minutes to the Paraguay game, that's abysmal. And that should be alarming for Mauricio Pochettino and his staff. If I'm Marisa Pochettino, I go in there and say, no, no harm in losing this game to a better individual team like Turkey or collective team like Turkey on their day.

9:29But you have to bring the intensity like you. The bar that Jürgen is talking about that they set, that comes off intensity mentality and the talent comes after because they are a talented team. If you didn't have the talent today, you need the intensity. You need to show them that this is your house. This isn't going to be an easy fight. and Turkey did what they wanted to in the first 45 minutes.

9:52Ilkay Gundogan:But this is to the point, and I would say this. For me, as X-Player, you've been there too. I don't believe that a team goes out and don't want to bring the intensity, right? Or have, like, the momentum of going out and saying, I play easy, right? I just think that it is different if you played every game and you come out and you feel like, you know, you started, like you said, 45 minutes real good. Then you have, like, 60 minutes where you played good against Australia, where everybody's at good. And now you come with a complete new group, right? So they have to come in. Of course, it's not easy too for single guys to come in and change it straight away and come and play their thing.

10:27Ilkay Gundogan:But I think still it's an opportunity. If you get the chance to play in the World Cup, every single guy, that has to be for you too. A momentum where I'm, if I'm sitting outside and I'm watching the guys play two games before, and I get the chance now, I will run, I will fight, I will try to make a point. You know, and that was something that I missed today. Do you feel, Jürgen, that that probably intensity, that urgency, that hunger that we saw in the first game probably just wasn't there because the job was already done? Yeah, I mean, that's in the back of their minds. It's also understandable.

11:00But as JJ says rightfully, if you then decide to give those sub players a run, they got to really, I mean, do so much more. They have to be so hungry. They have to be so more on top of everything they're doing because they badly, badly want to get on the team. And I think you couldn't see that in the first 30, 35 minutes. Well, I think one thing that went the USA's way was the fact that Christian Pulisic finally made his return to the pitch. We know he is recovering or has recovered from what was a calf injury that proved to be a lot more serious than we were made to believe. He came on in the second half.

11:39Herc, what did you make of the minutes that we saw? Within five minutes, you realized how important Christian Pulisic is to the program. He was easily the best player on the field. Five minutes. He comes on minute 57. In five minutes, he created three goal-scoring opportunities for himself. He was involved in three goal-scoring opportunities. You could see how he attracts players. You can see the mentality. You can see the drive. You can see the quality. And you could also see how it affects the others. Giovanni Reyna was nonexistent for about 40, 45 minutes. In comes Christian Pulisic. He gets his head up and he sees a run.

12:11He sees somebody who's willing to attack a space. Christian Pulisic is literally raising his hand. Hey, Giovanni Reina, I am here. Give me the ball. And he puts the ball on his chest. He makes those around him better. He's that type of player. And it's going to be imperative that Mariusz Pochettino integrates him back into this program as quickly as possible. Because if the U.S. is to do anything in this World Cup, Christian Pulisic is going to be spearheading the attack. Yeah, JJ, he proved that pretty much this team cannot do without him.

12:38Ilkay Gundogan:Yes, I said that the whole time that Christian is the heart and soul of this group. And I think it's good to see it too. Not only for the team, I think for the people around to see him coming back and having straight away, like Herkula said, straight away that impact, you know, has the chance. And even as I said, like it's this easy and the small stuff, right? Like the extra run into space. Like even when he gets the ball, he's never shying away to take even the dribble against two guys, you know? And that is just when you stand next to him, you're like, oh, he's doing it. Let's go. I'm doing it too.

13:10Ilkay Gundogan:So that's why I always say, like, Christian, if you have the chance to get him on the field, you have to get him on the field. Well, I want to talk a little bit about Gio Reyna now, too, because, of course, he got a huge chance today with the start. We talked so many times on our show about how if it's not Christian Pulisic, who do they look to for that X factor? And we keep repeatedly mentioning Gio Reyna. He did show us in the first game that he's capable of brilliant goals indeed. We did say this was a big night for him, Jürgen. Did he take a step back, though, in not delivering quite as we expected him to?

13:41Well, it was far more difficult for him today because he came on against Paraguay. The game was already over, and he added another fantastic, beautiful goal. It was far easier because the machine was already running in the first game for him. Today, from the beginning on, he had to adjust. he had to kind of start himself to get into that rhythm, to get into that game and make a mark. And you can see, as Hörg said, when Christian Pulisic is not on the field, it's not the same flow of movements, of kind of creativity. And the midfielders, they always, you know, the first look is always, where's Christian?

14:23Where's Christian? And if he's not there, then look to the other ones and try to pass the ball. So it was not easy for Giovanni. Did he make now a step forward or backwards? We'll see that now in the next two, three weeks, hopefully, with the upcoming games. But, yeah, it was probably if we ask him now directly, he probably would say, oh, maybe I could have done a little bit better. Sebastian Berhalter now, Harka. I definitely want to talk about him as well, because there were moments where we were talking off camera and wondering if he should probably be subbed off in this game, the way it was going.

14:56and then he came. He must have heard us. Who are you going to sub him off for? Well, he must have heard the criticism. Who are you going to sub him off for, Alexis? He must have heard the criticism because a 20-yard rocket of a goal. Casey Keller is making his way to join our set right now, but did he take a step forward then? Of course he did. You can't play a game and have an assist and a goal as a substitute player, a guy who's not a nominal starter, and us not think he took a step forward. The bet is made here. This is Marisa Pochettino and his decision of leaving guys like Aiden Morris, leaving guys like Tanner Tessman, leaving nominal defensive midfielders off this roster.

15:33So who are you going to bench him for? Who are you going to take him on the bench? He's got a yellow card, so maybe you can say that's the reason why he's got to go to the bench. You don't want to risk it. Who are you bringing on? Christian Roldan has got an injured quad. He'd be the only other player with a defensive midfield type of profile. This is who you have right now. You're not going to bring Tyler Adams right now. that that bed's been done. Marisa Pochettino said he's not going to risk those guys. So it's, this is who you're riding. And he gives and rewards himself and Marisa Pochettino with an assist on the first goal for trusty.

16:03And then he scores a goal that gets his team back into this game. You could say a lot of different things about Sebastian Berhalter and his place on this team. What you can't deny is the intensity he brings and the productivity under Marisa Pochettino. There are players, no matter what asterisks you'd like to put or circumstance you'd like to put in front of them, they can go, yeah, but what about this goal? What about this assist? What about the way I play and how contagious I am to others? That was Sebastian Berhalter today. JJ, your thoughts on Berhalter?

16:33Ilkay Gundogan:Yeah, if you look at the game today, you would say, like, he scored one, he had an assist. Then you have to say, if you look at that picture, yes, it's good. But there's just moments in the game where I just wish a little bit faster, a little bit thinking of the situation, better reading. But all over, yeah, he played a solid game today. And I think the biggest point is that what Herc said, who you bring in if you take him out. So if you don't have somebody, he is a backup for Adams. And if we see him as the backup, I am completely okay with that. All right. Well, our Casey Keller has finally joined us.

17:09Believe it or not, we were his third choice show to do today. But I'm glad that he has blessed us with his presence. Casey, your thoughts on the game? I mean, great start once again to get the early goal. And then, look, we all expected a response from Turkey. We knew that they weren't going to go out without a fight. They got back into the lead. But then I loved the response from the U.S. in the second half. They dominated play. They got the equalizer. Just so disappointed in conceding that late goal. And just kind of bring the energy down. You know, I think the stadium was buzzing. I think the team was excited.

17:46The players got opportunities to play that maybe we didn't expect such a huge rotation from Pochettino. But they showed some fight. And then to kind of let that all come down with conceding that last goal is the frustrating thing for me. And, of course, I want to talk to you about the man in between the sticks. Of course, we know that Matt Turner was the one that was given the nod in the starting 11. Some of us did say that we would have probably liked to see Matt freeze, just considering he has not been tested at this level. and we expected Turquia to be the ones that would provide that type of test.

18:18But what did you make of Matt Turner's performance? Yeah, I thought Matt played well. I mean, I thought he controlled the box well, came out for crosses well. I mean, I don't really blame him on the goals. I think on the third one, it's one of those ones that if you could come up with that save, fantastic timing. It kind of goes through him, goes through a defender, deflects off, goes into the goal. So, yeah, frustrating for Matt, I'm sure, getting that opportunity, conceding three goals is really frustrating and getting the, you know, and in the end, losing the match. But I'm not putting that on Matt at all.

18:52All right. Well, we're going to find some way to keep Casey here with us. We're going to take a really quick break right now on ESPN FC, but don't go anywhere because when we come back, we will be looking back at all of Thursday's action around the World Cup.

19:17The FIFA World Cup 2026 is back, America. And that means it's time to let the snacking begin. This summer, Lays is inviting everyone to jump on the bandwagon. Oh, you don't know the rules. You don't know any of the players. Doesn't matter. The bandwagon is for everyone. So grab a bag of Lays, gather friends and keep the party going. Lays official sponsor of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Thanks. The world's biggest soccer tournament has arrived, and you can trade the entire tournament on Kalshi. On Kalshi, you can trade every match from the opening stage all the way to the final. Spain is currently trading at 17 % to win it all, meaning a$100 trade pays out over$550 if they win soccer's biggest prize.

20:00On Kalshi, you're trading against peers in a live market, meaning there's no house. And as the probability changes, you can buy in and out of your position. For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code FC to get$10 when you trade 10. K-A-L-S-H-I. Kalshi. Trade on anything. 18 plus only restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Prices, values, and available markets may differ from those mentioned. For more information, see Kalshi.com slash regulatory. Welcome back to ESPN FC. We're here pitched up just outside of Los Angeles Stadium where moments ago, Turkey actually beat the United States men's national team.

20:45Three goals to two in the final group game. But we know that the USA is already through to the round of 32. Someone else who's also through to the round of 32 is Ecuador. They managed to pull off what was a great escape, defeating and upsetting Germany by two goals to one. It was truly a brilliant result for the Conmebol side as they were all but on the brink of elimination. And you can imagine the scenes in Quito, Ecuador, as they find themselves now into the knockout of this World Cup. Let's have a look at the final Group E standings. That pretty much confirms it. Germany and Ivory Coast finish on six points each.

21:24Germany topping the group. And as I said, Ecuador go through now as one of the best third-placed teams. Jürgen, how much do we read into this Germany loss? I mean, yeah. A bit angry. A bit angry. Because you're a perfectionist. No, because I don't like it when you give away things. And I mean, first of all, congratulations to Ecuador. They played a good game. They were the better team. They created the better chances. They absolutely deserve to win this game. But if you're Germany, you are not happy. absolutely not happy because you thought you kind of caught already a good rhythm you had some two nice results obviously Curaçao you cannot really kind of put on on the table but in order to kind of pick up a bit more tempo and and and and intensity and also sending out some signals to all the other big nations this is not enough this is not enough for Germany and I think they're to get some critics from their media at home.

22:30Obviously Manuel Neuer is back in goal. There was a lot of debate. Is he the right choice now? It's absolutely the right choice because he's still the best goalkeeper in Germany by far. But he didn't look good. Both goals did not look good. So there's a lot to talk about in a German camp. Yeah, JJ, because I'm sure Jürgen's right that the criticisms from back home in Germany are going to be pretty loud for this one. I know you were looking at some of the headlines, what are they saying and were you equally as disappointed with what you saw from Germany?

23:01Ilkay Gundogan:Look, I think everything worked like planned, right? They came out, they scored early, they went up 1-0 and Jule Nagelsmann went a completely different way like Pozzicino. He was playing his starters and he's trying to stay in that rhythm. Now if you look back, they lost the game. Ecuador gave them the battle and now back home in Germany, they're putting out. Maybe they were not ready. They were like, don't take the bite and went going to the battle with Ecuador. But yeah, now that's the risk what you can get, right? If you play your starters and then you're losing a game that everybody's going, oh, is it enough?

23:42Ilkay Gundogan:We're talking about we want to win it. Is it now enough to win it? But that's something Germany always has to live. Germany goes always into a tournament as one of their guys, they have to win it. And they have that pressure. Yes, and I'm pretty sure that they will have critics, but they will sit down and go through that and try to fix it to be ready for the knockout stage. And most people know that Germany is most of the time, it's a country who really grows into tournaments. Casey, what did you make of it? Well, I think look at kind of Germany as a whole. I mean, you play the first game against a minnow.

24:15You win it comfortably. Ivory Coast, you need your subs to come on late in the match to get a late winner. and then you play against an Ecuador and you lose. I think there's a lot of work to be done for Germany if they're actually going to be considered a contender and to go long in this tournament. I mean, because they haven't shown so far that they're ready for this. And there's been a lot of criticism and there will be a lot of criticism now. I agree 100 % with JJ that this is a team that can build into the tournament. We know that this is new for everybody. Nobody's ever played a round of 32 before.

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24:55So maybe that's that extra opportunity in a knockout stage to get the momentum, the rhythm that Germany needs to. And maybe this was the wake-up call as well. Oh, so easy here. And look, we can make some subs and get the winner. And oh, now, oh, whoa, wait a minute. We're in a tournament now. We better wake up. And maybe that was the wake-up call. Well, we talk about the criticism that Germany can receive after this lob, but the criticism that Ecuador was receiving her going into this one. We were talking about the Turkish players feeling like they can't go home. I think Ecuador, if they bowed out at this stage, would have felt the same way.

25:31They pull off the great escape. Anything to suggest that they can grow into this tournament? Absolutely. I don't know if you noticed, but all three games that they played, they were the home team. And by Allah, they are one of the home teams in this tournament for sure. And finally, the Ecuador that everybody expected came out versus Germany. Before this tournament started, we all did our predictions. I had Ecuador beating Germany. The only problem is I had them winning the group, not coming in third place. And you could say they played against a minnow in Curaçao, Germany. Guess what? That minnow didn't let Ecuador win.

26:03And Ecuador was unrecognizable. Yeah. They in front of goal, it's the same old thing. Ecuador can't put the ball on the back of the net. They defend very well. They've got a serviceable goalkeeper in Galindes. They've got world-class defenders in Pacho and Incapié. They've got two very good central midfielders in Caicedo and Vite. They have two Speasters in Ener Valencia and in Plata. They have a team that is formidable. And we are finally seeing it today against Germany. I would hate to play this team now. I would hate to have this team in the round of 32. This is a team that's a dark horse for a reason.

26:36They didn't show up at all in the first two games. But this World Cup in the group phase is so forgiving, it's given them a second chance and now now we have a tournament. Mexico and Azteca. Oh that is going to be a juicy one if that's the case. We're going to talk about that later on. Right well that's one group. Let's talk about Group F now because that is where you will find the Netherlands. They took on Tunisia today and got off to what was a perfect start scoring twice in the first seven minutes as they cruised to a 3-1 win. Now that win ensures that the Dutch will top the group. Brian Bobby against once again finding the back of the net and the Orange Army happy in the streets.

27:18Elsewhere, Japan took on Sweden and played out a 1-1 draw in Dallas. Now, that result puts Japan through as second in the group. And it was enough for Graham Potter and Sweden to qualify as one of the best third-place teams. We'll have a look at the group standings coming up right now. That pretty much confirms it. But Japan fans everywhere as well were happy to see them go through. And I think a lot of neutrals too, because we got a lot of love for Japan indeed. There it is, confirmation of the results and of what to expect in the round of 32, because Japan will now face Brazil and the Netherlands facing off against Morocco.

27:54Let's start with the Netherlands, Jorgen. Did they look like contenders now at this World Cup after what we've seen from them in the group stage? Yeah, I think so. I think it's a team that definitely you've got to have on the plate for going far, going maybe to the semifinals, being able to compete with the Spain, France that we all mentioned as the top favorites alongside, obviously, Argentina and Brazil. They seem to be a group now that sticks together. We have a coach, Ronald Koeman, who is very, very experienced. And if they gel, the Dutch, if they gel, because often they had in the past problems on the inner side of things and not towards the opponents, then it's definitely a team that is very dangerous and difficult to beat.

28:42JJ, the Dutch looking dangerous?

28:44Ilkay Gundogan:Yeah, and they have experience of the highest level. They have a lot of players who play at the highest level. I would not be happy to face them because they have individual quality. And then you see, too, they have an idea how they play. When you look at the last couple of games, the goals they scored, they're always similar goals. And that shows you that they play to their strengths. They played to that with, you know, played in how they feel comfortable. And yeah, it's a team I would say like whoever face now with Morocco, it will be an interesting game because both teams have extreme high qualities.

29:22Yeah, well, there, because we're going to talk about some of the matchups in the round of 32 later on. But right now, Casey, what stood out from you from the Netherlands? What do you like that suggests will take them far? Well, I mean, they used to talk about total football, but I think now I think it's total balance, right? They're big, they're fast, they're strong, they're technical. It's not one thing. I think they can play multiple ways now. If they need to play a little bit more direct, they can. If they need to score goals off of set pieces, they can. It's not just about a 15, 20, 30 pass combination to get a goal.

29:57And like JJ said, they've got talent. They're playing at the highest level. They're playing for the Champions League. it's a total team. And yes, I think there's a lot of teams that are not going to want to come against the Dutch. Herc, Japan, Sweden, your pick of who could go further. What stood out to you from both? Japan. Japan's going to be the one that team. They were a dark horse to begin with. They were very unfortunate with injuries before this tournament. They still haven't, I don't think, played to their potential because of it. But if I had to choose between them and the Swedes, I'm definitely taking a more balanced team like Japan.

30:31They're stronger in transition. They're more balanced defensively. The Swedish team is very top-heavy, very dependent on their forwards. If I had to pick between the two, I'm taking Japan to go further. But it's all going to be about the matchup. You just mentioned a previous matchup, the Netherlands versus Morocco. You're killing off a tournament favorite there. So it's all about the matchup. All about the matchup. Well, that was the perfect segue into our next break, Herc, because do not go anywhere. because when we come back on ESPN FC, I just teased some enticing fixtures in the round of 32.

31:06We'll talk all about the much-watched ones next.

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33:21Here are the confirmed round of 32 matchups that we do know. South Africa against Canada, Brazil, Japan, Netherlands, Morocco, and the USA against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Right, Jürgen, the most intriguing one to you. And why is it Netherlands, Morocco? Well, Brazil, Japan is also a good one. But I mean, obviously, Netherlands, Morocco, it's two teams. They have high quality. They have difference makers in their teams. And lots of emotions, especially from the Moroccan side. I mean, we saw that four years ago in Qatar. They played incredibly, highly emotional, always on the edge. They're very, very aggressive.

34:07And I can see there that they are going to teams at each other. that, you know, yeah, it will be very heated. It will be very heated. I think there will be some yellow cards and if not, a couple of red cards. Two amazing teams, Herc. Two amazing fan bases that we wish could go a lot more deeper into the tournament than just the round of 32. But this is probably the pick of the round of 32. Yeah, in Monterrey, Mexico. I'd also pick Brazil, Japan, and I'll tell you that in a second. But you speak about the emotion, Juergen. I can't think about a more emotional game for the Moroccan players. a lot of them with Dutch heritage, a lot of them play in the Eredivisie and were developed within that system.

34:46This is a highly emotional game, and you're going to get this in a round of 32. It should be a quarterfinal. That's how good this matchup is. You've got two great fan bases, two great football teams at the moment, one traditional power, one team that has turned the world upside down since Qatar at all levels. The men's and women's side from the U23s all the way down, they have been consistently on the winning end. this is a very good matchup. And the second one that I would say is like that is Brazil-Japan. Culturally, they're very linked and intertwined. That's going to be a good game as well in Texas, I believe.

35:17Did you know highest population of Japanese outside of Japan? In Brazil. What does this girl not know? A lot. Jermaine, of course, for you, it's almost a sin that we're going to have to say goodbye to either the Netherlands or Morocco in the round of 32.

35:33Ilkay Gundogan:Yeah, it's sad because so far, I think you can see that both teams playing excited football. But, yeah, I would say, like, especially Morocco, if you look over the last couple of years, they've grown into the whole thing, right? And everybody's excited to see them. And I think everybody who's facing them, too, is like, oh, they're really dangerous. We have to be careful. So even a Dutch team, which is really full with a lot of stars, a lot of good players, I think they're going, too, in that game and having the mindset of, like, we have to be careful. So that's good individual players. And Jürgen had a point.

36:09Ilkay Gundogan:They know how to play African teams special. They know how to play dirty. They know how to get on step, on your toes. And with an individual quality, extremely good. So, and that's something, you know, when they're facing now, the Dutch or the Nielerlander, then we will see that, yeah, I think for both sides, a really, really good game. Casey, is this your pick too? Well, of course. But, I mean, those are the two big matchups. but let's take it back to the U.S. Once again today, losing to European opposition. They've not beat a European team since 2021. So Bosnia-Herzegovina, we know is a formidable side.

36:54They're big, they're strong, they're experienced. They know how to do the dirty work. They know how to make things frustrating. And, you know, coming today, the frustration with conceding the late goal. And I think that's put just that little bit more emphasis that, you know, this isn't just going to be straightforward. We were talking about it earlier about, oh, round of 16, quarterfinal. Oh, wait a minute here. Let's back up a little bit. Juergen made that point that we just need to let's slow down a little bit and just say, you know, we've struggled against European opposition. and this is a team that you do not overlook.

37:33Does that concern you, Juergen? Once again, the USA is struggling against European opposition, and that's exactly what awaits them in the first knockout? Yeah, absolutely. I mean, it is tricky. It is tricky, and so the last couple of years, you know, we've done poorly against European opposition, and you cannot plan ahead at all now. You cannot think, you know, what comes after Bosnia-Herzegovina. You've got to really now take it. And Maurizio and his staff will do that. They will take apart this team. They will see their strengths and weaknesses. They will tell the players everything they see.

38:09And they will be perfectly prepared for that match. But that doesn't mean that once the game is then going, that they might lose here and there their nerves because the Bosnian players, they might do something unexpected. I mean, at that level, the teams know each other so well, so detailed. I mean, they will definitely double Christian Pulisic. As soon as he touches the ball, there will be two Bosnian players on him, which means that there's an opening for another player from the U.S., if you find them right away. But it is very, very tricky. And to say now who's the favorite is really difficult in these circumstances.

38:48Exactly what we talked about, Brazil, Japan. Obviously, we all love Brazil and their history, and we know how good their players are. but whoever followed global football over the last 20-25 years, what happened in Japan is actually a fairy tale. The way they educated their younger kids from the age of 4, 6, 8 years on in a technical way, they learned basically to solve all the issues on the field through technical play, through passing on the ground because they're not the tallest. So they figured out, so we're not winning those battles in the air. But we can play out of the bag, between the lines.

39:28We are constantly on the move. And it will be interesting to see how Brazil deals with that. Because in the last World Cups or bigger competitions, Japan was always there to create big upsets. Just a quick one to South Africa-Canada. Yeah, South Africa-Canada is going to be a great matchup for the Canadian men's national team. They lucked out because it could have been South Korea in Los Angeles. Massive South Korean population here in L.A. They would have been the visiting team. Now they're going to have a spirited team in South Africa who grew into this tournament, but they are still going to be favored there.

40:00If I may really quickly, Bosnia and the United States men's national team, styles make fights. This is a great stylistic fight for the U.S. men's national team. I think this is something that lends them to be favored and rightfully so in this matchup. And if they can take anything away from how the Canadian men's national team played against Bosnia, if you are intense, if you are explosive, if you press them, they don't have the ability to run beyond you. You can really hurt them. Right. Well, it's that time of the show once again where we have to say thank you and goodbye to our Hercules Gomez.

40:31Herc, thank you so much as always. This is your favorite moment. No, I said it's just once again the moment. We're actually sad, but we're kind of excited because if you look over at our Ahora Nunca Des, that's where Herc's going, but he's swapping out with none other than Ilkay Gundogan, who will be joining us over here after the break. Make sure to stay exactly where you are. because when we come back, Manchester City are splashing some cash in the summer transfer window. We'll talk about their newest edition on the flip side.

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42:25Shopify.com slash network. I like things my way. My coffee, my schedule, and my treatment. So I talked to my doctor about self-injecting with the Vivgard Hytrulo Pre-Filled Syringe, which contains F-Gartigamide Alpha and Hyaluronidase QVFC. It's injected under your skin subcutaneously. It means I can inject in my space on my time. It's my treatment, my way. Visit VivGuardMyWay.com. That's V-Y-V-G-A-R-T MyWay.com. And talk to your doctor about VivGuard Hattrulo. Brought to you by Argenics. Welcome back to ESPN FC. Remember, NWSL is on a bit of a break now, but don't you worry because he'll be back on July 5th, noon Eastern time for this kickoff, Boston Legacy Bay FC on ESPN.

43:18Right, let's talk about Manchester City because like I said, they have been splashing the cash in this summer transfer window. City have agreed a£116 million deal for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. If you ask anyone around the Premier League, you know that this is a midfielder that is highly sought after. Now, the fee would be a club record for City, but word is if you add the bonuses, it will go up to a lot more, and that would be a record fee for a British player. Right, let's talk about Manchester City, shall we? Because we now have Ilkay Gundogan joining us. A little bit of a German invasion here on our set, but we're loving it.

43:58Guten Nacht. Guten Tag. I think that's what Jürgen taught me. All right, let's talk about Manchester City. My poor Germans are at their fault. Let's talk about Manchester City. Elliot Anderson, I mean, this is a player that has excited so many, Ilkay. Do you think he'll make a perfect addition to Manchester City? I think so. I think he has proven that, you know, especially last season with Nottingham. He played an incredible season. He had some outstanding performances also against City. And I think he had a quite impressive development over the years. And I'm quite sure that he will make a great addition to the City slot.

44:34What do you think, JJ?

44:36Ilkay Gundogan:Yeah, you know, it's always like we live in a time now where you listen to the numbers and you go first of all like, woof. But I think if you watch him play, yeah, he's a good player. and I think he will be an extra plus for Man City. Ilkay, do you feel like he's the big name that the citizens needed? Because, of course, there's so much concern about how Manchester City will be, what the identity will be after Pep Guardiola. I wouldn't say he's the big name. I mean, obviously, he's someone that everyone knows. But I don't think that they are signing him as a superstar. They are signing him as a team player.

45:09And he's expensive, yes. But this is the Premier League, you know, this is where the best play. So it's quite normal now. I mean these sums are still maybe, you know, like huge or sound huge. But it's now at the end the market, isn't it? So people pay it. And they have to pay, you know, for certain quality. And I'm quite sure that the people in Manchester will be very happy. Because when you watch them play, you feel like, you know, that is someone that sacrifices everything for the team. And that's what you want to have as a teammate. Yeah, he's a true team player, Jürgen, and this is what Manchester City probably need as well now that they've said goodbye to Pep Guardiola, who is such a glue there.

45:52Well, they're putting their puzzle together. Like every team is now in the summer break watching all the World Cup games. They're looking for obviously young talent as well. And this kid now fits their plans. It fits the puzzle. It's crazy to see the amount of money that needs to be spent. it's not his fault needs to be spent to get a really really good player from one Premier League team to another Premier League team it's pretty much out of control I think if Ilkay would now move from Man City to Arsenal it would be 250 million probably or 300 but it's not his fault it's the market that does that so I'm curious to see the kid obviously play then for Man City but a lot of crazy stories we will see the next few weeks during the World Cup and especially right after the World Cup.

46:41Yeah, especially after the World Cup. Indeed, the summer transfer window is very much open. Ilkay, let's talk about the game that you just saw because we know you were coming over to hang out with us, but we managed to see you on the screen looking comfortable taking in the game. What did you make of it and the results as well? I was a bit unsure, to be honest, what to expect because obviously the two teams, they didn't play for anything anymore. The U.S. already progressed as the leaders, you know, and Turkey unfortunately got knocked out. So then sometimes, you know how it is, you don't know what to make out of it.

47:16But as a spectator, I think it was a very interesting game. We saw five goals, a very late winner, and obviously my Turkish blood, you know, also got out happy out of the stadium. A bit disappointing, obviously, for the whole nation of Turkey, to get knocked out so early in that tournament because there was a lot of excitement around it in the country. But at least we got a win at the end and got three points and a quite good performance as well. Quite a good performance indeed, exactly. This is, I think, the Turkey that everyone was expecting, at least the battling and whatnot. What did you make of the US men's national team, of course, hosting the World Cup here at home?

48:02Granted, this was a very changed 11 from Mauricio Pochettino's strongest, But at least what did you make of the spirit and the fight that they showed? Yeah, what I like the most about the US team is that you really can feel the spirit from the stance. I was just watching them, you know, when they scored, the players, the way they celebrated with each other, but then also with the players on the bench, you know, and all the stuff around. So in such a short amount of time, you know, having that tournament, having to compete, you know, on the highest level in just a period of days. I feel like that spirit is really needed, you know, and can beat also quality at the end of the day because we have seen it also in the past, also on club level, you know, so many teams with so many great players.

48:46But if you are not a team, there will be a team that is better than yours, maybe not with the individual quality, but as a team better, and they will beat you. And I think that's also something that we will see here in the World Cup even more often. and that makes it quite exciting, I think. Well, let's talk about Germany now, too, because, of course, Germany is suffering a loss today. Some would say a bit of a surprise upset against Ecuador, even though we know that Ecuador is a formidable opponent. They probably wanted it more. They were desperate, definitely, to get something to qualify for the round of 32.

49:19How did you feel about what you saw from Germany? Disappointed? Yeah, I have to admit I didn't see all 90 minutes because I was on the plane. I was trying to watch. I was actually flying over here. So I saw a little bit. But, you know, it's really tough to play against South American sides, I feel like, because they have that physicality, but then also the technical, you know, like abilities to hurt you, you know. And they needed that win much more than Germany. But I'm sure, and you could see that also on the first 11, you know, that Julian Nagelsmann sent out, that they were definitely trying to win it.

50:00So this is an indicator maybe also for him that there are things they have to improve, especially now going to the lockout stages, which I'm sure they will learn from. And yeah, hopefully they're going to make it better. I'm quite sure they will make it better. But this might be a moment where they will be able to say also at one point, OK, this made us really learn and improve also in terms of what we have to improve. Well, JJ was already looking at some of the headlines back home, but how far quickly do you think Germany can get in this World Cup? Because I know the expectations are high. Yeah, I mean, we are a football country at the end of the day, you know, like we love football, we have amazing education, you know, amazing facilities, obviously.

50:48So the expectations, they are always high, even though maybe especially ahead of that World Cup, of this World Cup, because of the past, maybe we don't admit really that we have high expectations. We are a little bit careful, you know, in terms of what we are saying. But obviously, again, we love football, you know, in Germany. And we are always ambitious. And when we play, we are playing to win. And that's something that maybe makes us dangerous as well at the end of the day. But of course, we know that we have to compete, you know, with the best. and we have to show proper performances to compete and to win.

51:26Because it's tough. The games now, they are showing it, that it's tough to beat every opponent. All right, Ilka Gundogan, thank you so much for hanging out with us right here. Vielen Dank. Danke schön. Everything, of course. Thanks, of course, to Casey, JJ and Jürgen Klinsmann. Thanks to everyone for watching us here. We have had a blast hanging out at Los Angeles Stadium. Remember, you can find more ESPN FC on our networks. We're on twice a day during the World Cup. We will see you in the morning.

52:02Hello, everyone, and welcome into Extra Time right here. We are just outside Los Angeles Stadium. Alexis Newn is here alongside Juergen Klinsmann, Ilkay Gundogan, Jermaine Jones, and Casey Keller. Let's get straight into the questions. First one, will this be an easy match for the U.S. men's national team players to move on from? Because the focus will automatically switch to Bosnia and Herzegovina immediately after the match. Jürgen, nothing to think about? Just move straight on? Absolutely, just move straight on, especially after all these changes today. And study the opponent as detailed as you can, which they will do, and the coaching staff will prepare them.

52:42But you've got to move on right away now. It's only about the next game. As a player, Ilkay, is that what you do? Just forget a loss like this, knowing that you've already qualified? Yeah, for sure. I mean, also, I can't say anything different than the coach. That's something that you learn as a player. We all know who the boss is. Never go against the boss. But yeah, of course. I mean, they will probably have a few points that they can learn from. But it can only be good, you know, for the next game. So I'll focus on the next one. Next question now for Casey. Casey, do you think Matt Fries should have started?

53:14I think there's a conversation about that. We knew that Matt was a little bit untested coming into the tournament. We knew that this match against Turkey was going to be probably the most difficult match. At least we thought that before the tournament started. And that's what we got. I would have loved to have seen how he would have performed under that little bit more pressure. I thought Turner played fine. I mean, I don't blame him for any of the goals. But yeah, I would have loved to have seen Friis have that little extra against a European opposition, which we know the U.S. has struggled against European opposition.

53:55JJ, would you like to have seen him start as well?

53:58Ilkay Gundogan:You know, for me, I think Casey is the right person to talk about it because he's a goalkeeper. But there has been a lot of question about the U.S. goalkeeper. To see him probably test at this level, which we knew that Turkey was going to provide more of a test. I think if you look at the way that you say he had not so much to do in the first games, then you maybe give him another game so he can play. But Turner came in and I don't think he did something wrong. So, yeah, now I think let's focus on the next game. All right, we'll leave it at that. Next question. Who do you see winning Netherlands-Morocco?

54:32Ilkay, this is going to be a really good one. How do you see this one going? Yeah, that's one that we can look forward to, to be honest. I was not surprised, but maybe a bit more surprised than I expected in the beginning when I saw Morocco playing, especially that first half against Brazil. I think it was an outstanding performance and they scored also, you know, they were in front and were ahead against a really strong side. So I'm really looking forward to what Morocco is capable of. And I think this one is going to be also a great test for them. Because the Netherlands, they're a team full of stars, full of great players.

55:14And yeah, that's one that we can be really excited about. Jurgen, how do you see this one going? I see that going to a penalty shootout. Oh, and then who gets the better one? We'll see. I was waiting for the German to pick the Dutch and there was no chance. There was no chance about it. It's about as much chance as me picking Mexico. I know. You didn't want to. You didn't want to.

55:38Ilkay Gundogan:It's not happening. JJ? Yeah, it's a tough one. I think it will be a good game to watch. But I think at the end, there will be Morocco who beats the Netherlands. All right. Wow. Another one. Of course, he's not picking the Netherlands. No, he's not picking the Netherlands. Next question now. Quickly, after today, do you really think Germany can go past the quarterfinals? Ooh. that's a big rough and that's because they're saying that they would get potentially as Sinsans face France in the round of 60 that's why we got that question right so are they able to beat France actually on a good day yes but obviously knowing that France would be the favourites we still have to see I think what France is capable of I still have the feeling that there's more to come from them you know because they are so good individually they can be always dangerous, you know, especially up front.

56:37But this might open up spaces, you know, for their opponents. So that would be an interesting one, obviously. But as we learn in Germany, we take it step by step. So we have, first of all, another game to play. And then we think about the next. That's something Jürgen reminds us all the time. Because we say, Jürgen, who do you think is going to win next year? And he's like, stop it. One match after another. JJ, what do you think? Germany, France?

57:04Ilkay Gundogan:Yeah, it's a, it's an, I would say it's a, it's a, both teams have amazing players in their, in their, in their teams. And, you know, and if you look at it, Germany, yes, you look at it, it's a young team. They're still, you don't know what you get, you know, in France, you saw now Mbappe, Olysee, showed up. But still there, you don't know exactly what you get. So I think it would be an open game. And I think when you watch this game, I would say like, especially in a knockout game, it's a 50-50 game. It's really open to see who wins that. I think it'd be great when France says, you know what, look, we have Kylian Mbappe.

57:40And Germany says, you know what, we have Denis Undov. Love that. Casey, what do you think? I think the 50-50 is a little generous. I think it's about 75-25 France. I mean, they are obviously one of the favorites for a reason. And I think if France continue to improve in this tournament, you could see them going all the way. Look, I think, yeah, I agree. Germany is extremely talented. And on their day, no question, they can beat anybody. But there's a reason why France are the favorite. Jürgen, do I even try?

58:17I know you're concentrated just on the next match. But if Germany were to face France, France favorites in that one? I mean, once you go step by step in a tournament, it doesn't really matter who you hit, at what time. You got to go through it, you know. And even if the other team is the favorite in that moment and France right now would be the favorite in that moment. If you represent a football nation like Germany, you go in there to beat them. And you go in there with the confidence that you have in yourself. you challenge them you respect them obviously with all the qualities that they have and then you take the next one as we should alright well that's it for our extra time Ilkay thank you so much for hanging out with us and what's next for you where are you going next I'm in LA for a few days for a couple of days oh I mean great place to be which is the next game you'll check out I'm not too sure yet because at one point I have to go back to my kids who are not here with me so let's see what my wife allows me exactly Exactly.

59:19Smart man right there. Our responsibilities. All right. Well, that's going to do it for us here just outside the L.A. stadium. It's been a big night as well as the USA go down to Turkey in their last game. But either way, we have had a brilliant time and we will continue to look back at all the action from this summer's World Cup on ESPN FC. Remember, we are available daily. You can catch it on ESPN+.

59:55This episode is brought to you by Google Chrome. You think you know a browser, but Gemini and Chrome, that's new. It can help you with practically anything on the web, like restoring a vintage motorcycle from a 50-page restoration block, or finally break down that long article you've had open for weeks. Gemini and Chrome is here for it. Ready to make anything online make sense? There's no place like Chrome. Check responses set up required. Compatibility and availability varies 18+. Let's do it.

From the publisher

ESPN FC is live from Inglewood right after the United States drew in heartbreaking fashion to Türkiye. Did the US take their foot off the gas? Next, we react to all the other matches of the day before looking ahead to the confirmed Round of 32 matches. Later, Ilkay Gundogan joins the shot to react to Manchester City's record deal for Elliot Anderson.

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