The Footglish Podcast: Learn English with Football

40 Episodes
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By: Zdenek Lukas

On the Footglish Podcast each week, join Zdenek, a passionate English teacher and a huge football fan, as we dive into the latest football news while helping you improve your English skills. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or an English learner eager to boost your listening skills, Footglish offers a fun and engaging way. Each week, we break down football matches of Zdenek’s or his guests’ favourite teams, all while teaching you practical English that you can use on and off the pitch.

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Awful Awful AWFUL Czechia
#14
Yesterday at 5:14 PM

⚽ Czechia 1-1 South Africa | World Cup 2026 Reaction In this episode, I rant about what may have been the worst match of the World Cup so far.

Czechia took the lead and had a poor South African side exactly where they wanted them, but instead of pushing for a second goal, they sat back, defended deep, and invited pressure. In the end, they were punished with a late equaliser.

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My appearance on Make Football Great Again

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When Curaçao Equalised Against Germany
#13
Last Tuesday at 8:34 PM

⚽ Curaçao at the World Cup!

In this episode of the Footglish Podcast, I speak with a Curaçao fan who was born in the Netherlands but proudly supports Curaçao because of his family roots.

We discuss: What it means to support Curaçao at the World Cup

The unforgettable moment Curaçao equalised against Germany

The amazing Netherlands - Japan game

The emotions, celebrations, and hopes of a smaller football nation on the biggest stage

A fascinating conversation about football, identity, and World Cup dreams. 🏆 Have you e...


The Real Reason Czechia Lost to South Korea
#12
06/13/2026

In this episode, I break down Czechia's 2-1 defeat to South Korea and explain why the Koreans deserved the win. We look at what Czechia got wrong, what South Korea did better, and what the result means going forward.

I also discuss: Mexico's victory over South Africa and the chaos of three red cards

Canada and Bosnia & Herzegovina sharing the points in a 1-1 draw

The USA's impressive 4-1 win over Paraguay

🏆 The World Cup is underway, and there's already plenty to talk about!

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S03E11 England World Cup Preview
#11
06/08/2026

In this episode of the Footglish Podcast, I chat with Paul, an England fan, about England's chances at the World Cup 2026.

We discuss Thomas Tuchel, Harry Kane, England's key players, the team's strengths and weaknesses, and the new World Cup format and rule changes.

🏆 Can England finally bring football home?

Paul's YouTube channel

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My appearance on Make Football Great Again

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S03E10 Football Collocations Gone Wrong
#10
06/04/2026

Do you say give a goal or make a goal? Can the goal be called a gate? Can you save a goal?

In this episode of the Footglish Podcast, we look at 9 football collocations that English learners regularly make mistakes with. Using examples from international football and the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, you'll learn the natural expressions that commentators, journalists, players, and fans actually use.

Whether you're following England, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, France, or your own national team, these collocations will help you understand football coverage and discuss matches with confidence. 🎙️

Perfe...


S03E09 Czech Republic World Cup Squad REVEALED
#9
05/23/2026

The Czech Republic have announced their preliminary World Cup squad — and there are already a few big talking points. 🇨🇿

In this episode of Footglish, we break down the latest call-ups, discuss the most surprising inclusions, and look at which players missed out on the squad. Who deserved a place? Which decisions could divide fans? And which players still have work to do before the final 26-man squad is confirmed?

We also explore useful football English expressions connected to squad announcements.

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My appearance on Make Foo...


S03E08 Arsenal End 22-Year Wait for the Title
#8
05/21/2026

🎙️ Arsenal are champions of England for the 2025–26 season — has it sunk in yet?

In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Cathal from Ireland 🇮🇪 — an Arsenal supporter and friend of the podcast — to talk about a historic season for Arsenal F.C..

We discuss what it feels like to finally see Arsenal back on top, whether this title win changes the way fans view Mikel Arteta, and what could happen in the upcoming UEFA Champions League Final.

⚽ In this episode:

Arsenal crowned champions of EnglandHas the achievement really sunk in yet?The emotions of Arsenal...


S03E07 The Night Czech Football Lost Its Mind
#7
05/10/2026

What should have been a night of celebration turned into one of the darkest moments in Czech football history.

In this episode of Footglish, I break down the shocking scenes from the Prague derby — the pitch invasion, the violence, the flare attack, the abandonment of the match, and what it all says about football culture in Czechia.

Was this simply crowd madness… or a complete failure of organisation, security, and leadership?

And most importantly — what happens next?

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S03E06 THE WAIT IS OVER… CZECHIA ARE GOING TO THE WORLD CUP🔥
#6
04/03/2026

My guests this time are Honza Popek — my cousin and a sharp football mind — and David Nyč, a reporter, commentator, presenter of ONE PLAY TV, and co-author of the podcast Druhý Dotek Zdeňka Folprechta. 🎙️

In this episode of Footglish, we dive into a historic moment as Czechia finally books their place at the World Cup — and yes, we properly celebrate it too.

We discuss:

⚽ Czechia’s long-awaited qualification and the key factors behind this success,

⚽ The captaincy shake-up — why Tomáš Souček lost the armband and whether Ladislav Krejčí has stepped up as...


S03E05 Ireland vs Czechia: World Cup Play-off Draw Reaction
11/22/2025

My guest this time is Cathal, a passionate Irish football fan. 🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Cathal to unpack one of the craziest INTERNATIONAL breaks Ireland and Czechia have had in years.

We discuss:

⚽Ireland’s unbelievable last-minute comeback, rising from the dead to beat Hungary and squeeze into the World Cup Qualifier playoffs,

⚽ Troy Parrott’s outrageous FIVE-goal heroics — the man simply refused to miss,

⚽Czechia’s underwhelming group campaign, plus the tense fallout between Souček, Coufal, and the Czech ultras,

⚽ The draw: Czechia vs Ireland — who...


S03E04 Slavic Teams Collecting Points in the World Cup Qualigfication
#4
09/10/2025

My guest this time is Tomasz, a Polish football fan. 🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Tomasz to look at the results of the Slavic teams, including Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

We discuss:

Slovakia’s shocking win over Germany,Poland’s revival under their new coach, with Lewandowski back leading the line,How Czechia fared against MontenegroUkraine's match against France

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S03E03 Szoboszlai’s Rocket Leaves Arsenal Stunned at Anfield
#3
09/01/2025

My guest this time is Paul, a Liverpool fan. 🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Paul to break down Liverpool’s 1–0 win over Arsenal at Anfield, where Szoboszlai’s free-kick wonder was the difference.

We discuss:

Whether Florian Wirtz has truly hit the ground running at Liverpool,If this was an ugly match to watch despite the big occasion,Just how good Szoboszlai’s free kick really was,And the big question: are Liverpool genuine title favourites this season?

Paul's YouTube channel

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S03E2 Man United's Defeat - Performance More than the Result
#2
08/20/2025

🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Leontes from the Mr. Henriquez YouTube channel to reflect on Arsenal’s win over Manchester United and discuss what it might mean for United moving forward.

We discuss:

Whether performance is more important than the result (Man United beaten, but arguably played well),Which Manchester United players are now seen as deadwood,Which of the new signings impressed,Whether Arsenal are becoming increasingly cynical in their approach,And whether being out of Europe this season might actually benefit Manchester United (with 9 other Premier League teams competing in Europe, i...


S03E01 Premier League is Back
#1
08/12/2025

🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Ben from the To the Point English with Ben YouTube channel to look ahead to the brand-new Premier League season.

We discuss:

Our predictions for the title winner,Who we think will make the top four,The teams most likely to be relegated,Our picks for the Golden Boot winner,West Ham United’s prospects and key players.

Plus, plenty of football banter, bold predictions, and a touch of English language insight along the way.

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S02E45 A Polish Baník Fan at the 2–2 Clash with Legia
07/30/2025

🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by a young Baník Ostrava supporter from Poland who travelled to Ostrava to watch the thrilling 2–2 draw against Legia Warsaw in person.

We discuss:

His unique journey as a Polish fan of a Czech club,

What it’s like supporting Baník from across the border,

The electric atmosphere at the stadium and the intense fan culture,

A breakdown of the key moments from the dramatic match,

The rivalry between Baník and Legia—and how it played out on...


S02E44 Czech League Round 1 - Already Off Script!
#44
07/22/2025

🎙️ In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by former footballer, journalist, and commentator Štěpán Hájek to break down all the drama from Round 1 of the Czech First League.

We discuss:

The upsets that caught everyone off guard,Michal Beran’s standout performance for Jablonec,Sparta Prague’s worrying lack of signings,The costly error by Slavia’s Tomáš Holeš,A couple of absolute screamers,And Bohemians’ shock win over Baník Ostrava.

Plus plenty more analysis, insight, and a few hot takes along the way.

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S02E43 Chelsea Stun PSG in the Club World Cup Final
#43
07/16/2025

In this special episode, I sit down with Marvin, a passionate Chelsea supporter, to celebrate and dissect Chelsea's remarkable triumph in the 2025 Club World Cup final against PSG.

Widely regarded as underdogs, Chelsea defied all expectations with an outstanding performance that left football fans stunned.

Video from this episode will be available soon.

Achievers Chamber - online group meetings for high-level English learners

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S02E42 Lewandowski Gets Poland Coach Fired
#42
06/17/2025

In this episode, I talk to my Polish friend Tomasz about the explosive situation in the Polish national team. Did Robert Lewandowski really get the coach fired during the World Cup qualifiers? We dive into this highly controversial story and discuss how important Lewa is to the fans and the entire nation — a footballing icon now at the centre of a major scandal.

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S02E41 Spurs Finally Do it! - Europa League Glory
#41
05/25/2025

In this episode, I’m joined by David, aka Jenks, to relive Tottenham Hotspur’s stunning win over Manchester United in the Europa League final. We break down the match, reflect on the key moments of Spurs' season, and discuss what this long-awaited trophy—Tottenham's first since 2008—means for the club and its loyal fans. Whether you're a die-hard Spurs supporter or just love football drama, this one’s for you.

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Achievers Chamber - online group meetings for high-level English learners

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S02E40 Champions Again: Liverpool’s Big Night at Anfield
#40
04/30/2025

It's done!!! Liverpool have reclaimed the Premier League title — their second triumph in just five years.

In this episode, I’m joined by Paul, a passionate Liverpool supporter, as we dive into the Reds’ road to glory, their title celebrations at Anfield, and what this means for the club's legacy.

Paul's YouTube channel

Achievers Chamber - online group meetings for high-level English learners

(includes a regular Sunday 7 pm chat with Zdenek and other football fans in a private group)

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S02E39 Magic Under the Lights: Arsenal's UCL Night
#39
04/10/2025

In today’s episode, Cathal and I discuss Arsenal’s stunning win over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinal. Declan Rice scored two incredible free kicks, and the atmosphere was unforgettable. Arsenal fans were over the moon, and no one expected a result like this. We break down the key moments, standout players, and what this means for the rest of their season.

Cathal's YouTube channel

Cathal's Podcast (Spotify)

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Achievers Chamber - online group meetings for high-level English learners

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S02E38 Manchester United Hold Arsenal in an Improved Display
#38
03/13/2025

In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Leontes, the man behind the Mr. Henriquez YouTube channel, an English teacher from the Netherlands, and a passionate Manchester United fan. We break down United’s improved performance in their 1-1 draw against Arsenal, discussing key moments from the match and what this result means for Ruben Amorim’s side.

A big focus of our conversation is Bruno Fernandes—his role as captain, his development over the years, and whether he’s the right leader for United going forward. Tune in for a deep dive into the game, insightful...


S02E37 Arsenal 0-1 West Ham - Smash and Grab at the Emirates
#37
02/26/2025

Arsenal’s title hopes took a serious hit as West Ham pulled off a shocking 1-0 win at the Emirates! In this episode, Teacher Zdenek is joined by Clive, a passionate Hammer and the man behind Green Street Elites on YouTube. Clive regularly appears on other football channels, and today, he’s here to revel in West Ham’s stunning victory.

With Arsenal desperately trying to close the gap on Liverpool, this was supposed to be a routine win—but West Ham, sitting in 16th place, had other plans. The shock was so big that even Declan Rice, on...


S02E36 Liverpool Drop Points in the Final Goodison Park Derby
#36
02/16/2025

Everton clawed back a crucial point in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Liverpool in what will be remembered as the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, packed with twists, turns, breathtaking moments, and no shortage of controversy—including red cards that only added to the spectacle.

To break down all the action, the drama, and what this result means for both sides, I’m joined by Paul, a passionate Liverpool supporter, and his cousin Ste, a die-hard Evertonian. They’ll be sharing their thoughts on the key moments, the heated exchan...


S02E35 It Can't Get Any Worse for Tottenham
#35
02/12/2025

In this episode of the Footglish Podcast, I sit down with my longtime friend Ondra, with whom I played football for about seven years.

As a passionate Tottenham fan, Ondra brings plenty of insight into our discussion, where we take a deep dive into Spurs' season, analyzing their performances, key moments, and ongoing challenges. We also speculate on the future of manager Ange Postecoglou, discussing whether he is the right man to take the club forward. Additionally, we address the criticism surrounding Tottenham's goalkeeper, Antonín Keeper, weighing in on whether the scrutiny is justified or overly h...


S02E34 Arsenal Edge Past Wolves, Unfair red card for Skelly
#34
01/31/2025

In this episode of the Footglish Podcast, Nrup and I finally meet face-to-face in Da Nang, Vietnam to catch the Wolves vs. Arsenal match together.

We dive into a lively discussion about the game, including our shared frustration over Michael Oliver’s controversial decision to hand Skelly a red card. Despite that moment of drama, Arsenal’s victory was a crucial result, and we break down how the Gunners pulled off this important win. Tune in for match insights, passionate reactions, and the excitement of our in-person podcast session.

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S02E33 North London is Red, Kinsky's tough debut in the Premier League
#33
01/17/2025

This time on the Footglish Podcast, Nrup and I dive into Arsenal's impressive victory in the North London Derby. We break down the standout performances, including the Czech goalkeeper's impact and Spurs' newest signing, Antonín Kinskly, and much more.

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Achievers Chamber - online group meetings for high-level English learners

(includes a regular Sunday 7 pm chat with Zdenek and other football fans in a private group)

SUPPORT the FOOTGLISH PODCAST: https://herohero.co/thrivingptfzcqbttaflf

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S02E32 Spurs Suffer Misfortune vs Newcastle, Antonin Kinsky Joins the Squad
#32
01/07/2025

In this episode, I sit down with David to discuss Tottenham's recent defeat to Newcastle, delve into Ange Postecoglou's fiery post-match conference, and analyze the implications of their latest signing, Czech goalkeeper Antonín Kinský.

There is no video of this episode

Achievers Chamber - online group meetings for high-level English learners

(includes a regular Sunday 7 pm chat with Zdenek and other football fans in a private group)

SUPPORT the FOOTGLISH PODCAST: https://herohero.co/thrivingptfzcqbttaflf

Watch my other show Heroes of...


S02E31 Horror Show for the Hammers, Liverpool's Tails Are Up
#31
01/01/2025

In this episode of Footglish, I’m joined by Tony, a passionate West Ham fan, as we dive into their recent 0-5 defeat to Liverpool. We discuss the current state of the team, including players like Lucas Paquetá, Jarrod Bowen, and Vladimir Coufal, as well Summerville and Fulkrug.

We also explore the challenges facing coach Julen Lopetegui, and what the future holds for the Hammers.

Don’t miss this insightful and emotional take on all things West Ham! ⚒️

Tony's YouTube Channel

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S02E30 Liverpool Stun Spurs in a 9-Goal Spectacle
#30
12/24/2024

Three Liverpool players may be nearing the end of their contracts, but that hasn’t stopped them from delivering incredible performances on the pitch. In a stunning display, Liverpool triumphed over Spurs with a commanding 6-3 victory away from home. It’s the perfect Christmas gift for Reds fans everywhere, including today’s special guest, Paul.

Paul's Facebook group

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CHRISTMAS QUIZ - answer 5 easy questions to win a perfect Christmas present!

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S02E29 Last-Minute Drama in the Manchester Derby - United Triumph & Pep Stunned
#29
12/17/2024

Manchester United are back, and so is Martin Johnston from the Rock & Roll English podcast!

On this podcast, we dive into United's dramatic victory in the Manchester derby and unpack Guardiola's surprisingly poor recent performances.

Martin's Podcast

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S02E28 Man United's Struggles Continue, Ruben Amorim's Impact, Viktoria Plzen Next
#28
12/10/2024

Manchester United suffered another setback, losing to Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford 3-2, with familiar issues once again resurfacing.

Is Ruben Amorim the right manager to turn things around, or did they make a mistake by not keeping Ruud van Nistelrooy?

Plus, a look ahead to United's next challenge against Viktoria Plzeň.

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S02E27 Liverpool Humble Manchester City in a Dominant Display
#27
12/02/2024

In this episode, I sit down with Simon, a passionate Liverpool fan, to discuss his team’s outstanding performance against Manchester City. We dive into Guardiola’s reaction to fans chanting “You’re getting sacked in the morning” and explore Liverpool’s exciting prospects in the title race.

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S02E26: Arsenal's Solid Display & Man City's Shocking Slump
#26
11/27/2024

In this episode, Nrup and I delve into Arsenal's recent clash against Nottingham Forest, analyzing the impact of Ødegaard's return. We also discuss Manchester City's shocking run of poor form, Liverpool's chances of clinching the title, and the current state of the Premier League.

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S02E25 Czechs Defeat Georgia to Earn Promotion to League A
#25
11/21/2024

In this conversation, my friend Tom—who's becoming quite the expert on Georgia—and I discuss the final game of Nations League Group B between Czechia and Georgia. The Czech Republic secured an important victory, earning promotion to League A. This win carries significant benefits and marks a major achievement for the team.

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S02E24: Points Split – Chelsea vs. Arsenal + Season Forecast
#24
11/12/2024

In this week’s episode of the Footglish podcast, I chat with Marvin, an English teacher from the UK living in Mexico. Marvin is a passionate Chelsea fan, so we dive into all the drama of the recent London derby between Chelsea and Arsenal. We also explore how the Premier League season could unfold and where Chelsea might land by the end. Tune in for some lively football talk, predictions, and insights!

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S02E23 Things are Going Wrong at West Ham United | Will Lopetegui Get a Sack?
#23
11/05/2024

West Ham United have been struggling in the Premier League recently, and on this podcast, I discuss it with Clive, a well-spoken, passionate West Ham supporter.

We delve into the reasons behind the club’s recent issues, dissect their latest match against Nottingham Forest, and consider the growing possibility that manager Julen Lopetegui might be on the way out. Our conversation also touches on Tomas Soucek’s role within the squad, the situation of Vladimir Coufal, and more.

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S02E22 Erik Ten Hag Sacked, Who will Replace him? | Manchester United beaten by the Hammers
#22
10/29/2024

For the first time ever on the Footglish Podcast, I'm joined by two people: the returning guest Cathal and his friend Brian, a Manchester United fan. We'll be discussing Man United's collapse in their game against West Ham, including a controversial VAR decision, the sacking of United's manager Erik Ten Hag, and potential replacements.

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S02E21 Spurs Shine with a Clear Identity in Dominant Win Over the Hammers
#21
10/21/2024

In this episode, my friend Jenks and I break down Tottenham's dominant performance against West Ham, reflect on Spurs' impressive season so far, and dive into Ange Postecoglou's distinctive playing style.

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S02E20: Prague to Wroclaw – My Epic Experience Watching Czechia Play
#20
10/16/2024

In this episode, my guests Honza, Kyrylo and I discuss our experiences watching two Nations League games live in the stadium.

First I went to Prague to see the Czechia- Albania game with my cousin, and then 3 days later I travelled to Wroclaw (Poland) for the Ukraine - Czechia match.

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