About this episode

The episode provides a comprehensive preview of the 2026 World Cup, focusing on the opening match and key players.

The 2026 World Cup starts here! Well, in Mexico City as co-hosts Mexico take on South Africa. Join Adam Leventhal, Jay Harris and Cerys Jones as they give you the lowdown on everything you need to know ahead of the tournament getting underway. Jack Lang reflects on Gianni Infantino's press conference on the eve of the tournament, while Felipe Cardenas gives us the lowdown on what to expect from Mexico, before we analyse their bright-young hope, Gilberto Mora as part of The Athletic's Stars of Soccer! Access to all of The Athletic's World Cup coverage is free via our app during the duration of the World Cup! Host: Adam Leventhal With: Jay Harris and Cerys Jones Featuring: Jack Lang and Felipe Cardenas Executive Producer: Guy Clarke Producers: Mike Stavrou and Grayson Moody Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Host: Adam Leventhal

Guests: Jay Harris, Cerys Jones

Topics covered

• 2026 World Cup
• soccer
• tournament preview
• Mexico
• Gianni Infantino
• young players
• Stars of Soccer

Keywords

• 2026 World Cup
• Mexico
• South Africa
• Gianni Infantino
• Gilberto Mora
• soccer
• tournament preview

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Athletic

Places: Mexico, South Africa, Mexico City

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• Will the USMNT ever produce a global superstar? · June 12, 2026 · 40 min
• Will the World Cup rip-off pay off? · June 10, 2026 · 45 min
• Who will actually win the World Cup? · June 9, 2026 · 45 min
• David Ornstein's World Cup transfer watchlist · June 8, 2026 · 38 min
• Emma Paton joins The Athletic FC Podcast for The World Cup · June 7, 2026 · 1 min

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