Club and Country
From Aston Villa to the Arch
After a come-from-behind friendly draw with Aston Villa, Nashville SC turns its attention back to the league schedule and a date with St. Louis City SC.
How did NSC approach the Villa match, and what did we learn about NSC? A brief San Diego postmortem The numbers behind St. Louis's struggles How does Matt Corcoran's loan benefit him and the club? Joe Willis returns homeClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
A Six-Point Week Fuels the Supporters' Shield Chase
Nashville SC won two games two very different ways, earning six points against Columbus and Toronto. What will it take to extrapolate their success into a Supporters' Shield run? And can they sustain their strong run of form in San Diego Friday night?
How NSC won in two completely different ways Keys to recent defensive success The biggest question NSC needs to answer to win a trophy Projections for the final 10 matches Getting to know San DiegoClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
A Messi End to the Streak
Nashville SC's 15-match unbeaten run in all competitions ended at the hands of Messi and Inter Miami Saturday in South Florida. Now, another big six-point contest against Columbus looms, followed by a visit from Toronto.
What was the biggest culprit in the Miami defeat -- fatigue, careless play or Miami's quality? BJ Callaghan discusses Joe Willis's uncharacteristic mistake The club advances to its first U.S. Open Cup semifinal The biggest stats and best moments from NSC's club-record win streakClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Down to Ten; Up to Second
Nashville SC beat first-place Philly Saturday despite losing Jonny Perez to a red card and playing down a man for 27 minutes. Now, the Boys in Gold stare Leo Messi in the face this weekend after a chance to advance to its first U.S. Open Cup semifinal Wednesday against D.C. United.
Was this the best win in club history? How Nashville SC got the job done despite being down a man What kind of statement does this send to the rest of the league? Analyzing the match's crucial officiating decisions How much should BJ Callaghan rotate for...Top Spot is Within Reach
Nashville SC hosts Philadelphia Union Saturday with a chance to take the lead in the Supporters' Shield standings. A 1-0 win over DC United extended the club's unbeaten streak to 11 league matches and 13 in all competitions.
Observations from NSC's businesslike win in the nation's capital The Boys in Gold have already surpassed last year's points tally. What does BJ Callaghan think about that? Sam Surridge by the numbers: why his production might be sustainable Getting to know debutant Alan Carleton Philly preview Mailbag: Is it time to prepare for life without Walker Zimmerman?Club & Country is sponsored...
Making a Shout for Supporters' Shield
Nashville SC is unbeaten in 10 MLS matches following a 3-2 win at New England Wednesday.
Are the Boys in Gold legitimate Supporters' Shield contenders? What has been the key to Sam Surridge's league-leading goal tally? The unsung hero of recent action Wes's favorite player gets an All-Star nod Previewing DC UnitedClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
The Decision, Episode 5: Decision Day
Braden Gall is ready to choose his Premier League team. After a three-step evaluation process, five choices remain:
Spurs Brighton Arsenal Fulham Manchester CityOn the decisive episode of The Decision, Braden makes his call.
The Decision is presented by M.L. Rose.
The Decision, Episode 4: The Pitch
Braden Gall is almost ready to choose an English Premier League team. Next up, it's time to analyze the action on the field.
Which clubs have iconic tactical approaches that transcend managers and players? Who has the most exciting budding talent? Recommendations from Clay Trainum (Everton) and Valair Shabila (Arsenal) Braden cuts his list to fiveBe sure to catch the first three episodes in the series!
Introduction The Place The PrestigeClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
The Decision, Episode 3: The Prestige
440 Sports proprietor Braden Gall is choosing an English Premier League team. Wes Boling and Steve Cavendish have walked him through the EPL's geography and stadiums. Now it's time to dig deeper into prestige: culture, history and ownership.
Who has the coolest kits and best songs? Relating EPL history to SEC football teams There are no GOOD owners...but who are the worst? Recommends from Finn Breland and John Glennon (Liverpool), Kevin Wisniewski (Brentford) and Paul Kuharsky (Chelsea)Be sure to catch the first two episodes in the series: the introductory show and The Place.
Club...
The Decision, Episode 2: The Place
Braden Gall is ready to choose a Premier League club. His first step: the setting.
On episode 2 of The Decision, Braden and soccer sherpas Steve Cavendish and Wes Boling evaluate the EPL's best communities and stadiums, from the seagulls of Brighton's south shore to the streets of cosmopolitan London, from dueling cathedrals in Manchester to a bandbox in Bournemouth.
How important is location? Tony Husband recommends a dark horse on the south coast Who has the Fenway Park of the EPL? Wrigley Field? Shea Stadium? Daniel Ryan makes his case for Fulham Braden makes his first...The Decision, Episode 1: Braden Wants to Choose an EPL Team
It's time for Braden Gall to make a decision.
A lifelong soccer fan who played as a kid, Braden is steeped in the Beautiful Game. But there's one thing he's never done: adopt a Premier League team.
This month, that changes. Club and Country co-host Wes Boling, Nashville Banner editor Steve Cavendish -- and you! -- are here to help Braden make the call.
On the introductory episode:
Why does Braden want to do this? Steve and Wes explain their backgrounds What are Braden's selection criteria? Jonathan Shaffer's recommendation: Tottenham HotspurNo Pity for Orlando City
A heavily rotated Nashville SC team bounced Orlando City from the US Open Cup Wednesday after a stagnant draw against DC United the prior weekend.
Is this the deepest team in NSC history? Wyatt Meyer's under-the-weather banger Ahmed Qasem makes his case for a starting role D.C. draw -- any concerns, or just tired legs? Why has Toronto struggled so badly?Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Capitalizing on a Crucial Home Stretch
Nashville SC is now the most prolific home team in MLS after beating New York Red Bulls 2-1 to rise to fourth in the Eastern Conference table.
How did NSC finally break through for its first win against Red Bulls? A compelling stat about Hany Mukhtar's emergence Patrick Yazbek finds the scoresheet How to rotate and prioritize as DC and Orlando loom in the next few days Love and support to La Brigaga de Oro and our fellow members of the NSC communityClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
A Massive Homestand Looms
Nashville SC took a point in Atlanta and advanced in the @opencup. Now, an inviting homestand awaits. How can the Boys in Gold capitalize on the opportunity? Wes and Tim discuss the recent matches, then set expectations for a triad of home contests against Charlotte, Red Bulls and D.C. Plus, how should NSC rank the U.S. Open Cup on its list of priorities?
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
The Best Performance in NSC History?
Nashville SC drubbed Chicago Fire 7-2 Saturday, setting a club scoring record and becoming the most prolific attack in the Eastern Conference.
Was this the best NSC match in history...or was it even its best against Chicago? Sam Surridge -- much ado about nothing? Hany returns to doing Hany things Why the Man of the Match was someone who didn't even make the scoresheet Position battles shaping up all over the pitch Previewing Atlanta UnitedClub & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Matchday Companion: Fire Preparation + Arsène Wenger Interview
Nashville Soccer Club, losers in three of four, seeks to rekindle its momentum with a home match against Chicago Fire. We get you ready for kickoff, then catch up with legendary Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger for his perspective on the Club World Cup, for which Nashville is a host city in June.
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
A Late Break Finally Goes Nashville's Way
Nashville SC avenged two late losses with a 90th-minute win over Real Salt Lake to elevate them to sixth in the Eastern Conference table.
How does BJ Callaghan feel to finally be on the right side of a late winner? Was it a deserved win, or was a draw a fairer result? Dan Lovitz's unconventional hat trick Assessing Jeisson Palacios's start in place of Walker Zimmerman Previewing Seattle SoundersClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
A Promising Losing Streak?
Nashville SC will be disappointed to drop consecutive matches to Cincinnati and Charlotte. But are there signs of possibility amidst the dry spell?
One of the best halves of the season...wasted The impact of Walker Zimmerman's shocking injury How can NSC compensate for the captain's absence? Is the rebuild coming together more quickly than expected? Previewing Real Salt LakeClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Going Streaking and Looking for More
Nashville SC seeks its first three-match league win streak since 2022 after a shellacking at Philadelphia Sunday. The 3-1 win showcased a blossoming attack and sets up a showdown with winless Montreal at GEODIS Park Saturday.
This was the best win since...? Sam Surridge is mixing it up in the final third Hany Mukhtar gets off the mark in stylish fashion Is Ahmed Qasem outrunning the Gass Theorem? Previewing Montreal A glimpse at HuntsvilleClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Off the Mark, On to Philly
Nashville SC earned its first win of the season against Portland Saturday. Now the Boys in Gold head to Philly for a showdown with the hottest team in MLS.
Assessing the first true glimpse of Nashville SC 2.0 The best attacking performance since...? Ahmed Qasem stars in his first start Eddi's move to the middle pays off Two missed penalties...was it weird that Surridge took the second? Previewing PhillyClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
Can Nashville Stand Tall Among the Timbers?
Nashville SC suffered its first loss of the season Saturday, a 2-0 setback at New York Red Bulls. Wes and Tim analyze the defeat and ask early questions about the team's trajectory.
Why New York was the worst possible team for NSC to play early in the season Was the issue against Red Bulls the plan or the players? What happens first: NSC beats Red Bulls or the Titans make the playoffs? A big three-point opportunity against Portland Saturday night in Nashville Reflections on Darren Powell, the club's new academy directorClub and Country is sponsored by...
Matchday Companion: Nashville Seeks First Win Against Red Bulls
Nashville SC travels to New Jersey Saturday for its road match of the season, a visit to New York Red Bulls. Wes gets you ready for the match, complete with audio from NSC Manager BJ Callaghan and goalkeeper Joe Willis.
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
A Draw Dominated by Debutants
Nashville SC opened its season with a scoreless draw with New England. Wes and Tim analyze what they liked from the Boys in Gold, what needs to improve and what to expect from match No. 2 in New Jersey.
The most encouraging moments from the opening match Three unexpected debuts, and what Corcoran, Meyer and Qasem might bring to the club What we learned about NSC's attacking approach Was Hany Mukhtar offside? A glance at Red Bulls Most interesting matches elsewhere in MLSClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. For in-depth coverage...
Matchday Companion: Nashville Opens 2025 Against New England
Nashville SC opens the 2025 campaign against New England Saturday night at GEODIS Park. Club and Country gets you ready for kickoff with insight from manager B.J. Callaghan, gold nuggets about the matchup, and a projected starting XI.
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Matchweek 1! Factors That Will Define NSC's 2025 Success
What are the elements that will determine Nashville SC's success in year one of the BJ Callaghan era? As match one arrives against New England this weekend, Wes and Tim explore NSC's 2025 success factors.
New signings! Assessing Qasem and Corcoran's potential impact Compensating for early injury concerns in midfield and up top What will shape the club's performance in year one under the new manager? Our match 1 starting XI A glimpse at the RevsBehind the Scenes of a 3-0 Friendly Win
Nashville SC cruised past Lexington 3-0 in its only friendly at GEODIS Park. What did we learn from the performance? And what did the manager and players say afterward?
Fluidity in attack, especially on the right side Sam Surridge strikes three times -- are he and Hany due to bounce back? Where do Shaffelburg and Tagseth fit in the attacking setup? Goals and storylines for the rest of preseasonClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Biggest Position Battles? BJ Callaghan Weighs In
Nashville SC is building toward the 2025 season with a win against the U.S. U-20 Men's National Team and a scoreless draw with Charlotte. As the preseason enters its second stage, Wes and Tim break down the tightest position battles and give a feel for how the club will approach its attacking and defensive identities.
Assessing BJ Callaghan's lineup decisions so far Most interesting comments from the gaffer Who will start at right back? NSC reserves are making movesClub and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Randall in the Wind
Nashville SC parted ways with MLS original Randall Leal during a busy preseason stretch that included several signings, as well.
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose.
Midfield Blockbuster Escalates 2025 Countdown
Nashville SC made a major trade for the MLS Cup MVP as it reworks its midfield in preparation for the 2025 season. It also scuttled two major contributors, with more potentially to come.
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose as part of the 440 Sports Network.
The Most Important Offseason Yet
Nashville SC enters the roster-building phase of its most important offseason since its expansion year.
What do Tim and Wes think of NSC's roster decisions? Farewell to Anibal Godoy and (probably) Dru Yearwood The profile of new signing Edvard Tagseth What can we expect BJ Callaghan to change in his first full season?
It's Time for a Pre-Postmortem
Nashville SC conceded three second-half goals to fall 4-3 at home to D.C. United Wednesday. Wes and Tim attempt to explain the loss before turning their attention to a broader analysis of the B.J. Callaghan tenure to date.
Club & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. For in-depth coverage of the Boys...
A Window of Opportunity
Nashville Soccer Club is in its best form since early summer, and the Boys in Gold are closing in on playoff position with four matches left in the season.
Club and Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
Talking with Nashville SC's New Manager
New Nashville SC Manager BJ Callaghan introduced himself at a press conference Friday. Now, the club prepares to open his era with a Leagues Cup match against Mazatlán. Wes spoke with the new gaffer and NSC leadership about his hire. Now, Wes and Tim break down early success metrics and preview his Leagues Cup debut.
Club & Country is sponsored by M...
Our First Questions for the New Manager
Nashville SC is enduring its longest losing streak in club history, a five-game stretch in which the club has scored just three goals. Wes and Tim analyze the futility, then look forward to what the Boys in Gold hope are brighter days.
How can the club escape its historic losing streak? Our first questions for B.J. Callaghan Most important priorities for the new manager Is a new central mid on the way?Club & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris Tap of the Week is Chasing Rainbows.
Callaghan is Nashville SC's Man
Nashville SC has hired U.S. Men's National Team assistant coach B.J. Callaghan as its next manager. Wes and Tim analyze the hire by exploring:
Club & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris tap of the week is Mood Ring: Tropical. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
Finally Streaking Again
Nashville SC beat Toronto FC and NYCFC to climb to seventh in the table in a six-point week. Wes and Tim discuss whether the run of success is sustainable or fluky.
Club & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris Tap of the Week is Tunnel Vision. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
Manager Rumblings in a Two-Match Week
Is Nashville SC on the doorstep of hiring its next manager? What should it expect to get out of a busy week against Toronto and NYCFC? Wes and Tim break it all down.
How can NSC finally get past its Red Bulls futility? Why B.J. Callaghan fits NSC's managerial profile so well Following the club's international players into Copa AmericaClub & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris Tap of the Week is Double Homestyle. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
Second Half Preview
Nashville SC has 18 MLS matches left this season, and 11 of them are on the road. Wes and Tim prep for the second half by asking pivotal questions, such as:
Who is the most important player not named Hany? Over/under on how many goals Mukhtar will score? The first transfer will be at which position? Who will be NSC's next manager?Plus, the guys preview the Red Bulls match.
Club & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris tap of the week is King Kaiju. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold...
Top Criteria for the Next Manager
Nashville SC dropped a 2-1 home match to the Wooden Spoon leaders Saturday. Now, the Boys in Gold enter a bye week and the international window clinging to a playoff spot and looking for the next manager.
What are Wes and Tim's most important criteria for the next gaffer? Wes's favorite candidate for the job How does NSC survive the international window? Was this the worst loss of the season?Club & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris Tap of the Week is Pep Talk. For in-depth coverage of the Boys...
Return to Normalcy: Nashville Beats Cincy
Nashville SC beat FC Cincinnati Wednesday for their first road win of the season. It's also the first win of interim coach Rumba Munthali's tenure.
A comprehensive back-to-front look at the performance behind the victory What is Munthali doing tactically to elevate the squad? Gold Nuggets: One big reason behind a strong defensive run of form How Teal Bunbury set Hany Mukhtar freeClub & Country is sponsored by M.L. Rose. The Bearded Iris Tap of the Week is Surfing. For in-depth coverage of the Boys in Gold, visit ClubCountryUSA.com.
