The Cooligans

On this episode of The Cooligans, everything is going wrong at Real Madrid. Missed red cards, Mourinho is bringing screenshots to the press conference ... and Mbappe has a new shoe deal?

From there we break down Cavan Sullivan breaking yet another record and pose the question, how has MLS development changed to the point where it was the best move for Sullivan to stay in Philly, rather than jumping to Europe sooner.

To round out the show we break down the on field beef between Leo Messi and Don Garber.

All this and...

On this episode of the Cooligans, Christian and Alexis break down Poch's 'Vacation' quote and give their top 5 players who deserve their first USMNT call up.

From there we dive into Leo Messi and his new coach at Inter Miami and pose the question... Should Messi be able to hand pick his own coach?

To round out the show we check out the latest headlines from around the NWSL, including Barbara Banda getting a MASSIVE payday. 

All that and more on this episode of the Cooligans

00:00 Show Rundown

01:10 Jozy b...

On this episode of The Cooligans, Alexis and Christian break down Cavan Sullivan, who is starting to become a superstar right before our eyes.

From there we take a trip around Europe to see how the Americans are fairing across the pond.

To round out the show we look at the multiple VAR controversies over the weekend in the Premier League.

00:00 Show Rundown

01:42 Cavan Sullivan bags a brace vs. San Diego

28:10 Americans in Europe

44:00 VAR Controversies.

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On this episode of the Cooligans, Alexis Guerreros and Christian Polanco break down Wednesday's UCL results and pose the question... Why don't attacking players want to sign for Arsenal?

From there we dive into the Ballon D'or nominations which include Harry Kane and lack a plethora of NWSL players

To round out the show, we hit all the Rápido Reactions from Antoine Griezmann dying in the heat, to MLS breaking the bank on players.

All that and more on this episode of The Cooligans.

00:00 It's our 1000th episode

03:50 W...

Alexis & Christian are joined by journalist and author Joey D’Urso (“More Than a Shirt”) to reveal how global politics and big money collide on the front of your favorite football shirts. From the wild story behind Arsenal’s JVC era to clubs with sponsors tied to oil states, crypto, local businesses and everything in between, the conversation uncovers just how much history (and drama) is stitched into every kit.

(2:35) Joey's book "More Than a Shirt"

(8:08) Lessons learned from writing the book

(11:02) Reconciling club fandom with club business

(18:58) Women's soccer shirt sponsors...

Christian & Alexis dig into the chaos of the European transfer window and try to make sense of why Folarin Balogun’s move to Everton collapsed at the last minute. They also explore Premier League spending and how other European teams can attempt to compete financially.

Up next, the pair react to the news that MLS teams are back in the U.S. Open Cup and what that might indicate for the future of soccer in the United States. Could promotion/relegation finally come to the beautiful game in America?

Finally, Christian & Alexis break down the UE...

On this episode of The Cooligans Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down Leo Messi announcing he is retiring from international duty. Is it for real this time?

From there we dive into US Soccer taking a more active role in youth development. Is this a first step on the way to real change or just a gesture?

To round out the show we discect the latest in the ongoing battle between UEFA and Gianni Infantino. 

All that and more on this episode of The Cooligans.

00:00 We're Back!

06:30 Messi a...

Live from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros broadcast immediately following the MLS All-Star Game. The hosts react to Major League Soccer securing back-to-back victories over the Liga MX All-Stars and discuss the electric fan atmosphere inside the venue. Between unexpected live broadcast interruptions from stadium staff and behind-the-scenes window adjustments, the guys break down the game's highlights, performance stats, and overall fanfare.

David Gass from SoccerWise joins the suite to deliver postgame analysis and debate how to revamp the All-Star showcase. Together, they pitch wild concept changes—including 5v5 la...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros return to process the full-force return of Major League Soccer following the World Cup break. Christian kicks off the show with a hilarious and relatable personal story about taking his 3.5-year-old son to his first competitive soccer class 1v1s. The hosts then dive into the latest blockbusters across MLS, analyzing Casemiro’s 1-0 debut for Inter Miami as a physical midfield anchor, Antoine Griezmann’s immediate scoring spark for Orlando City, and Christian’s in-person breakdown of Robert Lewandowski’s debut for the Chicago Fire against NYCFC.

Next, Angel City FC forward...

Fresh off their 11-city Breakaway Tour, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros return to the studio to process the post-World Cup soccer landscape. Christian kicks off the episode with an unbelievable travel horror story about a chaotic flight delay from Miami to Dallas involving an intoxicated passenger, an unruly accusation, and an emergency flight attendant swap. The hosts then dive into a blueprint for the future, detailing radical ways to overhaul US Soccer and turn the USMNT into legitimate contenders for the 2030 World Cup—from ending pay-to-play under Arsène Wenger and merging CONCACAF with CONMEBOL to creating a 50-state "Sta...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros cap off their 11-city Breakaway Tour with an electric live reaction show immediately following Spain’s 1-0 World Cup Final victory over Argentina. The hosts dissect a defensive masterclass from La Roja, who neutralized Lionel Messi and held Argentina to zero shots on target across 120 minutes of play. The guys break down the game's turning point—Enzo Fernández's second yellow card for dissent—and Ferran Torres' dramatic extra-time winner just 30 seconds into the second half of extra time. They also marvel at Spain’s historic achievement of conceding just one single goal across eight Wor...

In the final daily live episode ahead of the historic World Cup final, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down the highly anticipated match between Spain and Argentina. The guys discuss the latest news regarding White House officials meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to address potential health dangers from Canadian wildfire smoke in the New York-New Jersey area. They analyze tactical keys to the final, debating whether Spain's possession-heavy dominance can stifle the emotional, chaotic intensity of Lionel Messi and an unstable but miraculous Argentinian squad.

The hosts welcome New York World Cup Czar Maya Handa...

Live from Atlanta, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros deliver an immediate, high-energy live reaction show following Argentina's thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over England in the World Cup semifinal. The hosts launch directly into a scathing critique of England manager Thomas Tuchel, placing 100% of the blame squarely at his feet for executing an incredibly cowardly low-block game plan after Anthony Gordon put the Three Lions up 1-0. They highlight an embarrassing statistic showing that England averaged a meager 12% possession between Gordon's opening goal and Lautaro Martinez's dramatic match-winner.

The guys break down the pivotal tactical adjustments and execution...

In this electric live reaction episode of The Cooligans, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros broadcast straight from Dallas, Texas, to break down Spain’s masterclass 2-0 victory over France in the World Cup semifinals. The guys dissect an astonishingly clinical Spanish performance that completely neutralized the French powerhouse, restricting them to zero shots on target in the first half and a measly 0.3 XG over the entire match. They evaluate the major fallout of the result, including the end of Didier Deschamps’ historic cycle as France manager, a devastating non-contact back injury to William Saliba, and how Lamine Yamal’s unassu...

In this electric, late-night episode of The Cooligans After Dark, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros fire up the microphones live from Miami to unpack a chaotic day of World Cup quarterfinal action. The guys kick off with Argentina’s high-stakes 3-1 victory over Switzerland, a match far tighter than the final scoreline suggests. They dive headfirst into the massive refereeing controversy surrounding Breel Embolo's game-altering second yellow card for simulation. Spurred by the new "mistaken identity" VAR protocol, the hosts engage in a fierce debate over whether video review belongs anywhere near yellow cards, while praising a clutch, world-class br...

In this high-energy live reaction episode of The Cooligans, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros broadcast live from a remarkably humid Miami to break down Spain's dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the World Cup quarterfinals. The guys dissect an unpredictable game of two halves that saw a cagey opening explode into a chaotic, vibe-driven second period. They analyze Belgium's impressive defensive resilience and Charles De Ketelaere’s shocking header that broke Spain's clean-sheet streak, all before a devastating gluteal injury forced world-class Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois out of the match.

The hosts heap praise on Spanish mi...

In this energetic live reaction episode of The Cooligans broadcasting straight from a venue in Boston, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros deliver immediate analysis following France’s clinical 2-0 victory over Morocco in the World Cup quarterfinals. The guys break down a complete, poised, and deeply unified French squad that currently looks a notch above tournament heavyweights like England and Argentina. They marvel at the incredible maturity and selfless play of Kylian Mbappé, whose dynamic run set up Ousmane Dembélé's fifth goal of the tournament to lock down the victory.

The hosts dive into the jaw-d...

In this emotional and packed episode of Cooligans Daily Live, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down the devastating aftermath of the USMNT's early exit from the World Cup following a crushing defeat against Belgium. The guys dive deep into the mixed post-match reactions from the squad, parsing Christian Pulisic’s controversial, nonchalant injury comments against Tim Ream’s raw, tearful vulnerability. They debate whether Pulisic truly possesses the leadership qualities and emotional relatability required of "Captain America" after a highly disappointing tournament performance where he failed to register a single shot on target.

Sparks fly as Alex...

The USMNT's World Cup run comes to a crashing, embarrassing halt after a 4-1 dismantling by Belgium in the Round of 16. Hosts Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros try to process a complete tactical and fundamental capitulation on home soil. Despite winning the possession battle with 57%, the Americans looked paralyzed by fear and completely disconnected on the pitch. This allowed a heavily rotated Belgian squad playing without Kevin De Bruyne or Jérémy Doku to exploit amateur defensive errors from start to finish.

MLS on Apple TV analyst Taylor Twellman joins the studio to deliver a brutal re...

The Iberian Derby did not disappoint as Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros bring you an immediate live reaction to Spain's dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal in the World Cup Round of 16. La Roja's impenetrable defense locked down yet another opponent, extending their incredible clean-sheet streak and booking a spot in the quarterfinals. The hosts heavily criticize Portugal manager Roberto Martinez for his lack of tactical bravery, particularly his decision to relegate a dangerous Rafael Leão to the bench while forcing an immobile 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo into the full 90 minutes. On the flip side, they heap praise on Spain's M...

The USMNT finds itself at the center of unprecedented World Cup drama as Folarin Balogun's red card suspension from the Bosnia and Herzegovina match is overturned, making him fully available to face Belgium. Hosts Christian and Alexis dissect the shocking reports indicating that Donald Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to intervene , prompting a highly critical social media response from Sepp Blatter. The guys debate whether playing Balogun compromises the integrity of the tournament and if the right move for the spirit of football is actually to leave him on the bench.

To help process a...

Welcome back to Cooligans Daily Live! With America’s 250th birthday right around the corner, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros are back in the studio to dissect the biggest storylines of the 2026 World Cup. The major talking point is the USMNT's upcoming massive Round of 16 clash against Belgium. The guys dive deep into how Mauricio Pochettino should handle the devastating absence of Folarin Balogun following his controversial red card. They debate whether Ricardo Pepi is the plug-and-play solution or if a wild false-nine experiment utilizing Christian Pulisic or Weston McKennie is the tactical key to unlocking a struggling Belgian si...

The USMNT is headed to the Round of 16, and Brian Dunseth joins Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros to break down everything from the Americans' 2-0 win over Bosnia. What did Mauricio Pochettino get right? How should the U.S. prepare for Belgium after the Red Devils' dramatic comeback against Senegal? We also discuss whether the Americans have what it takes to make an even deeper run at the World Cup.

Elsewhere, England survived another scare thanks to Harry Kane's clutch performance against DR Congo. Is Kane the best striker in world football right now? We debate...

The USMNT keeps its World Cup dream alive! Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to the Americans' 2-0 victory over Bosnia & Herzegovina to book a place in the Round of 16, where Belgium awaits. Joined by Taylor Twellman, the guys break down Malik Tillman's brilliant technical display and spectacular free-kick goal, explain why Tyler Adams remains the heartbeat of this team, and debate whether Folarin Balogun's red card was one of the harshest decisions of the tournament. They also discuss what Ricardo Pepi's opportunity means as he prepares to lead the line against Belgium.

The conversation continues...

The USMNT's biggest match of the tournament is here. Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down the Round of 32 showdown against Bosnia & Herzegovina, discussing the tactical keys to victory, how Bosnia is likely to approach the match, and what Mauricio Pochettino's side must do to reach the quarterfinals. The guys also make their final predictions before saying goodbye to Washington Post soccer writer Steven Goff. Then they react to Norway's historic first-ever World Cup knockout victory and debate whether Erling Haaland's five goals in three matches make him the Golden Boot favorite. Can Norway really shock Brazil next?

The knockout stage is here, and it's time for the biggest test yet. Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros preview the USMNT's Round of 32 clash against Bosnia & Herzegovina, reveal their expected starting XIs, and debate which American player is under the most pressure. Will Christian Pulisic finally deliver his signature World Cup moment? Can Matt Freese prove he belongs? Plus, the guys make their final score predictions and highlight the Bosnian players who could spoil the Americans' tournament.

Germany's World Cup nightmare continues. After another shocking knockout exit, the boys ask why one of international soccer's greatest...

Canada has officially made history. Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Canada's first-ever World Cup knockout victory, debate whether Jesse Marsch has already exceeded expectations, and ask if this magical run can continue against the winner of Netherlands vs. Morocco. They also grade Marsch's tournament so far and discuss what this moment means for Canadian soccer moving forward.

The pressure is now squarely on the USMNT. After cruising through the group stage, Christian and Alexis explain why none of that matters unless Mauricio Pochettino's side delivers in the knockout rounds. They break down the Americans...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Colombia's hard-fought 0-0 draw with Portugal, a result that secures first place in the group for Los Cafeteros while leaving Portugal searching for answers ahead of the knockout rounds. The guys break down the biggest moments from the match and discuss why Colombia continues to look like one of the tournament's most balanced teams heading into the Round of 32.

Next, The Cooligans examine Portugal's disappointing performance and ask the biggest question surrounding Roberto Martínez's side: can Portugal realistically win the World Cup with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the line? A...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react live to France's emphatic 4-1 win over Norway to clinch the top spot in Group I. Even without facing Norway at full strength, Les Bleus looked every bit like one of the tournament favorites as they controlled the match from start to finish. The guys break down France's dominant display and discuss what it means heading into the knockout rounds.

Next, The Cooligans reveal their Player of the Match, with Ousmane Dembélé earning the honors after a brilliant performance. Christian and Alexis also debate whether Kylian Mbappé will leave the...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros preview one of the marquee matches of the World Cup group stage as France and Norway battle for the top spot in the group. Can Erling Haaland and Norway pull off a statement win against one of the tournament favorites, or will Kylian Mbappé once again steal the spotlight? The guys break down the key matchups, debate which superstar will have the bigger impact, and get you ready for their live reaction show immediately following the final whistle.

Next, The Cooligans react to Mauricio Pochettino's comments following the USMNT's loss to Türk...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to the USMNT's 3-2 defeat to Türkiye in their final World Cup group-stage match. With knockout-round qualification already secured, the guys debate whether fans should be concerned by the loss or simply chalk it up to squad rotation and experimentation. They break down the biggest moments from the match and explain why Sebastian Berhalter earned their Player of the Match honors despite the disappointing result.

Then, The Cooligans are joined by USMNT midfielder Gianluca Busio to get a player's perspective on the team's mindset heading into the knockout rounds. N...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Brazil's impressive 3-0 victory over Scotland and another standout performance from Vinícius Jr., who became the first Brazilian since 2002 to score in every group-stage match of a World Cup. The guys discuss whether Carlo Ancelotti has Brazil heating up at exactly the right time and what Neymar's return could mean for the Seleção heading into the knockout rounds. With a potential path through Japan and the winner of Ivory Coast vs. Norway, is Brazil quietly becoming the team nobody wants to face?

The Cooligans then turn their att...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick off the show with six spicy World Cup predictions that could either make them look like geniuses or get them roasted by fans. Alexis predicts that Canada will fail to beat Switzerland, Kylian Mbappé will break the World Cup scoring record and England will advance despite failing to hit top gear. Christian counters with bold calls of his own, including Cape Verde reaching the knockout rounds, Uruguay crashing out of the tournament and Lionel Messi starring in Argentina's final group-stage match.

Next, The Cooligans preview the USMNT's final group-stage game against T...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to another historic milestone for Lionel Messi as he becomes the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. The guys debate whether Messi still needs another World Cup title to put the GOAT debate to bed once and for all, and whether Kylian Mbappé—already with 16 World Cup goals at age 27—has a realistic chance of chasing down Messi's record before this tournament is over.

Next, The Cooligans are joined by legendary former USMNT head coach Bruce Arena. Bruce discusses whether this current American side is the strongest in program history, expla...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick off the show with six spicy World Cup takes, headlined by the belief that Mauricio Pochettino has permanently changed soccer in America. The guys discuss how the USMNT's success and Pochettino's mentality have altered expectations around the national team and share several other bold predictions and overreactions from an unforgettable tournament so far.

Next, The Cooligans turn their attention to Portugal, who desperately need a result against Uzbekistan to keep their World Cup dreams on track. Christian and Alexis debate which player will be most important for Roberto Martínez's s...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Mauricio Pochettino's challenge to American fans: "Why not us?" With the USMNT already through to the knockout rounds, the guys debate whether the United States can actually win the World Cup and break down what would need to happen for Pochettino's side to make a truly historic run. Has the mentality around American soccer changed forever, or are expectations getting out of control?

Next, The Cooligans celebrate one of the stories of the tournament as Curaçao battle to a stunning draw thanks to Eloy Room's unbelievable 15-save performance—the...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react live to the USMNT's 2-0 victory over Australia that officially sends the Americans to the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. CBS Sports analyst Taylor Twellman joins the show to break down the performance and explain why expectations have now changed for Mauricio Pochettino's side. Taylor shares why he believes it's "quarterfinals or bust" for the USMNT, rates Pochettino's tournament so far and discusses whether the defense remains the team's biggest concern despite dominating Group D.

Next, the guys reveal their Player of the Match selections and explain why Alex...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros are joined by former USMNT defender Jimmy Conrad to preview the United States' crucial World Cup clash with Australia. The crew breaks down the keys to the match, debates whether Christian Pulisic should risk playing with his calf injury and discusses who could step in if the captain is unavailable. They also analyze what tactical approach Australia is likely to take against Mauricio Pochettino's side and what the Americans must do to secure another three points.

Next, The Cooligans recap a dramatic day for CONCACAF nations. Canada routed Qatar 6-0 to put...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros preview the United States' crucial World Cup showdown with Australia and reveal their ideal starting XI for Mauricio Pochettino's side. The guys discuss which USMNT players need to raise their level, highlight the Australian stars capable of causing problems, and give their predictions for one of the biggest matches of the group stage as the Americans look to continue their strong start.

Then, former Wrexham goalkeeper Mark Howard joins The Cooligans to react to England's entertaining 4-2 win, the controversy surrounding Dominik Livaković's penalty save, and Vozinha's heroic performance against Spain. M...

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Lionel Messi's historic hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory and discuss what it means for his final World Cup. With Messi now tied for the most World Cup goals ever, the guys debate who had the best opening performance of the tournament: Messi, Kylian Mbappé or Erling Haaland. They also discuss Christian Pulisic's calf injury and whether Mauricio Pochettino should protect his captain against Australia or trust him to lead the United States once again.

Next, The Cooligans welcome Ben Fawkes for another World Cup betting segment. The crew breaks d...