In short
ESPN FC World Cup Morning Edition previews USA vs Australia (Group D, matchday two), focusing on the physical, defensive Socceroos and the “bulletin board” media narrative; also includes brief fan-travel coverage (Scotland in Boston) and other Group-stage updates/predictions.
Guests/backgrounds
Kay Marie; Ali Krieger (U.S. Women’s National Team legend, World Cup winner); Hercules Gomez (former U.S. player/analyst); Ali Moreno (co-host); Joey Lynch (ESPN Australia reporter in Seattle); plus guest appearances/mentions: Jurgen Klinsmann (quotes), Mauricio Pochettino (comments on physicality), Tony Popovich (Socceroos coach).
Key claims
Australia uses disrespect as motivation; they’re organized, physical, and will sit deep/low block then counter. USA’s Christian Pulisic is pivotal if fit; Tyler Adams’ belief he’ll play is a key sign. US should exploit 1v1s and spaces in/around the box.
Notable examples
Australia’s Turkey win after being labeled a “layup”; prior US-Australia friendly (Oct, 2-1 US) turning physical; Pulisic injury in that match; Australia’s counter threats (Irancunda, Metcalf, Jordan Bos). Prediction: Joey Lynch leans 1-1.
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOTeam Dynamics and Player Insights
0:40 to 1:40
Discussion on the mindset and strategies of the US and Australian players.
“Good morning and welcome to another edition of our World Cup Morning Edition ESPN FC.”
Australian Response to Media Perception
1:40 to 3:00
Exploring how Australian players use media criticism as motivation.
“Here's Serginio Dest and Weston McKennie.”
Psychological Edge and Team Identity
3:00 to 5:30
Analyzing Australia's underdog mentality and its impact on performance.
“What did the US media do that has upset the Aussies so much?”
Physicality and Match Expectation
5:30 to 7:40
Insights into the physical style of play and expectations for the match.
“And that's just the reality of the matter.”
Christian Pulisic's Injury Status
7:40 to 9:40
Discussion on Christian Pulisic's injury and its significance for the team.
“making themselves a story, giving this team something to rally behind.”
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
9:40 to 14:01
Summarizing the key takeaways and predictions for the upcoming match.
“They're not worried about all the noise.”
Analyzing Christian Pulisic's Impact
14:01 to 18:00
Exploring the importance of Christian Pulisic for the USMNT against Australia.
“Christian Pulisic can be the key to opening them up.”
Game Predictions and Strategies
18:00 to 19:25
Discussing game strategies and predictions for the US vs Australia match.
“Thumbtack knows homes, so you don't have to.”
Scotland Fans in Boston
19:34 to 28:00
Adrian Healy shares insights on the Scottish fans and their cultural impact in Boston.
“A reminder that they have never made it past the group stage in the World Cup.”
Reflections on Brazil's Game and Mexico's Victory
28:00 to 29:16
Discussion about Brazil's upcoming match and Mexico's recent success in the tournament.
“We look forward to hearing a lot more from you on your travels.”
Show all 22 chapters
Canada's Historic World Cup Win
29:30 to 30:35
Analysis of Canada's significant victory over Qatar and implications for their future.
“You know that purple ShopPay button you see at checkout?”
Canada's Historic World Cup Win
30:39 to 34:32
Analysis of Canada's significant victory over Qatar and implications for their future.
“Mexico became the first team to book their place in the round of 32 at the World Cup after defeating South Korea 1-0 at Estadio Guadalajara.”
Jesse Marsch's Coaching Style
34:32 to 35:36
Discussion on Jesse Marsch's approach to coaching and its impact on the team.
“Apparently, unless you're Jesse Marsh and you always find a reason to get mad about something, which is something that I think he thrives.”
Previewing Upcoming Matches
35:36 to 36:37
Insights into upcoming games, focusing on Almiria against Malaga and tactics discussions.
“They obviously have built off of that first performance and then continued that confidence, that motivation to score a lot of goals.”
USMNT Performance Analysis
37:08 to 42:02
In-depth analysis of the USMNT's performance against Paraguay and what to expect against Australia.
“That's like asking if all soccer players are the same.”
Analyzing Australia's Defensive Strategy
42:02 to 42:24
Learn how the U.S. can exploit Australia's low block defense.
“And if they are gonna do this low block, if they are going to be in the box, you have to take advantage of these spaces.”
The Quintessential American Burger
42:53 to 44:09
Explore the components and preparation of a classic American cheeseburger.
“This is a very interesting one and it is the USA, this time up against Australia, familiar frenemy.”
Comparing American and Australian Cuisine
44:10 to 45:28
Discussion on the culinary competition between U.S. and Australian dishes.
“And also we've got to think about Pavlova, who this dish was made for.”
The Culinary Debate Heats Up
45:29 to 46:47
Tensions rise as opinions clash over food choices representing the teams.
“I'm just giving people more to talk about.”
Post-Match Coverage Plans
46:48 to 47:10
Hosts discuss their predictions and coverage plans following the game.
“game, ESPN2 has you covered right at the final whistle of that U.S.-Australia game.”
Game Predictions for Today's Matches
47:35 to 49:51
The hosts share their predictions for various international football matches.
“And here's a look at what we've got coming up today.”
Tommy Tuchel's First Pitch and Predictions
49:52 to 50:58
A lighthearted discussion about Tommy Tuchel's first pitch and match predictions.
“So, England, as you know, here in the U.S., Thomas Tuchel smiling.”
Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:01That's the sound of zero sugar, 200 milligrams of caffeine, and the power to burn body fat. Storm, energy for life. Storm Energy Blend helps boost metabolism, which in combination with exercise and a healthy diet helps burn fat. This product alone does not produce weight loss. Individual results may vary. Coming up, it's match day two for the USA. And this time, it promises to be a physical affair. Australia, they know how to fight. They go in there for real battle. Can the Stars and Stripes get the best of the Socceroos? Plus, is it New England or New Scotland? as the Tartan Army continues their American invasion.
0:40A tasty edition awaits on ESPN FC next.
0:52Good morning and welcome to another edition of our World Cup Morning Edition ESPN FC. Kay Marie, Ali Krieger, and today Ali Moreno has decided to grace us with his presence once again. Let me just tell you, it's nicer in the morning. We've got Hercules Gomez here. The late shows can take you to a very dark place, let me just say. I'm glad to be back. We are happy to have you back as well, Ali. Happy to have you as well, Hercules Gomez. Yeah, I'm in a zone of positivity here, so I feel good this morning. Keep that up. Keep that up. He needs that because the US are back in action today as we take a look at what's going on in Group D.
1:31We have a showdown between USA and Australia and there has been some beef between the two teams ahead of the match. Let's hear from some of the US players though. Here's Serginio Dest and Weston McKennie. We all know that Australia is a difficult opponent, you know, and obviously on paper, you know, you don't think they will win against anyone, but I think they're a team you shouldn't underestimate. Australia is kind of using bulletin board material from the media to play with the chip on their shoulder. What makes them dangerous, though, on the pitch? I mean, they have size. That's for one. Balls in the box won't be easy to get on long balls.
2:10They have fast players up top. They can get in behind and be dangerous like that as well. But I think, you know, they're a team that was similar to us as well in a way that, you know, we play with the chip on our shoulder also. And we kind of have that mindset and we're together as a team and, you know, we fight for each other and we run endlessly and tirelessly. And, yeah, I think they're very similar in that way. So I think it's just will be a great, great game and a great battle. Paper in Australia saying make America grown again. Yes, there are some media outlets that have had a few things to say about the Australians.
2:51But let's bring in our ESPN Australia reporter, Joey Lynch, in Seattle for us. Joey, thanks so much, first of all, for getting up so early to join us on the show. But what happened? What did the US media do that has upset the Aussies so much? I think the comments originate effectively from after when the draw first came out and some reactions from the punditry class surrounding. I think a comment with particular staying power has been that Australia represented a layup for the United States. And then that this was a somewhat easy draw for the United States coming up against Australia. and it sort of snowballed from there really given that the Australian sporting psyche is built around punching above one's weight.
3:39It's got a very small population compared to the rest of the world, certainly given the size of the country and sporting success is such a core part of its identity that it loves to assume the underdog role, seize on perceived disrespect and then prove the doubters wrong. So Australia must be feeling pretty confident going into this one after the match they won performance from them and the fact that they went into that as underdogs and came out as winners. It certainly has given a significant boost in confidence because it sort of served as, I guess, a stress test, proof that this system that Tony Popovich has instilled, since he's come over as Soccer Roos coach following the resignation of Graham Arlund in 2024, but particularly during the year following qualification where he was able to experiment, blood new players, bring them in.
4:33That's a rare luxury for Australian coaches. They haven't done that in over a decade, qualified automatically. The Socceroos have had that chance to experiment and build up for World Cup. Normally, they've been going through playoffs. So this was a real proof of concept match against Turkey and that they were able to get the job done. Certainly has instilled the squad with a lot of belief and trust within the system and each other. It's only going to boost you more, isn't it, Ali, to hear this trash tar coming from certain media outlets. Well, yes, but truth be told, everybody else in this group, when they look at each other and they start sizing each other up, they will look at Australia and say, that's a game that we have to win.
5:14Now, I know Australians are not going to feel all that great about that, but that's the reality. When you look at the group and Paraguay is thinking, okay, which game do we have to win? We have to beat Australia. and then let's get what we can get against Turkey and let's get what we can get against the United States. And that's just the reality of the matter. Now, if Australia wants to hang on to this and make it a rallying point, more power to them. More power to them. But more to the point, I would actually, if I were running this team, I would actually run the interview that we just had there with Sergino Des, in which he just said, on paper, Australia shouldn't beat anybody.
5:49He just said it, and this is a player. This is not the media. It's a player who you're about to play against. That's the video that I would run. Not whatever somebody said at some point following the draw. But if this is the rallying point, if this is where you think you're going to find some power, if this gets the team together, if this rallies the country together, and you can generate momentum for that, go on, Australia. You believe your own truth. Yeah, but I think that you shouldn't even be in the tournament if you don't think you're going to beat every team that you can. And I think that no matter what rank that the U.S.
6:22men's national team is versus Australia, everybody wants to beat the U.S. no matter what, because of the scale and because of the nation and everyone standing behind it. So they want to prove themselves in that way as well. And I think, yeah, they match the physicality. They match the same type of game that the U.S. is going to bring. And so, of course, they think that they belong there and that they can win. What's your fear for the U.S. against this Australian side, Herc? The fear is that they can lose because of how organized, how defensive, how structured, how physical Australia can be and the intangibles that come with it, the size, the strength, the speed, their ability to get in behind.
7:00But Australia sees the draw, and Tony Popovich celebrates, because there isn't one team that doesn't see the host nation like the U.S. and say, yes, I will take that pot. And in this group, there isn't one team that doesn't think they can be top two, let alone win the group. That's just the nature of this group. That said, if you're a pundit now, you're not the story. and there's not been one single player that I've seen from the U.S. Men's National Team that has given this team the bulletin more material to really galvanize the nation. And I'll put names to it. A Landon Donovan, a Tim Howard, a Mike Grella, who's never represented the U.S.
7:39Men's National Team. They are inserting themselves, Alexi Loss, into this conversation, making themselves a story, giving this team something to rally behind. I saw last year, and that was the coach, John Herdman, excuse me, last World Cup. John Herdman, before the Croatia game, he said, we are going to F Croatia. Oh, there was fornication going on. It just wasn't to Croatia's expense. You never give the opponent bulletin board material. These players weren't doing it. So to me, it's almost crazy in saying that Australia as a team has rallied around this from people who aren't even anywhere near the team or the situation.
8:16They're a dangerous team who should be respected. The U.S. is in no position to think they are better than anybody. The fact that we sit here, we have a daily show, we'll come up with talking points, things will happen in front of us, and we'll have an opinion on it. So I have no issue whatsoever that Australia thinks that this is important enough for them to create some sort of momentum. You have to manufacture your own truth. And this is what has happened here with Australia. They have created in their mind and manufactured this whole story that somehow the United States and everybody else overlooked them because that's where they feel most comfortable.
8:55Joey just said as much. We want to be the underdogs. Make us the underdog, please. And here we go. We're the underdog. Let's go take over the world. The good thing is that they have the result against Turkey to back this sort of theory up and to say we were overlooked. We won this thing. And now we have a chance to again upset the United States. I think it's funny because as players, when you're in this environment, you're at a World Cup, you're actually not paying attention to any of the noise. So people can say whatever they want to say. And, of course, when you're doing media after training, you're doing media after games, you're going to say what you are going to say because you're that confident and you want your team to believe that you're also bought into what the task is at hand and what the coach is presenting.
9:38But ultimately, the players are just focused on the game in the next match. They're not worried about all the noise. And I can tell you that that's how we were so successful, the U.S. Women's National Team, in both of the championships that we won, because we didn't care what people were saying. We just focused on what we were supposed to do at that time. I can also tell you, believe me when I tell you this, I didn't run any faster because somebody was talking smack about my team or my performance individual. It didn't make me a better player. I just had to perform on the day like all of us did when we were called upon to do so.
10:09Let's look at the head-to-head between the two sides, United States and Australia. This is actually the first time today that it's a competitive game between the two. As you can see in the four previous, it's been friendly action. There's been a draw, one win for Australia and two wins for the USA. We actually caught up with Jurgen Klinsmann last night saying what the US can expect from Australia. It will not be an easy one because Australia, they know how to fight. I mean, they are physical. and it could be we see some real fights, a little bit of hockey-style fights on the field because Australia is not just coming in there and giving them the three points.
10:48They go in there for a real battle. So the two teams faced each other in October in a friendly 2-1 win for the US and it got a little bit physical, it's fair to say. Mauricio Pochettino remembers it and he spoke about the physicality in that encounter.
11:07We've spoken about the Australia friendly last year in Colorado. Non-official, no friendly. The unofficial match. Because you see the game, that was tough. Thank you for correcting me. Exactly. This is what I want to ask you about because that was a brutally physical game. They were brutal with their tackles. Pulisic was injured in a play that started with a foul. Yes. When you play non-official game, it's completely different. The games become more street games. no friendlies. A street game that are no friendlies. It's interesting to see that, isn't it, Joey? No friendlies. Mauricio Pochettino saying after that game back in October where we did see there were some tensions between the two sides.
11:52Indeed it was, although it was interesting speaking to Australia's players after that game. They acknowledged that whilst it was physical, they didn't feel as though they ever crossed a line or they did anything particularly special when it came to physicality. They just went out there and played their regular game. And hearing from Jurgen Klinsmann before, I remember, back at the last Asian Cup when he was in charge of South Korea, who eliminated Australia in the quarterfinals of that tournament too. Very late, Son Heung-min set pieces proving the difference in the end. And that was a very physical contest and maybe a contest which could carry over to this game against the United States.
12:30That was a game where Australia, admittedly under former coach Graham Arnold rather than Tony Popovich, sat back, absorbed a lot of pressure from the Koreans, but were really taking it to the Koreans without the ball, really pressing them hard. And in the end, as I said, it took a few moments of magic late from Son Heung-min to secure their advancement through to the next round. So Australia play a very physical game, but that's just who they are. That's their identity. I don't think they go particularly out of their way to hurt anybody, to injure anybody. Jerry Sangeria, who injured Christian Pulisic in that friendly back in October, said immediately after the game, I didn't mean to do it.
13:09I was just, you know, laying a challenge. That's just how we play. So it will be physical, but not because I think the Australians are going to try to start a fight or a hockey fight. It's just simply who they are. It's Christian Pulisic, the big talk ahead of this game for the US. You said last night, Herc, that you think he's going to start even though we know he's been nursing an injury. Well, if Tyler Adams, one of the leaders of this team, says, hey, relax, he's going to play, I'll take him for his work. Now, he hasn't trained. If it's just a bruise, like they've been saying, well, he would have played by now.
13:40So something's going on. But if Tyler Adams thinks he's going to play, I think he'll play. And he needs to play if they're going to be successful. He's a player that leads the helm for this team. He's a player that, with his 1v1 ability, can unlock a defensive structure. This Australia team is going to be very pragmatic, sit deep in a low block. Christian Pulisic can be the key to opening them up. And he's the guy who's the face of the franchise. He's the guy who creates everything. He created three goals in 45 minutes against Paraguay. If they are to be successful, I expect Christian Pulisic to be there.
14:13What do you think, Ali? Yeah, I think he's going to play. I didn't expect it to be as bad as, I guess, they explained. I didn't know. Maybe it's a grade one. You know, we don't really know. But if that's the case, they're going to have to just take care of him and wait it out. But yeah, he's one of our best players and he's influencing the attack every moment he can. And I think that at least start him out and then see how it goes. But they have to manage him. If I'm Mauricio Pochettino and I'm talking about not overlooking Australia, I want my best players on the field. And so I have to ask a question to my medical staff.
14:50It's a simple question, very straightforward. Is Christian Pulisic being on the field today, putting him in jeopardy for the rest of the tournament? Is his injury going to get worse by playing today? If the answer to that is yes, then you sit him down and he's not playing. However, that would be confirmation that there is something more to this injury than originally reported. Because if a player who says throughout, it's okay, I'm okay, everything is fine, we're fine, we're good, we're good, you're good, I'm good, you're good, you're good, I'm good, then you're not good. If you're not playing, you're not good.
15:24Which then tells me that there is something more to this than this. I just got kicked and happened to be kicked in the wrong place at the wrong time. Throughout the course of my career, and Hercules knows this well, I got kicked all over the place. All over the place. Full disclosure, because I couldn't get away from anybody, and so therefore they just had to kick me. But regardless, if indeed this was about being kicked, these are things, these are bruises and knocks and whatever you want to call it, glorified boo-boos. These are things that you get over fairly quickly. Unless, of course, there is something else.
16:03And if he's not on the field today, let me just tell you, it is fair to assume that there is something else here that is far more, I think, relevant and important than just a bruise, than just a kick. Yeah, let's see. With or without Christian Pulisic taking a look at the odds for this game between the US and Australia, the US come into it as big favourites. But that, of course, was the case when it came to Australia taking on Turkey. And we know what happened there. As we do have Joey Lynch here, we've got to get your prediction, Joey.
16:36It's got to be a very interesting way to draw in the Turkey game and then was surprised by the Australian scoring twice. I think it very much comes down to who can start better, who can get an early goal. So much of Australia's game plan is built upon a certain game state. They're not a side built to chase the game, have the majority of possession, break down foes. They like to absorb pressure, hit on the counter. So I think if they can survive to the first drinks break, the quarter time break, where they can adjust and reassess, I think they're a very good chance. I tend to think maybe they can jag an early goal, but maybe the United States, the high-powered attack, eventually will wear them down and break them down.
17:17So maybe I'm looking at a 1-1 draw. Oh, OK. Maybe that's a win then. Once again for Australia with a draw. Joey said there. Our predictions will be coming up later. Joey, thank you so much for joining us. Thanks for getting up early for us. You really are sleepless in Seattle. I can't forget that one. All the Americas coming up today, of course, with Herc and the crew, 2 p.m. Eastern, right here on ESPN2. And Adrian Healy joined up with the Scotland fans last night, and let me tell you, it was a match made in heaven. More from Adrian after this.
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19:34After winning their opener, the Scottish could secure their spot in the knockouts with a win over Morocco. A reminder that they have never made it past the group stage in the World Cup. The Scots have been stealing America's hearts, though, taking over Boston and doing so much good in the process as well. They've not just been taking over Boston, though. They've also been taking over the shots of some of our reporters who are on the ground in Boston. One of them, Adrian Healy.
20:06Dan, I am in Union Square in Boston. I can barely hear you. Jump again on fire! Dan, Dan, thank you on the side! God is for Dan! Dan, thank you on the side! You guys know, you better like you guys with my super jump again! It is a total love affair between this city and these Scots. Who so much are they? Some of these guys are never going home again. Listen, we just want to cuddle you anyway. All right. Oh, here he is, no doubt feeling a little worse for wear. Welcome in, Adrian. Tell us what that experience was like. Yeah, Kate, good morning, all of you. A little bit of a sore head, as you might understand this morning, but we are right back here at Union Street, where it happened last night.
20:59This is kind of like one of the many HQs for all the Scottish fans, but it was just something else. I've been in Dallas with the Dutch and the English, and they were both great. They were both top level, but this Titan Army invasion is really something else. And, you know, I think this is the perfect city for them. That's what it's all about. Boston is, yeah, in many ways kind of a European city. It's got a European feel to it. It's also a sports-mad city, completely sports-mad city. So the locals here totally get what the Tottenham army are all about. Maybe not the Sporans. They have questions over the Sporans, which I think is fair enough.
21:38But everything else they totally get. So it's been a two-way thing between the Tottenham army and this city. You've got to love it. Well, first of all, if you didn't know, Adrian is a very cuddly guy. So I can see why people want to get around Adrian. That in itself. Nice. And I think the experience for the Scottish fans, when they see a microphone and they see Adrian Healy, you can't help yourself. Now, every song was about John McGinn. They have more players. They have more players. And Adrian, if there was one guy that we could send out to do this job, it would have to be Adrian Healy. It absolutely would.
22:13I know, Adrian, you make a good point that it's a perfect fit for them, Boston, because it's Miami next. And I just worry about the sunscreen. But I can't wait for the content. It's going to be amazing. But Adrian, this has been more than just some drink fest, which we're seeing. It's been a whole cultural experience as well. They've been giving back to the community. Tell us a little bit about what the Scots have been doing on their travels. Yeah, I mean, they've drunk the city dry, but they always make a point of introducing Scottish culture wherever they go. And, you know, there's been many different things going on, starting at the Statehouse.
22:47This is Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, good name by the way, signing a declaration to make haggis legal again in the state of Massachusetts. Not quite sure about the wisdom, but I know Herc's a big haggis fan, so he'll be pleased with that. And then getting together with the Norwegian fans, lots of intermingling between the two fan groups and doing some fine Norwegian rowing, probably North Atlantic rowing between the two of them. And that was terrific to witness. And then, of course, the ubiquitous orange and white traffic cones everywhere. Every statue in Boston. Some of them seemingly unreachable, including the statue of George Washington, which is about 50 feet high.
23:31I don't know how they get up there, but they have their ways and means. And they leave their mark on any city in a terrific way. Plenty of people wearing the cones on their heads as well. I'm surprised I haven't had to wear one on my head. Maybe it's only a matter of time to come. And then, on a more serious note, they actually donate money as well to the local communities. $10 ,000 to Children's Hospital Cancer Unit,$10 ,000 to Soccer for Underprivileged Kids, $6 ,500 to help kids learn bagpipes. How about that? So, yeah, I mean, from every city official and mayor and everything, you just hear pure delight that the Scots are here, and many of them hope they'll never leave.
24:13I love it. There's even Scotland flags behind that. It's been amazing, hasn't it, just to witness it all and for the Scots to bring their culture to America. Yeah, it's wonderful. And I also I also saw a photo of the metro kind of being connected all the way from Boston to Glasgow on online, which I thought was creative so that they can have an easier trip back and forth. But it's a beautiful country, wonderful people. My partner is also Scottish and she's an incredible human being. So I can only imagine. She's been up there enjoying it. I see the connection now. We've come full circle. I'm all for the Scots.
Read the full transcript
24:48So you're telling me these people are amazing, they're fun, they're vibrant, and the representation we have is Craig Burley here? That's my connection to Scotland? Well, beyond that, actually, I told you that the shows that late at night were a little dark. Yes. I was with Stevie the other day, and he was asked the question, are you more proud of Scotland because they won their first match or because they drank all the beer in Boston? And there was no doubt what the answer was. This guy lit up when they said, yeah, we drank all that beer. Yeah, we did. This group is just amazing. The group, see, it's the party group.
25:26It's the best fan-based group. Haiti comes back after 50 years. You've got Morocco fans who are just on another level. Brazil who always shows out and Scotland making their way back. It is the party group. This is the party group. But we've got our party man, as we can see. Adrian Healy is getting involved with all the fan bases. Just tell us a little bit about your travels so far and everything that you've been experiencing, Adrian. Well, Dallas and Boston are the two main cities I've been to so far. I spent a few days in Dallas with the Dutch and the English, who were very different fan groups in their own way, did it their own way.
25:58But both of them are absolutely tremendous and a really friendly invasion. That seems to be the theme, whatever fan group we're talking about. They took over different areas. But Dallas is a lot more spread out. So it wasn't like the concentration of the Scots you see here. But this, I've got to say, I don't know if we're ever going to top this Titan Army invasion of Boston. By the way, has anyone actually checked the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh to see if anyone's left there? Because it really does feel like everyone is here, literally everyone. And I can tell you, the journey down to the match today is going to be something else.
26:31I don't know how we're going to get everyone down there. It's 25 miles away, Gillette Stadium. There's just as many Scottish fans in Providence, the city south of the stadium. And let's not forget the Morocco fans. They've been brilliant too. And the intermingling has been just terrific. Just really what the world needs right now, I think. And it's just been just a heartwarming story all around. Let's see what happens on the pitch, though, because I think the Scots would take a point today. They would snap your arm off it. There were lots of confident Scots here last night saying, no, we're going to win, we're going to win, but a point would be golden for the Morocco fans know what they have in their team.
27:06Well, they've only met one time before, and it was in the 98 group stages of the World Cup. Morocco won that game 3-0, and Craig Burley got a red card. Oh, I'm shocked. Oh, I'm shocked. That's it with the bleach set. Apparently, the whole team had agreed to bleach their hair for the final round, the final game. Yeah, but I... Everybody didn't go through with it. Craig still did, so... It really is the leader of the pack. They really followed him. You go ahead, you go ahead, Craig, you do it There you go, a bit of history That's a brilliant one, isn't it, Adrian? Last time they faced Morocco, Craig Burley got red carded I did ask a few Scots about that yesterday He's like, do you remember the last time he played Morocco in the World Cup?
27:48The only time, and yes, Craig Burley's name did come out I think someone called him the toothless wonder Did he have teeth at that time? I forget whether they'd already been knocked out I'm sure that's the nicest thing they called him The picture of him is iconic. Yes, no, he did not. Adrian, you've been brilliant. We look forward to hearing a lot more from you on your travels. We'll let you go nurse that hangover and enjoy all the days. He's a professional.
28:15Thanks, guys. Here's the Brazil fans in Philadelphia. We did say that it has been a party group. They, too, have been to the Rocky statue. And we'll be getting to see more of Brazil in action as we head into match day two. Make sure to stick with us here on ESPN FC tonight, 11 p.m. Eastern. We will be reacting to the game between Brazil and Haiti. You can catch it on ESPN Plus and, of course, all across YouTube. Yesterday, Mexico officially clinched top spot in Group A. We'll look back on all of it when we come back.
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30:57Mexico became the first team to book their place in the round of 32 at the World Cup after defeating South Korea 1-0 at Estadio Guadalajara. And around 400 ,000 people took to the streets to celebrate the national team's victory. Where's Adrian? Mexico City and Zocalo, we saw Mexican fans enjoying the party spirit. They are through to the knockout stages. Herc, they're through. Are they going to go all the way? Where? To the sixth game now. El sexto partido, no longer del quinto partido. That is the goal. That is the bar. This Mexican national team isn't the Mexico of old. The Mexico of old would be much more progressive in their play, much more fluid, much more possession-based.
31:43But that's not who Javier Aguirre is. He's the third coach in this cycle. He is a bombero, a fireman. And he comes in and rescues the team. He is known for stabilizing the ship. But by no means is it going to be imaginative, creative. Is it going to be pleasing to the eye? His lineup yesterday was defensive. It was pragmatic. It was bend, do not break. And it was let's get out of here with the three points and go home. He knew exactly who he had in front of him. South Korea is a very dynamic team. He wanted to maintain the zero. By the way, the second zero in this World Cup. Second win in this World Cup.
32:16Ninth zero in the last 12 games. and for the play that people aren't happy with, he did what he had to do to advance. Now the round of 32 is guaranteed. You will get one of the third best eight-place teams or eighth third best teams and hopefully get a good draw. And from there, you're going to get a big boy. And it's what can you do with a home field advantage in Estadio Azteca where you've got the altitude, you've got the pollution, you've got the home fan base. It's heavy. It's intimidating. Can you do something special? This team is by no means spectacular, but that's what gives me optimism about them doing something they've never done before.
32:54Because you've seen it the old way did not work. This pragmatic approach is getting them results. Can they squeeze something by? It depends on the opponent. Can Rone 16 be against England? It can be against England. And you guys know the English much better than I, but I would love to see the English play in the altitude, play in the pollution, play in the sun, and see how they do against a team that feels very comfortable in those elements. They've got a very favorable record at home, and there's a reason for that. Okay. Canada had themselves a big win. They waited all this time for a World Cup win, and they did it in style.
33:28A 6-0 win, no less. We saw six goals. We saw two red cards, and we got to see Jonathan David with a hat trick as well. Total dominance by Canada. Look at these scenes in Vancouver. I mean, this was a big win and a big result, Ale. Absolutely it was. And even before the red cards for Qatar, Canada had been dominant in the game. They had been performing at a really high level. They had sustained pressure, creative and dynamic in the attack. The work that you're getting out of the right-hand side from Tajem Bichanan. And in general, what you're getting in the final third, I suppose it's not something that we should be surprised with, but because you haven't done it in the World Cup, you still have to ask the question, is this team capable of actually producing at this level?
34:17And they did so and more against Qatar. There's nothing that you can ask of Canada after yesterday's performance. I think it's very encouraging, looking into what's ahead for Canada and for Jesse Marsh and this team. Filled with confidence, filled with joy. Apparently, unless you're Jesse Marsh and you always find a reason to get mad about something, which is something that I think he thrives. He likes to be uncomfortable with stuff. And I think in this sort of environment, which we saw this back and forth with Julian Lopetegui, clearly Jesse Mars got under Lopetegui's skin. And he's not the first one, nor will he be the last one.
34:54Because let me just tell you, Jesse Mars is just an annoying guy. What's going on here? He is, but it's to his credit. That's a return. No, but hold on. Is he not an annoying guy? To the opponent, yes. Yes. Well, he's annoying, period. And he'll talk your ear off. He'll do that. But it works for him. And he thrives in that environment. And so does his team. He likes it. He enjoys it. Lopetegui doesn't. Six-nothing tells you that Canada enjoys it as well. So more power to Jesse Marsch. You do you and do it the way you want to do it. But, yeah, let's not get crazy. He is annoying. Six goals for Canada.
35:34Big win. First World Cup win. They move on from here. Yeah. I mean, congrats to them. They obviously have built off of that first performance and then continued that confidence, that motivation to score a lot of goals. They created opportunities. They were combining really well. They made each other look good. Laren obviously impressed in the first game by scoring a goal and then was able to play and continue that. Unfortunate with the injury. I thought that was really sad for them. But the way that they reacted and solidified the win was great. And now they can move on. Yeah, absolutely. Love to Ishmael Kone with that injury that was picked up in that game.
36:07Okay, time to move on. Almiria against Malaga. He'll be moving on to La Liga Saturday, 3 p.m. Eastern. The final of the second leg coming up. ESPN Plus, be sure to catch that game. Next up, Herc is talking tactics over at the sandbox. And Ale gets to sample the delights of the USA and Australia.
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37:50I'm sorry, are we a soccer country now? I don't know about that. It's definitely called soccer this morning. I can say that. I cannot believe what my eyes have just seen. I actually had to check that this was a US team I was watching. The one thing that will get a grip of the public is not noise, it's performance. And we got that. We said to dream big, and today was a dream start. It was a complete dominance. Take away the first two minutes, and it truly was all the United States. The USA passed it forward at every opportunity. I do not think I had seen this bit of performance from the U.S. men's national team at any level of the game.
38:30The first half couldn't have been any better. I haven't seen a U.S. team play that well in a long time. I've watched the U.S. talk for 40 years. This was the best game they've ever played on international stage. One of the absolute top three performances of a U.S. team in the last 20, 25 years. The first half was as good as I've seen any national team play in any tournament, let alone the World Cup. One of the best U.S. national team performances in a World Cup. I don't think I'm surprised. I've seen us play like this recently. Three goals in our first half opening game. I felt like it was a real statement, you know, and that's what we wanted to do.
39:07A lot of excitement after the U.S.'s first performance in World Cup 2026. A party in the USA. But we're about to have a party over at the sandbox now because Hercules Gomez is making his debut over there for more on that U.S. performance. All right, Paraguay was a mid-block, and they took advantage of it. But a lot of what they took advantage, they created, they being the U.S. men's national team. These spaces in between the outside back and the center back. Manish Impocino is actually very intelligent in how he set up his team. They're trying to exploit these spaces right here. And how do they do it?
39:41With the movement of the midfield, which I thought was brilliant. You had guys like Malik Tillman stepping up into these areas, Weston McKinney stepping up into these areas, Christian Pulisic oftentimes wide, and they would take advantage of these places where they couldn't be. They had the Paraguayan national team wondering where they are, who do I go to? And in that fluid movement, they found tons of opportunities for guys like Afoller and Balagan to come in and take advantage and do what he does best. but when they don't have the ball, when they are looking to just be safe, it is very intelligent what they did.
40:18They push up, they bring these guys up, and you have Ream, Richards, and Alex Freeman, if you notice, because Serginio DeSue is wide, would come and operate in these zones. He was very good, and what allows him to be very good in these zones to push up and press the opponent is that Tyler Adams would always step in as a third center back. So when you step in as a third center back, you always have a line of three here. You always have this protection, this zone. So Paraguay, even when they won the ball, they had nowhere to go. They could never threaten in behind. I thought that was very intelligent.
40:52They operated in the zones where we know that Christian Pulisic 1v1 could be dangerous, where we know Christian Pulisic can go at players, but they were also safe and compact in how they defended. But Australia is not going to be that type of team. Australia doesn't pretend to be something they're not. They are against Turkey A, just a pragmatic team. Everybody in the box and you can see it here. We're going to see a line of six. They're going to defend nine, ten guys in the box. They know exactly who they are. They know exactly what they want to do. They've got some players that are very good in transition.
41:29This guy, Irancunda, is a speedster. He scores against Turkey A and as soon as they get the ball, he breaks. He's off to the races. Torre, their nine, is off to the races. Metcalf, who scored the second goal, he is supporting. And this guy, Jordan Boss, who actually scored against the U.S. Men's National Team last time they played, he is a baller. They know exactly who they are. They will defend at will. They will defend like crazy. They will fight. They will make it physical. And when they get a chance, they will break. This is Australia. It will be a hard physical matchup. The U.S. Men's National Team may get a low block, may get a mid block, but they have to be ready for it.
42:02And if they are gonna do this low block, if they are going to be in the box, you have to take advantage of these spaces. You've got to take advantage of 1v1 situations. These are the areas that Australia will allow you to play in. And if the U.S. Men's National League can do that, if Australia gives them 30-plus shots like the Tricky A, it's going to be a long afternoon for Australia. Thanks, Herc. On the pitch, it is going to be physical, competitive, tasty, just like the cuisines of the countries. Here's Food Network's chef Bobby Flay with Ali and Alexis to give us a taste of the action.
42:38Hey everybody, I'm Bobby Flay here in New York City at my friend Chef Sam Hazen's restaurant, Palladino's Steak and Seafood with some World Cup cuisine matchups.
42:52Okay, so Group D matchup now. This is a very interesting one and it is the USA, this time up against Australia, familiar frenemy. I think other countries think of American cuisine still as like hamburgers and hot dogs. It's okay. A great burger is a great burger. It's looking good. Oh, you're Jersey. I had to do this for the burger. Classic burger. So this is our real American cheese cheeseburger with some great French fries and obviously some American ketchup. USA. USA. Burgers to me is the quintessential sandwich. and you want to think about every single component. It's like charred on the edges again and softer on the inside, which I love.
43:36Only salt and pepper. Salt and pepper very heavily, so you create that great crust, either a cast iron pan or a griddle, so that you get that great crust and it steers in the juices on the inside. The cheese must be melted completely. And I will say American cheese is the best cheese for a burger. The U.S. Men's National Team right now, Ali, this is going to be a huge moment. Obviously, the USA brought in Mauricio Pochettino As a coach, being Argentinian, I mean, he eats, sleeps, breathes football. There has been adjustments within the personnel, within the style of play, within the identity, but we have to now see it proven.
44:09So this is for Australia. Thank you, chef. And sin quejo. And also we've got to think about Pavlova, who this dish was made for. The great ballerina. Enjoy. Some meringue, custard, some fruit. Fresh fruit. Australian food is really about the ingredients that they have, and they take on a lot of influence from other places as well. I really like this dessert, and I'm not a dessert gal, but I love the texture of the fruit mixed with the meringue and, like, the shell. And then the sauce on the top was an extra touch. It was very flavorful. All right, so in this matchup of the USA against Australia, on the plate, Ali, who wins?
44:45When we specifically talk about food and the situation, these two, I'm gonna give it to Australia. Whoa! This really impressed me. Bobby, who wins this battle on the pitch? Well, they say never to bet with your heart, but I'm betting with my heart. It's got to be the United States. Yay! USA! Pavlova in one hand, cheeseburger in the other. Okay, I'm ready. And a beer.
45:10Wow. I've never seen him so upset. U.S. Women's National Team legend, two-time World Cup winner with the U.S., Ali Krieger chose the Australian cuisine over the U.S. burger. I think people are going to be very upset at me. I was upset. Never mind people. I'm upset. Are you kidding me? I'm just giving people more to talk about. Yeah, we've already heard enough. You're trying to give the U.S. bulletin material. Australia have used it. Apparently the U.S. need it. Meringue over a burger. Do you know what? The burgers with tomatoes in it and then you take a bite and the tomato slips out the back. But that's a that's operator error.
45:53You think Bobby Flay was offended? He's got a burger place in Vegas. He was like, excuse me? However, you did tell us, Ali, that we were saying, oh, Australian, why is it not another shrimp on the barbie? And you corrected us here. Yes, and that is actually not an Australian dish originally. That is not an Australian dish. But the flaw was actually amazing. You would just crunch into it, and it was really tasteful. The burger is so obvious. Take your word for it. We didn't get the invite. It's a good thing that you actually got me going on this because Hercules had already gotten me going with the mid-block, low-block nonsense.
46:29Come on, man. You are drinking the Kool-Aid with the low-block and mid-block. We played this game for 40 years. We never used that terminology. What are you talking about? All right. Go on, burgers! America, baby! Maybe Ali does like the evening show after all. No, no, no. Bring me a burger and I'll get positive. After the U.S. game, ESPN2 has you covered right at the final whistle of that U.S.-Australia game. We'll be on YouTube as well, Ali, and myself. Make sure to join us live right at the final whistle. We'll be with you to look back on how it all goes down between the U.S. and Australia.
47:07He's hangry. After the break, predictions are coming, and no doubt the conversation will continue. We'll come predictions up next. Boston Legacy taking on Bay FC in NWSL action on Sunday, July 5th at noon Eastern. Be sure to catch it on ESPN.
47:31Pitch Preview is brought to you by DraftKings Sports. And here's a look at what we've got coming up today. United States taking on Australia, followed by Scotland against Morocco. Then it's Brazil against Haiti. And later on tonight, Turkey taking on Paraguay. But the all-important question, how are today's games going to go? It's prediction time here. Let's get started with you, Ali Moreno. U.S. or Australia? Are you kidding me right now? Okay, Australia, you can make up all the narratives you want. Picking the U.S. of A, burgers all around. Yes, sir. America, baby, number one. Let's get our U.S.
48:12internationals in on the action. Herc. Yeah, I think the US at home against a team that's gonna sit in, pack it in. If they give up 30 shots against Turkey, it's gonna be a long afternoon. I'll go USA on this one. Ali? I'm with the boys and the burgers today. Hey! There she is. She's back. I'm back. She's back. There we go. All right. Let's move on. Okay, good. I'm an American citizen now. I've got to, right? That's fine. I won't. Okay. Turkey, Paraguay. Ali? Okay. Okay, well, Paraguay, you were awful, so I cannot pick you. You were awful too, so about a draw. I'll do that. Whew. Uh, I'm gonna pick Paraguay on this one.
48:53I think they were so bad that the bar is low. This is not the team I saw in qualifying. I think they're gonna pull something off. Things can only get better, huh? I think Tokyo is gonna take this one. Same. All right. Oh, you came in. Scotland Morocco. Don't even, uh-uh. No.
49:12Oh, once again, she's got to. You know what? Yes. Yeah. Also, you have to answer to somebody at home. Well documented. I am a quarter Scottish. Going for the Scots. Brazil, Haiti. Okay. Penta campeon. Brazil has, they have to be so much better than they were against Morocco and they will be Haiti. Good luck. And we just get my man, Duckins, in the zone, the all-time million goal score for Haiti on the field, and it'll be a win for Haiti. But it's going to be Brazil. What a backhanded compliment that was. There's already going to be changes for sure, and there's a higher ceiling for them, absolutely.
49:51Yep. Okay, all right. Brazil. All right. So, England, as you know, here in the U.S., Thomas Tuchel smiling. Why could possibly go wrong? He threw out the first pitch at the Royals games last night. How did he do? Why was it he and not Harry? Why wasn't it a player? What's going on here? Oh, all right. Oh, hey. He got it there. He got it there. The technique. Oh, wait a minute. What's this? Wait a minute. What is this? What a minute? Wait a minute. Wait a minute. What? What? Where are you driving? Where are you going? Oh, he's looking into the future. I had to think. I had to clear my mind. I had to clear my mind.
50:35Off road. You went off road. What is going on? You went off-road. What a fake that is. You haven't been off-road with those shoes. Are you kidding me? I had to clear my mind, Ale. No! Can we all get a Kia, too? Yeah, can we all get one, too? Never mind a Kia. Can I get your autograph? You're looking into the future. Big star of the show. We'll see you tomorrow if you just like to meet you. Hey, Ale.
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From the publisher
This edition of ESPN FC starts by looking ahead to the USMNT's second World Cup match. This time they take on Australia. How big a challenge will the Socceroos pose? Next, the Tartan Army has taken over Boston ahead of their match today against Morocco. Will the good times keep rolling? Also, Mexico clinched their spot in the knockout round last night vs. South Korea. How far can this team go? The show closes out with some match-day predictions.
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