In short
The episode previews the World Cup round of 32 and trades bracket predictions. It focuses on group-stage storylines: Colombia’s 0-0 vs Portugal (Colombia topped Group K on the draw) and Austria’s late 3-3 vs Algeria (Cesar Kaalajdzic equalized in the 96th minute after Riyad Mahrez thought he’d won in the 93rd).
Key claims
Colombia look like a “dark horse” because of relentless high tempo, strong transition play, and passing patterns that “made Portugal look silly,” with Luis Díaz underperforming but James Rodriguez praised. Portugal are criticized for second-half lack of intent/dynamic movement and poor finishing, despite some encouraging link-up play involving João Félix and Ronaldo dropping deep.
Notable examples
Messi’s bench cameo vs Jordan (scored and set records), England’s 2-0 vs Panama with Rashford and Kane, and Klopp’s praise of the US team’s depth and coach quality.
Guests
Ali Krieger (former US player), Alejandro Moreno (former pro), Shaka Hislop (former goalkeeper/analyst), plus ESPN Brazil journalist Andre Cafúri and Jürgen Klopp interview (Red Bull oversight).
Written by AI. May contain mistakes. Listen to the episode to check what was said.
Chapters
Tap a time to open that second in VOGroup Stage Overview
1:02 to 2:05
Discussion of the results and highlights of the World Cup group stage.
“The group stages are over so we can forget all the math and the algorithm and all of those things.”
Colombia vs. Portugal Analysis
2:05 to 4:38
In-depth analysis of the Colombia vs. Portugal match and its implications.
“Cristiano Ronaldo playing every single minute so far in the World Cup as it stands.”
Portugal's Struggles and Colombia's Strengths
4:38 to 6:40
Discussion on Portugal’s disappointing performance and Colombia’s promising potential.
“First of all, I thought it was a great game of football.”
World Cup Magic and Last-Minute Drama
6:40 to 8:17
Highlights of the last-minute drama in World Cup group matches, focusing on Austria and Algeria.
“give me Puerta, even though Vitina is a world-class player.”
Argentina's Path Forward
8:17 to 10:34
Examination of Argentina's performance and their path in the knockout stages.
“that it was going to be a fatal blow for the Austrians that would have sent them packing.”
Predictions for Knockout Stage Matches
10:34 to 14:01
Hosts share predictions for upcoming knockout stage matches in the World Cup.
“You're not seeing any of the big boys up until they get to Colombia.”
World Cup Knockouts Predictions
14:01 to 18:41
The hosts discuss their predictions for the knockout stage matches in the World Cup.
“Obviously, the quality that Portugal have, it just hasn't been good enough for me.”
Group L Analysis and Discussion
20:20 to 28:00
Analysis of England's performance in Group L and their potential in the knockout stage.
“England rounded out Group L with a 2-0 win over Panama to secure top spot in the group.”
Initial Predictions and Banter
28:00 to 30:06
The hosts discuss their favorites for the World Cup knockout stages with humorous interactions.
“Just because Kay's going to pick England, and she just talked about my running style, so there you go.”
Initial Predictions and Banter
30:07 to 30:53
The hosts discuss their favorites for the World Cup knockout stages with humorous interactions.
“Smalls here, if you're heading into summer without a medical emergency kit, you're taking a risk most people don't think about until it's too late.”
Show all 19 chapters
Initial Predictions and Banter
31:35 to 31:50
The hosts discuss their favorites for the World Cup knockout stages with humorous interactions.
Brazil vs. Japan Preview
31:51 to 36:21
Analysis of Brazil's expected performance against Japan, including player highlights.
“Monday, Houston, Brazil taking on Japan in the round of 32, 1pm Eastern.”
Knockout Stage Predictions
36:22 to 40:38
The hosts share their predictions for the knockout stage matchups and discuss possible outcomes.
“Yep, lots of games still to enjoy in the round of 32.”
Knockout Stage Predictions
40:50 to 41:55
The hosts share their predictions for the knockout stage matchups and discuss possible outcomes.
“The one that makes buying so incredibly easy?”
World Cup Round of 32 Predictions
42:44 to 45:04
Discussion on World Cup team performances and predictions.
“What have you made of their tournament so far?”
Insights from Jurgen Klopp's Interview
45:04 to 48:21
Shaka shares insights from his interview with Jurgen Klopp.
“Now, we watch the games, I speak about it, you probably have to speak about it as well.”
Reflecting on the Tartan Army's Journey
48:21 to 51:00
Discussion on the Tartan Army's participation and impact in the World Cup.
“More on that interview over on our social channels.”
Ali Krieger's Experience at the Game
51:00 to 53:26
Ali shares her experience attending a game and her interactions.
“How amazing has this fan base been here in the United States, Ali?”
Ali Krieger's Experience at the Game
53:41 to 54:02
Ali shares her experience attending a game and her interactions.
“You think you know a browser, but Gemini and Chrome, that's new.”
Transcript
Automatic transcript. May contain errors.0:00Are all batteries the same? That's like asking if all soccer players are the same. Take Messi, the most decorated player ever. Is there any other player who has achieved that? No, just him. Now take Duracell. Is there any other battery with Power Boost ingredients inside? No, just Duracell. Remember, goats only trust goats because they're built different and Messi only trusts Duracell.
0:31Dan Thomas:Coming up, the group stage is over. Austria in a dramatic finish punches the final ticket to the round of 32. Lionel Messi comes off the bench to break another record. Colombia tops group K ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal. And England leave it late against Panama as they look to step it up a gear in the knockout stages. And Xhaka's been schmoozing. Maybe you're the first one who makes that compare to me. I'm not. I am absolutely certain I'm not. Yeah, yeah, OK. ESPNFC, next.
1:10Dan Thomas:Hello and good morning to you. The group stages are over so we can forget all the math and the algorithm and all of those things. Thank goodness. The round of 32 is upon us. Ali Krieger is back with us. So too is Alejandro Moreno. And Shaka Hislop is here as well. Here we go. The knockout stages are set. Today begins the round of 32. No more number crunching, but we will have our brackets coming up a little later on. What could possibly go wrong? A lot. A lot. Shaq has been schmoozing. Ali Krieger has been to see England where they actually scored goals in the game that she went to see. Ali's knees don't hurt.
1:46Dan Thomas:Ali's knees don't hurt today. Thank you, America. You're welcome. You're welcome. But we must talk about, OK, Colombia against Portugal. It was a game that finished 0-0, but it was certainly a very entertaining draw. That concluded the group. It was enough to see Colombia beat Portugal to top spot. And that's how things finished there. Cristiano Ronaldo playing every single minute so far in the World Cup as it stands. So let's get to this game and everything that we made of it. And let's get to the fact that it was a very entertaining 0-0, wasn't it? It was. As 0-0 goes, this was a really good game.
2:24And in the first half, there was a period of time to end the first half. It was about 15, 20 minutes to go in the first half, in which this game just went crazy. It was back and forth and back and forth. And towards the second half, what was noticeable to me is that there was one team trying to win the game and the other team just kind of hanging on and hoping to get a counterattack. And Colombia, the team that did not need to win this match to finish first in the group, they were the ones trying to win the game. whereas Portugal were just kind of absorbing pressure and hopefully, hopefully, Rafael Leal with a counterattack and his feet coming off the bench would have made a difference.
2:58It was underwhelming from Portugal in terms of their approach in the second half. I was really, really impressed with Colombia throughout the course of the match and I saw performances from Colombia that I think are going to be really important for them going forward in this competition. I thought James Rodriguez, for the 75 minutes that he played, he was really good. There were other performances individually for Colombia that were outstanding. But the one guy that you needed to be outstanding, which was Luis Diaz, was not quite so. If they put all of that together, Colombia may be a scary team in the knockout stage.
3:28As for Portugal, underwhelming. I was not impressed by their approach in the second half. I was not impressed with how they played the second half and their lack of intent going forward, their lack of dynamic movement going forward. I was expecting more for Portugal, but maybe this is who they are. Is this who Portugal are then? Yeah, recently. They've been really boring to watch, to be honest. And it's been a shame because they have such quality players. And obviously, Ronaldo, even though he did score those two goals, he still didn't perform to the quality that he is and the leader that they need.
4:07And I think Colombia, they've been my dark horse throughout this tournament so far. I think they've been impressive on the transition moments. They've been super dangerous, despite the fact that they don't really have this young forward star that they might need in order to continue to do these knockout rounds. But they've been, they had passing patterns throughout the match that were super impressive and made Portugal look absolutely silly. So I'm extremely excited to see Colombia through these knockout rounds. I think they can go really far throughout. So what's wrong with Portugal, Shaq? Well, I'll be honest, I'm listening to this and I think it's a little bit harsh.
4:39First of all, I thought it was a great game of football. Try explaining to someone who doesn't understand this game that a nil-nil can be this good a game.
4:47Dan Thomas:Just not when it's England-Ghana. Well, well. But what is, really? Well, but I thought at times Portugal played well. I thought they were good possession, good spells of play. João Felix, who I thought was pretty good through the game, but had some guilt-tized opportunities that really should have done better. And I felt that Portugal's finishing let them down in so many ways. But a lot of their link-up play, including Ronaldo having to drop off deep and get involved in a certain combination, I thought was encouraging from a Portugal perspective. Again, I think in front of goal where it absolutely mattered, that's where things came unstuck for them.
5:26The other side of that coin, though, was Colombia, who I thought played a high-tempo game that I've not seen from anybody else so far this tournament. and is worrying for everybody else in this tournament. If they can continue to play with that kind of tempo for 90 or 120 minutes, whatever it takes, there aren't many teams that can match them in this tournament, match them for pace, for tempo. There are teams with more quality, but I'm not sure who can match them for just the general drive that you saw from them from beginning to end, which I thought was just simply relentless. Here's the thing, Shaq.
6:01I understand that on the balance of the match, It's not like Portugal were poor, but they needed to win the game in order to finish first in the group. And I didn't see that approach nor that hunger from Portugal. I saw it from Colombia. I didn't see it from Portugal. And I want to see the world-class players that Portugal has on the field, say, for example, Vitinha, then take control of a game so that it's not a back and forth, so that Portugal is in full control of possession. You cannot tell me, based on what we saw yesterday, that Vitinha is any better than Puerta for Colombia. a young kid that is just getting all over the field, all around the field, getting tackles in, keeping possession for Colombia, setting the tempo and the rhythm for Colombia.
6:37And so if you put them together based on what we saw yesterday, give me Puerta, even though Vitina is a world-class player. I want to see world-class performances from world-class players. That's what Colombia saw, or that's what we saw from Colombia, and we did not see enough from Portugal.
6:50Dan Thomas:You just saw Portugal's path there and how it looks for them. Croatia up next, and it could be Spain after that, if Spain can beat Austria. As for Colombia, this is how things are looking for them when it comes to the bracket right now. It's Ghana next for them over on the same side of the bracket against Switzerland and Algeria. From what you've seen then, Ali, sorry, Creed, you obviously like what you've seen from Colombia. Is this a game they can win against Ghana? You know, it is going to be difficult. Obviously, Ghana has a lot of talent as well. They have, you know, defensive discipline and they're organized and they can get you on the counter and obviously finish in clinical situations.
7:31So we'll see. But I do think Colombia, because of the quality, because of the urgency and the resiliency that they showed even last night, I thought they were brilliant. And I'm really looking forward to seeing more of that. And I think they can have this have this game in hand.
7:44Dan Thomas:So that 0-0, there was entertainment and there was drama, but then we got a 3-3 that was full of entertainment and full of very late drama in Group J between Austria and Algeria. The Austrian struck in the 96 minutes through Cesar Kalaidzic's last gasp, equaliser, and now both sides reach the round of 32. They both got the point that they needed. Riyad Mahrez thought that he'd scored the winner in the 93rd. that would have made Algeria runners-up, but Kalejic did get that equaliser. It did look, though, just before that, that it was going to be a fatal blow for the Austrians that would have sent them packing.
8:21Dan Thomas:I mean, this is the magic of the World Cup, right in action before our eyes here, Shaka. It really is. And a lot of times, especially in these third games of the tournament, we're looking at all sorts of different conundrums. Conundrums? Yeah. All right. Whether it's head-to-head, and it even comes down to, at times, and we saw this three and a half years ago in particular, yellow cards, and how quickly things change. And again, we've seen these games, we've seen these groups being decided in the closing moments of the game where things just get absolutely frantic. Nobody seems to have any kind of pattern of play.
8:55Everybody's just throwing everything at the fan and seeing what sticks. And credit to Austria for getting the best in that absolute chaos.
9:05Dan Thomas:Elsewhere in Group J, not really much to play for between Jordan and Argentina, but we still have a lot to talk about after this game because we did see Lionel Messi rested, but coming off the bench and making a difference once again. Ali Moreno, this is a man, you can't keep him down. Even when he's benched, he comes on and makes a difference. I knew we were going to talk about Messi, but there wasn't a whole lot to talk about in this match, or Messi in particular. What we saw from Lionel Messi was essentially a training session in what's supposed to be a competitive environment. Just get some touches out there, Leo.
9:36And he found himself a goal. Now, I know Xhaka doesn't want to talk about it, and this is perhaps not the main topic of conversation, but the goalkeeper for Jordan, are you joking with me right now? In both free kicks. Both free kicks, Xhaka. Not just the one goal from Lionel Messi. Lo Celso also in the first half. Your boy, Xhaka Strafik. Your boy.
9:57Dan Thomas:Anything to say, Xhaka? It's low sun. Your sun is telling me. It just comes over the top of the stadium. It's an indoor stadium. Okay, what we can look at then is Argentina's path. Argentina against the darlings of the tournament so far, Cape Verde in the round of 32. Okay, let's get to it. Then after that, it could be Australia or Egypt. This is how things are looking on their side of the bracket. What are we thinking? It's a beautiful bracket for Argentina. I know that much. You look at that bracket and you're going, yep, I like this. I like this. You're not seeing any of the big boys up until they get to Colombia.
10:37And Colombia is not really a big boy per se. And so all the way to the quarterfinals, it seems very open for Argentina. It's just a matter of whether they're able to meet the standards and their expectations. But Argentina, at the very least, should be at the quarterfinals.
10:49Dan Thomas:Because we can say that, Satya. But then is there a fear that you do underestimate this competition that you've got coming up? Yeah, then I think you just have to be careful of not getting complacent and have to play to your potential. just like Ale had mentioned, to the expectations of what you need to do in order to perform and continue. I have no doubt that Argentina can accomplish that task because of also the depth that they've showed last night. But yes, as a team, in order to continue that standard that you expect, you have to make sure that just because the talent or the opponent isn't quite of the quality that you are, that you continue doing what you're supposed to be doing in order to get further.
11:26So, yeah, it might be an easy bracket for them, but they have to be careful in those moments.
11:34Dan Thomas:What a beautiful summer it's been for Cape Verde, though. Now they get rewarded with Argentina to face the World Cup. One of the kind of feel-good stories coming out of this tournament in their first World Cup, how they started, Vazenia was the story sharing of match day one. And everything from here is a bonus for them. Being here was more than they could have expected. Now you come up against Lionel Messi and Argentina. Regardless of what comes of that game, I think Que Verde celebrates, and rightly so. Regardless of what comes out of that game? Yeah, regardless. Que Verde celebrates, regardless.
12:10Yes, I'm just saying. We know what's going to happen in that game. Well, I'm just saying regardless.
12:15Dan Thomas:But how wonderful to test yourself against Lionel Messi, who, as mentioned, did score in this game as well when you took at the longest scoring streaks in World Cup history. Leónel Messi with another record. He is sitting on top with seven goals. And we're going to send our Ali Krieger over to the bracket now. What could possibly go wrong? Listen, I'm not going to say anything because we've all got to do them today. But Ali, let's take a look at how things are looking for you right now. Yes, I'll be the first one up here to have this challenge. So round of 32, obviously in Boston, Germany versus Paraguay.
12:50I think Germany will take this one. And Paraguay, I don't think they cause enough issues for the U.S. And then France and Sweden. This is probably going to be a really difficult matchup. Obviously, two European powerhouses. But I think France, obviously, they are going to be huge for me all the way, hopefully, through the knockout stages, coasting. South Africa versus Canada. This is going to be a really difficult matchup. This is today, actually. Obviously, Canada, they've shown that, their physicality, and they can get on transitional moments. But South Africa, I think they've been building up ever since the first game that they lost to Mexico.
13:27But I still am going with Canada on this one. And Netherlands and Morocco, probably one of the toughest matches of this knockout stage, especially at the very beginning in the round of 16. But for me, it's going to be the Netherlands. I think they have such quality in the defensive structure that they need in order to get through. And here we are going down to the next set of teams. Hey, seamless. Beautiful. Beautiful transition. Thank you. Beautiful transition. Thank you. I'll be here for the rest of the show. Well, apparently. Do you want me to do your back? Okay. Moving on. Toronto, Portugal, Croatia.
14:05Obviously, the quality that Portugal have, it just hasn't been good enough for me. So, Croatia isn't going to win this game. And I want Modric to succeed. And then Spain and Austria. I think Spain, obviously, is going to take this one. And Lamine Yamal has been brilliant since he's been fit and healthy. So I think they're going to take that. United States, I have to go for the boys, obviously. And then Senegal, I think, are going to take it over. Oh, oh, oh. You skipped the United States. Ah! Ah! Yeah! America! America! Watch and learn. Watch and learn. Okay, we're moving on. In Houston, Brazil, obviously, Japan is one of the most technical teams in this competition.
14:54But Brazil, I think, has the individual quality to take this. You've got to get them over.
15:02And then I think Norway. I think Erling Haaland is going to be up top and be able to help his team be successful. Mexico, I'm rooting for Mexico. In Mexico City, I think the crowd is going to be behind them. It's going to be a tough matchup, but I think they're going to take in England. Even though Congo has been one of the brilliant Cinderella stories of this tournament so far, I think England is going to take this game. And we are moving on. Miami, Argentina, Messi all the way. You got to get a mover. There you go. You're getting the hang of it. I can't wait to remind you two. Egypt, I think Salah, for me, is just leading his team and wants this extremely.
15:48I think Switzerland and Colombia.
15:56I think because of last night, the urgency, the style of play and the performance for me, they've been incredible. So I'm excited to see them move on. Brazil, individual quality. K's going to be upset. Got to move, man. You know what? You're lucky I'm doing this. Argentina, of course. Messi's going to continue scoring goals and be brilliant. Colombia. You got to move them over. Argentina got to go. You got to go. Or is it whoever designed the bracket? That's a problem. That's a problem. I agree. So now, moving on. Ready? Oh, you didn't pop your leg. You didn't pop your leg. You didn't pop your leg.
16:41You're better. Right. Oh, boy. Matt, okay. All right, all right. Okay, okay, okay. I think friends. Listen. Netherlands, for me. Oh, why do we have to do this? I know. You put me first. And I think Senegal. What? What? What? Yes. What? America? Brazil, yes, got it populated. Can I move on? Yes. Thank you. If you must. Okay. France over the Netherlands. And then Spain over Senegal. Oh, man. I think in this first semifinal, England. You should do this for the rest of the hour. I do think England have more depth and quality than Brazil. So I'm going to move them over. And then Colombia and Argentina.
17:31I do think Argentina is going to be in this semifinal. Here we go. Here we go. Here we go. We're almost there. I mean, France for me, I always thought from the beginning of the tournament, they're going to take it to the final. They have the front six or seven players are incredible, the depth that they have. It's been really impressive. I know Spain, the possession-oriented style team, but I do think they're going to be in the final against an England this time is going to take it over Argentina. Oh, boy. Okay. Oh, don't break Kay's heart. Don't do it. Don't you do it. Don't do it. Don't do it.
18:06I'm such a Holise fan. I went to the England game yesterday, but I'm such a Holise fan. I think Fran's going to take it all the way. No, you did it.
18:16Dan Thomas:You broke her heart. We got there in the end. It will probably be a penalty shootout. We took the cynic route. We all need to rest now. There's more of that to come. We all fell with our brackets. Group L coming next.
18:37As you know, managing maintenance, repair, and operations is never easy. But for the ones who always rise to the challenge, Grainger has your back. From professional-grade products you can count on to fast, dependable delivery, they're there to help you keep things running smoothly. Plus, their technical product specialists are here to help answer your toughest questions. And because Grainger knows safety is always a priority, they're committed to being your partner in protecting both your people and your facilities. Call 1-800-GRAINGER, click grainger.com, or just stop by. In today's world, planning ahead isn't always top of mind, but not having life insurance can leave families facing difficult financial uncertainty during already emotional times.
19:16In many cases, loved ones are left managing expenses, debts, or long-term obligations without a clear plan in place. Life insurance is one of those ways to help provide financial security and support when it's needed most. That's where Ethos comes in. Ethos makes getting life insurance fast and easy. And it's 100 % online. You can get a quote in seconds, apply in minutes, and even get same-day coverage. There's no medical exam. You just answer a few simple health questions online, and coverage options are flexible, with up to$3 million available and some policies starting at around$30 a month.
Read the full transcript
19:52Ethos has also earned strong customer feedback with a 4.8 out of 5-star rating on Trustpilot, based on more than 3 ,000 reviews. Help protect your family with life insurance through Ethos. Get your instant free quote at ethos.com slash sports. That's E-T-H-O-S dot com slash sports. Application times and rates may vary.
20:16Dan Thomas:ESPN FC is brought to you by Tempur-Pedic, helping you get deep, undisturbed sleep. And Coca-Cola, always the real thing. England rounded out Group L with a 2-0 win over Panama to secure top spot in the group. Seven points for them. Croatia behind them with six points and Ghana booking their spot as well as one of the best third place teams. However, Thomas Tuchel has said that his side can get better. We saw another sluggish first half from England. He said that these players are used to these moments. They play Champions League and Europa League to the end. They know what it takes. We will step up.
20:57Dan Thomas:The bigger the games get, the bigger we will get. There is no problem going into a tournament like this. We have strong belief and trust in each other. It's important we keep believing in what we can influence and what we can improve. The most important thing is to not be afraid and be brave. Well, Ali Krieger was actually at the game yesterday to see England with her own eyes. Do you believe what Tuchel is saying? She wasn't here at work with you. She was supposed to be here earlier in the day. She did her best. I did my best. Thank you, Kay. it was a really great start I think but it reminded me of the game against Ghana where they just couldn't break down the defense and I think they're going to see a lot of that because now teams are taking advantage of that part of the game where they see that England's going to struggle I do think Rashford was brilliant I really loved seeing him live and seeing how active he was, he just was so willing to get on the ball and go 1v1 and create any opportunity that he could I think he has to be on the field in order for them to be able to continue down the knockout stages.
22:03And Kane scored a wonderful goal. Jude Bellingham showed up in the 10. I think he's been incredible. But, yeah, they have depth. They have quality. I think that is why they're going to make it through all the way to the final because of that. And I think they have a shared passion within the team. They have a belief in their resiliency that I don't think I see with anyone else. Have you seen what Ali's seeing? Not in a whole lot of detail. Listen, I think... You weren't there at the stadium, Seahawks. Oh, that's what it was?
22:35Dan Thomas:He was at the England-Gana game. I was at the stadium for England-Gana. So his judgment is right. Yeah, that left me jaded. So, listen, I get what Thomas Tuchel is saying because he's right. There's quality in this team and it can build into the tournament as it goes along. England topped the group. That was the first priority, which you do. Get out of the group, top the group. They've done that. I still think there are adjustments. Gordon on the left had not been good. Seeing Rashford operate against Panama, certainly was a step in the right direction. But a sack over Madwekes is another option that makes England better.
23:14But so far, it's been a pretty low bar. You mentioned the Ghana game where I thought England were desperately underwhelming. Very lucky to come out to that with a win. Despite the hurricane missed later on, there was the concert challenge that clearly was a penalty, in my opinion. And then while you get the win against Panama, it's Panama. And I don't think any team of any quality was getting the better Panama. So while it's a win and I guess it's an improvement in what happened against Ghana, it doesn't feel as convincing as some of the other favorites in this tournament.
23:55Dan Thomas:Now, Ali did mention Jude Bellingham. He played a key role in this victory for England yesterday, Ali. Yeah, and you want to see the very best from your best players. And I think we're getting close to that with Jude Bellingham. And they needed that from Jude Bellingham. His presence in the midfield and his willingness to run into the 18-yard box as another attacking player. His willingness to take players on in wide areas as he did for the goal by Harry Kane. And scoring big goals in big moments, which is what happened yesterday. The game wasn't exactly flowing for England at the time in which he scored the first goal.
24:26And then things kind of opened up for them and Kane scored the second. And now we have no doubt as to what England was going to do in this group and finish top of the group. That was, you know, it didn't feel all that great halfway through that second half. And to Thomas Tuchel's quote there, he might as well have given the microphone to Mario Suarez and have the same conversation we had about Spain yesterday. We have world-class players. They're going to get better. They're going to evolve in the tournament. Yeah, all right, great. But so is Spain, and so is Fran, and so is every other team that are saying, we're going to get better.
24:58We're going to improve. You're not the only one who's going to improve. All these teams that are top teams are going to look to improve. And if they do, then England still has to do a whole lot better than what they have done in the group stage.
25:10Dan Thomas:So as mentioned, Harry Kane struck again in this game and took with it another record. It was his 11th World Cup goal, more than any other England player has managed. He is England's top scorer at the FIFA World Cup, surpassing Gary Lineker. And there you see his goals. as we send now our own goal scorer today, Ali Moreno, over to his bracket. Where is that goal scorer? Let's see. What could possibly go wrong? All right, we got that right. Yeah, super. Okay. Absolutely, France. We have no discussion about that. Wow, heavyweight. Oh, Canada, for now, I'll go with you. Morocco, Netherlands. I could make an argument for Morocco, but why waste my time?
25:56Why waste anybody's time, to be honest with you? Oh, boy. Okay, we're going to go here. Did I get that right? Yes, I did. Portugal, somehow I still believe in you. That's because I don't believe in Croatia. Spain, I have to put you through because I have you winning the whole thing. Good luck with that. America! America! America. Number one, baby. We're number one. Belgium. We'll remind you of that. Okay, Belgium. Yeah, I guess. Lukaku is looking in some sort of shape. Not the right shape, but some sort of shape. Brazil is still going through. I think they're better than Japan. Norway, hey, they'll play the starters.
26:35That'd be great. That's going to be awesome. Mexico and Ecuador, first surprise here. Ecuador goes to Mexico City and wins the game. Because you know what? Altitude is not an issue. Altitude is not an issue for Ecuador. They play in altitude in Quito. So there you go, Mexico. Goodbye. Ciao. England, I believe in you. I believe in Bellingham. I don't believe in Tomasuko, but there you go. Who do we got here? Yeah, this story, this beautiful story of Cape Verde. It's over, Shaq. It's over. You can take Bocina and go home. I'm believing, Ali. How about Australia? Let's go. Oh, okay. Sure, why not?
27:11Why not? Do I have an argument for Egypt? I don't. So there you go.
27:15Dan Thomas:He doesn't want to argue with Joey Lynch. Switzerland. I'll pick Switzerland because then Stevie Nichols doesn't get mad at me. Colombia. There were something yesterday. I want to go to Colombia there. What do we got here? Am I doing this right? Yes, man. I'm telling you. I'm flying. Oh, this is a difficult one. Here we go, Ale. No, it isn't. Nine! Nine! Nine! Ah, boy. You're yelling. Goodbye. Goodbye, Canada. Goodbye. Oh, boy. It was a great story, but goodbye. Oh. Now what? Oh. España. Yes, stubbornly so. I'm going with España. No! Well, you know it. I'm gonna ignore the fact that the United States lost to Belgium in March 5-2 and it wasn't a competitive match.
27:59I'm gonna ignore that because America! America, baby. America. Wow. Did I get this right? Oh, man. Oh, Brazil. I still love Brazil. Oh, ah. Oh, boy. No choice to be made here. No choice to be made here either. Now what? No choice to be made here either. Vamos Colombia Vamos Colombia
28:29Dan Thomas:You're welcome that I showed you how to do this Exactly You know, you were the near post runner You know, first from post You sacrificed for the team Kriegs walked so you could run, Ale I've seen you run You just wait for me to get up there I don't think that what I do nowadays You can call running it's more of a waddle The dream is over The dream is over I cannot lie to the American people I cannot lie to the American people. I cannot lie to the American people. I can't do that to them. Goodbye, England. Oh, really? Yeah. You know what? Just because Kay's going to pick England, and she just talked about my running style, so there you go.
29:10You call it a waddle. Argentina. Well, she brought it up.
29:14Dan Thomas:More of a shuffle. Yes. It's effective. It gets there. Oh, this is difficult. Oh, boy. Oh, this is difficult. What am I going to do here? I picked Spain to win the whole thing. I picked Spain to win the whole thing. I'm stubborn. Yes, I know. I have a problem. I don't care. Vamos Argentina. Vamos Argentina. Vamos Argentina. And of course, if I pick Spain to win the whole thing, Spain wins the whole thing and breaks Messi's heart. That's it. There you go. Thank you. You're welcome, America. You're welcome. The really nice thing, Shepard, is that he didn't change his mind on his pre-tournament picks because that has happened more in World Cup history.
29:54Dan Thomas:I don't know who would do that, kid. On ESPN FC. Brazil, our face in Japan on Monday. We'll talk about that game next.
30:07Smalls here, if you're heading into summer without a medical emergency kit, you're taking a risk most people don't think about until it's too late. Summer colds can turn into sinus infections that last weeks, ruining your perfect vacation getaway. And when you're traveling, finding a doctor and a pharmacy, it's stressful. That's why I ordered a medical emergency kit. It's like having an urgent care and a pharmacy at home. It includes prescriptions like amoxicillin and generic Z-Pak to treat a wide range of illnesses. So if you wake up sick, at home, or on the road, you have what you need. No waiting for your doctor, no hours at urgent care, and no pharmacy lines.
30:41Also, no co-pays. Match your symptoms to the right prescription in your guidebook or call their telemedicine doctor. Start meds sooner and feel better faster. Every home needs a medical emergency kit, so order yours online in minutes. It's shipped right to your door. Save$45 with my promo code SMALLS at UrgentCareKit.com slash SMALLS. That's promo code SMALLS at UrgentCareKit.com slash SMALLS. Prescription required. Always consult your doctor to determine if this product is right for you. It's Charles Barkley here with Wayfair. Let me tell you, game day is serious business at my house. If I'm grilling, chilling, and watching hoops, my outdoor setup better be ready to play.
31:17That's what Wayfair wins. From patio seating and umbrellas to grills and grill accessories, Wayfair's got it all, and it shows up fast. I'm talking fast and easy delivery. So level up your grill game and your outdoor chill game and head to Wayfair.com to get your outdoor space ready for the season. Wayfair, every style, every home.
31:51Dan Thomas:Monday, Houston, Brazil taking on Japan in the round of 32, 1pm Eastern. Japan looking like a very organized unit, but Brazil did top Group C and are aiming high. Even so, Edim Latao said there is room for improvement.
32:11What do you think about it? How do you think about it? How do you think about it? I believe that's excellent. We are growing up in the competition. I think that each game we are evolving. I think it's clear for everyone. Since the first to the last one, I think that there was a huge evolution. And I think that's right. We could do it all, we could do it all. I think we did it all to play. I think that in the second game we are already a little more open. So I think that's right.
32:45Dan Thomas:Delighted to now be joined by Andre Cafori, ESPN Brazil journalist with us. Andre, you just heard what Militao had to say there. Do you agree with him that things are going to get better for Brazil still?
32:59Yes, thanks for having me. I agree with him totally. Brazil is expected to play better on Monday against Japan. That is better than the last time the win against Scotland in the last game of the group phase. because this has been the story so far after a first game that was very bad. In fact, the first 30 minutes against Morocco were atrocious, to say the least, but things have been getting better since then, step by step, and that is what is expected right now, because Ancelotti is trying to do something that is very difficult and is not common, which is to build a team from scratch during the group phase of a World Cup.
33:47And he's trying to do one step at a time. Last game against Scotland was a lot better than the first two. And they expect themselves to be better again against Japan on Monday in Houston.
34:00Dan Thomas:Andre, are the Brazilians happy with what they've seen from Vinny Jr. so far? I'm sorry? Are the Brazilians happy with Vinny's showings so far?
34:15I'd say the opinion is getting better each game because the impressions after the first one especially were very worrisome. Brazil was not a team. They looked like a group of players that were assembled in the morning of the game and then went out to play in the World Cup. So the system now, I think, is a lot better for a solid defense and step by step the players are more comfortable with their individual roles. and offensively things are getting better as well with more fluidity, especially from the midfield and the attacking players.
35:07Dan Thomas:Andre, can you talk to us a little bit about Vinicius Jr.? Do you like what you've seen? Yes, Vinicius is a very interesting case because in his career in the national team so far, he was very criticised for not being the guy. Okay, Neymar was playing and Vinicius is not a guy that is too flashy in the national team. He behaves differently when we compare him with what he does in Real Madrid, his club. But now the difficulties were so awesome for everybody since the first 30 minutes against Morocco. And Vinicius just rescued Brazil with a goal that he scored from nothing in the first half. And since that goal, he's been playing very, very well.
36:04He's making good runs, scoring a lot, making passes to his teammates. So we are seeing what we all thought that Vinicius was capable of doing with the Brazilian shirt.
36:18Dan Thomas:Great stuff, Andre. Thank you so much for joining us. And we look forward to that game between Brazil and Japan tomorrow in the round of 32. Yep, lots of games still to enjoy in the round of 32. Brazil against Japan, the first of them. Germany taking on Paraguay a little later after that. And then it's Netherlands against Morocco. But today it's Xhaka and his bracket. The moment we've all been waiting for.
36:49I won't be as good as Ali, but I won't be as bad as Ali. It's up to you to figure out which is which. First round, Germany over Paraguay. Paraguay done well to get this far.
37:01Dan Thomas:Good start. France over Sweden. I cannot see this as being much of a competition in all honesty. I've got Canada over South Africa, and I've got Netherlands in a tight one over Morocco. No, we go for that bracket. Yeah! Wow. I've got Portugal over Croatia. I've been more impressed with Portugal than some in the studio. Spain over Austria. I don't see that as being an issue. Nor do I see the United States over Bosnia being much of an issue. Here I go Belgium. Belgium. Sebel over Senegal. Sebelgium. Brazil over Japan. Andres Wright, Brazil are growing in this tournament. I've got a well-rested Norway over Ivory Coast.
37:48I have got Mexico over Ecuador. And I've got England over the Democratic Republic of Congo. Argentina over Cape Verde. Who will be heroes regardless? I've got Egypt over Australia.
38:07Dan Thomas:Regardless. I've got Switzerland over Algeria. and I have got the impressive Colombia over Ghana. Vamos, vamos. Yes, yes, yes, Xhaka. Yes, Xhaka. I'm proud of you. There's still time. This is where Germany's tournament comes to an end up against the very impressive France. I've got Netherlands over Canada. I have got Spain over Portugal. Only just Spain have to improve a lot themselves. and here I am going U.S. America, baby. U.S.A. America. See, we believe in America and we're not the Americans. The Americans, apparently, not believe in America. I'm not one to point fingers. We'll see. I'm not one.
38:53We'll see. Yep, she's right here. I'm going to go Brazil over Norway and improving Brazil. England over Mexico.
39:06Argentina over Egypt. and I'm going to go Colombia over Switzerland. Where am I? Right there, Shaq. Right here. Yes. Yes, Shaq. There you go. Yes, Shaq. I've got France over. France is just too strong. You're very aggressive how you work. You're almost punching the screen.
39:25Dan Thomas:Shaq is a little too strong on this bracket, to be honest. Well, I'm making sure I press it properly. Our producer does not like the joking. He says you need to keep going, Shaq. I've got Spain. I have got England over Brazil Do I have England over Brazil? Let's go England over Brazil Argentina over Colombia That will be a tight one Do I go there? There you go I've got France over Spain And a repeat of the 2022 final sees Argentina over England and then I have got France to win it all, getting revenge for three and a half years ago. Good job, Shaq. Good job. Good job. You overcame some things there, including the fact that the producer didn't believe in you.
40:20Yeah. Good job, Shaq. Well, I'll be honest. And Ali did not believe in you either. No, he did. I felt like she was rooting against you.
40:26Dan Thomas:She was just rooting against you. Yeah, I just wanted to. You know why Shaq has got a little pep in his step, don't you? Oh. About to meet Jurgen Krupp yesterday. Oh. His new best friend. Hello. We'll hear more from that next. Hello.
40:44If you've shopped online, chances are you've bought from a business powered by Shopify. You know that purple ShopPay button you see at checkout? The one that makes buying so incredibly easy? That's Shopify. And there's a reason so many businesses sell with it. Because Shopify makes it incredibly easy to start and run your business. Shopify is the commerce platform behind 10 % of all e-commerce in the U.S., from household names like Mattel and Gymshark to brands just getting started. Shopify gives you a leg up with hundreds of beautiful, ready-to-go templates to express your brand style and forget about the code.
41:21Tackle all those important tasks in one place, from inventory to payments to analytics and more. Spread your brand's word with built-in marketing and email tools to find and keep new customers. And did I mention that iconic purple ShopPay button that's used by millions of businesses around the world? It's why Shopify has the best converting checkout on the planet. Your customers already love it. If you want to see less carts being abandoned, it's time for you to head over to Shopify. Sign up for your$1 per month trial and start selling today at shopify.com slash network. Go to shopify.com slash network.
41:58Shopify.com slash network. Luster Olney here for La Quinta by Wyndham. Summer means travel, and for a lot of people, that includes their four-legged MVP. Mine is a yellow lad named Quinny. But finding a hotel that actually welcomes pets can feel like striking out. At La Quinta by Wyndham, pet-friendly stays are part of the game plan, so you don't have to leave your best travel companion behind. You can bring them along for every inning of the trip, because the road is better when the whole team's together, And when you book at LaQuinta.com, you can earn Wyndham Rewards points on your qualified stays along the way.
42:37Tonight, LaQuinta, tomorrow you shine. Terms and conditions apply.
42:43Dan Thomas:So here's how things are looking when it comes to the odds to win the World Cup as we head into the round of 32. Argentina's stock is rising. France still sit top of the table. it's then Spain and England level in third spot and Brazil behind them but what does Jurgen Klopp think is going to happen and how has he enjoyed the World Cup so far well there was only one man to ask him very young Shaka his one yeah let me ask about well certainly one of the surprises to me in this tournament US I thought the US were outstanding against against Paraguay equally so in a different way against Australia.
43:25I read nothing into the Turkey results. What have you made of their tournament so far? It is the best team USA ever had. You look where the players play. You have a striker who plays in France, played in England, you have a winger who plays everywhere with Pulisic. You have the last line, plays or played in the Premier League midfield, plays or played in the Premier League or in Italy, you never had a team like that. So that's number one. You have a sensational coach with Maurizio. Yeah, you have a good team. But the pressure will... I don't want to make it... you want to jinx it, but the pressure will grow.
44:03Yeah. So it's great right now in all these countries. In the USA, really good. Canada, good. Yeah. Mexico, good. They're all in very important for the tournament. Norway, good. They changed eight or nine times or ten times and still played good football. Belgium, really good. Last chance for a great generation. Switzerland, good. So many teams are good and they all can win. Let's see who will get through. Holland, really good. I don't know. I can't tell you who will go through. Spain really good, but against Carverte, it was a surprise that they didn't find a solution in that game. But Carverte surprised all of us.
44:50So, that's the tournament and that's the best what you can say about the World Cup. Why would we know today, there are five rounds to go, who will win the World Cup? That would be really boring if we would know it already. Very true. We wouldn't have to watch the games. Now, we watch the games, I speak about it, you probably have to speak about it as well. and in the end, we celebrate a deserved world champion, I'm pretty sure.
45:18Dan Thomas:Shaki, you're best friends now. Yeah. I'm meeting him for some breakfast later. Oh, yeah? Yeah. Did your knees have to be so close to each other? I mean, did you have to? You know, he's taller than I expected, I'll be honest. You got nervous because I saw in the pre-interview that you dropped papers. Yeah. You're a goalkeeper. Your hands are supposed to be the good ones, and you're dropping papers everywhere. Have you ever seen me goalkeeper, Ali? Yes, I have. I have scored on you. I have scored on you, Shaq. But have you ever heard Ali Krieger speak German? Maybe she should have gone for us. Yeah.
45:51Yeah.
45:51Dan Thomas:Some bisschen diet. Yeah. Super. Tell us a little bit more. What else did you get to talk to with Yelda Klaff? I spoke to him about a lot, including his role with Red Bull, that organization now and all the clubs that he's involved with and the work that he's doing. We spoke about Germany and what that might look like going forward. It was all-encompassing, Kay. Really? Yeah. That's all I've got for you. That's all you've got for me? Oh, my goodness. Can't reveal any more than that. Are you back with us, slumming it? Can't wait to listen to this interview now. You really sold it, Shaq. You just wait.
46:29He spoke about the U.S. the way he did. I think that was... Did you like to hear that? I really like to hear that. Yeah, he spoke about the U.S.
46:35Dan Thomas:the most, it felt like. Then he mentioned 47 other teams. Yeah. He said they were good. Everyone's good. Everybody's good. We're all good. Honestly, it was my takeaway. But I like Marth. You know, he went in-depth on the U.S. Yeah, he did. We heard Sydney about the player personnel. He was very noncommittal in a lot of things. You know what's happening here? What's that? Kate doesn't want to do the bracket, and so she's just... stringing this conversation along. It's like, let this time go by, so we run out so that she doesn't have to do a bracket. I was wondering what was going on. I was like, what was this?
47:07Dan Thomas:Nobody needs to see me do the bracket. I do. Yeah, I do. I do. Nobody needs that. That's not what we're looking for, okay? That's what I'm looking for. Did you get any inkling that Jurgen Klopp might be back managing soon? No. No? I asked him. Back the other way. Yeah, but I asked him about that. If he missed being on the sidelines, if he missed working with a team, he's like, no, I'm too busy right now. I just don't have time to miss any of that. And no suggestion at all that he wants to be in charge of a club or indeed a national team. Oh, that feels like a shame to have his club back in a role like that.
47:45What is he enjoying doing? What is he enjoying? Because he's kind of overseeing all things Red Bull. He's traveling a lot as far east as Japan, of course, and Red Bull have their club, which is where we were in New York, New Jersey. So just kind of overseeing all those teams, everything that goes into those teams, not just first teams, but from youth teams and academies come forward.
48:10Dan Thomas:Look at Shaq talking about what his best mate's up to. He's having a great time. Yeah, he's doing great. I'll speak to him later. My guy, Jürgen. We'll be great. We're going to have some breakfast. Okay. Yes, Jürgen Klopp. More on that interview over on our social channels. Be sure to check it out. Shaka and Klopp. And the Tartan Army, time is off. We wave goodbye to them. What a tournament these fans had. We wave goodbye to Steve Clarke too.
48:39Dan Thomas:ESPN FC is brought to you by Fairlife. Enjoy great taste and nutrition with Fairlife Ultra Filtered Milk. ESPN has you covered for NWSL Action Boston Legacy against the Bay FC coming up Sunday, July 5th, noon, Eastern.
49:01Dan Thomas:Pitch preview is brought to you by DraftKings Sports. And so we are into the round of 32 and kicking it off to South Africa, Canada. You can leave the desk and come over here. Let's see if I can actually make the case. I might decide not to. I'm still a little bit disappointed. Okay, guys, who have we got? Oh. Easy for me, Canada. Why? I've not been impressed with South Africa. They've done well to get this far. Canada as a host nation. I just feel that they have more to play for. The corner energy, they have motivation around this. And as I say, I just have not been at all impressed with South Africa.
49:44I think it'll be an easy day for Canada. I'm going to make this more about Canada and South Africa. regardless of what South Africa haven't done or have done in this competition. I've been impressed with Canada's intensity, their energy, the way that they play together, how they press the ball together. And there is momentum with Canada. And they've been productive in the attack that sometimes is not quite the case for them. They've been able to score goals. I'm going to take Canada, South Africa, too limited in the attack for me. I agree. I think for me, it's going to be Canada. They have more quality.
50:14They have more motivation. They are also, like Shaka said, the host nation. and I also think that on transitional moments they can be more dangerous than South Africa hasn't really been impressive for me in this tournament. Well, I'm annoyed by you all, so I'm going to go for South Africa. You're annoyed because you refused to do your bracket?
50:31Dan Thomas:All picking on me because I didn't have to do my bracket because the producers said no. South Africa have surprised a few. You were hosting the show and in the last segment you made it as long as possible so that you didn't have to do this. So this is today's game coming up and this kicks off the round of 32 and then tomorrow we will have Brazil against Japan and it goes on and on and we will be back as course to talk a lot more. But one thing we do have to say is that we're saying goodbye to the Tartan Army. Oh my goodness. How amazing has this fan base been here in the United States, Ali? I think they've changed a lot of the view of how we can partner with other countries.
51:11Oh, wait. The jugglers. It's been unbelievable to see just how everyone's kind of coming together in support of the World Cup and sharing that passion. It's beautiful. It is really, really wonderful.
51:24Dan Thomas:I love to see it all. Every day there was just new content checker and now we're not going to get any more of it. I live just outside Boston and who, Boston as a city, have just embraced everything about the Tartanami, everything about Scotland, with good reason. They have been an absolute breath of fresh air, especially when it comes to football fandom and how that kind of looks to the outside world. But then there's a reality to all of this. And while I'm a beacon of positivity, on the field, it didn't quite translate. That's not right. And so therefore, Steve Clarke, he gone. Yes. And it's not a surprise to anybody.
52:01The reality is that there was more expected from Scotland. And if only the product on the field could match the fandom of the field, we would be having a different conversation.
52:11Dan Thomas:Okay, we're going to have a different conversation now because not only has Ali Krieger been at the England game, just, you know, milling about. Oh, wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute. Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh. Okay, okay. Hello. I made it to the plate. Yeah, that's a good start. Oh, yes. Yes. No, that's all right, that's all right. That was very good. You struggled with the bracket, but you got it right there. You kneel up, Ali. It's an actual wind-up. Tell us about it. How was the experience? It was so great. I wanted to stand on the mound. They were like, do you want to stand on the grass?
52:51I said, no. I'm going to stand on the mound. I'm an athlete. I am. It was great. Awesome. Thanks for having me, Matt. So you put yourself out there, and you did it, right? You pushed yourself. That's right. Unlike other people that did not put themselves out there. You stepped out of your comfort zone. My bracket took way too long for her to even have them all. Thanks, Ella. Don't take the blame for her. Don't take the blame for her, Ali. You are far too kind. Go ahead, host. Take us out.
53:16Dan Thomas:Okay. That's all we've got time for on today's show. Because you took up all the time elsewhere. Except for me, I'm going to take a couple of days off if you don't mind. That's what you always say.
53:38This 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+. this video will help us with about at least 5 foot there's a website where the mesh Hashimoto's
From the publisher
The FC Crew react to the latest action in the final round of the World Cup Group Stage as Portugal finish second in their group, while Messi and Kane break records. The crew previews the path's for Portugal, England, Argentina and Brazil and give their full predictions for the World Cup Knockouts.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices