Inside American Soccer with Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos react to the USMNT's impressive 2-0 victory over Australia and the tactical decisions that made the difference. The guys explain why Mauricio Pochettino's move to pair Ricardo Pepi alongside Folarin Balogun opened up the attack, allowing Balogun to thrive once again. They also discuss why Sergiño Dest's unpredictability makes him a nightmare for defenders, how Alex Freeman continues to cement himself as a future star for the national team, and the latest on Christian Pulisic's recovery.

With the U.S. already clinching first place in the group, Tom and Tab debate w...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos give the full scouting report on the USMNT's World Cup showdown with Australia on Friday. Are the Americans in danger of overlooking the Socceroos after their dominant opening win? The guys break down Australia's defensive approach, the counterattacking threats that caused problems for Türkiye, and the best ways for the U.S. to unlock a disciplined back line. Tab gives his honest assessment of the matchup, including the one pass he believes will decide the game.

Then we go inside one of the most important matches in U.S. Soccer history. T...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos react to best night for United States soccer in very long time with the 4-1 win over Paraguay to start the World Cup. We have the latest on Christian Pulisic's health, and why Tab is concerned about the U.S. superstar after his early substitution. 

Tom and Tab praise Mauricio Pochettino's tactics and give credit to Folarin Balogun for his incredible finishing. Tab explains why Tyler Adams played "the perfect game" and how Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie performed a midfield "masterclass" vs Paraguay. 

Tab considers possible changes to the St...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos give the full scouting report on Paraguay ahead of the USMNT's Group D opener on Friday night in Los Angeles. They break down Paraguay's strengths, the key players the U.S. must contain, and where Mauricio Pochettino's team can find success against one of the tournament's toughest defensive units.

Tab also takes listeners inside the preparation for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, sharing stories from the coaching staff's game-planning process ahead of the United States' opening match against Ghana and explaining why even the most detailed plans can be thrown into chaos once th...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos react to the USMNT’s 2–1 loss to Germany in its final tune-up before the FIFA World Cup kicks off on Friday.

The guys break down the attacking partnership between Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun, while also evaluating the midfield chemistry of Malik Tillman, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams.

Tom provides the latest reporting on Chris Richards’ ankle injury, his expected timeline for return, and how his status could affect the U.S. lineup heading into the tournament.

Plus, Tab reflects on whether the USMNT has truly progressed since the team...

Tab Ramos and Matt Doyle break down the USMNT’s thrilling 3–2 pre-World Cup victory over Senegal. Christian Pulisic finally snaps his goal drought with a spectacular performance, but his growing chemistry with Ricardo Pepi raises new questions about how the U.S. attack should be structured heading into the tournament.

Tab also breaks down the team’s defensive issues and shares his concerns about Chris Richards as he works his way back from injury ahead of the FIFA World Cup.

The guys then go through every U.S. player who saw the field against Senegal, handin...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos react to the USMNT’s FIFA World Cup roster, with Tom explaining the reporting behind the reveal and how the news got out ahead of schedule.

The guys then go position by position through Mauricio Pochettino’s squad decisions, including the heavy emphasis on defenders and outside backs, and the shocking midfield selections of Cristian Roldan and Sebastian Berhalter over Tanner Tessmann and Aidan Morris. They break down what those choices reveal about the way the U.S. plans to play heading into the tournament.

Tom and Tab also debate who...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos are joined by JT Batson, the CEO and Secretary General of the United States Soccer Federation, for an exclusive and revealing conversation about the future of the USMNT and U.S. Soccer.

The group discusses the fallout from Matt Crocker leaving the federation less than two months before the FIFA World Cup, and JT explains his intriguing vision for replacing the Sporting Director role and restructuring the leadership hierarchy within U.S. Soccer.

They also dive into JT’s relationship with Mauricio Pochettino, including insight into Pochettino’s plans following the...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos go position by position to project Mauricio Pochettino’s final USMNT roster for the FIFA World Cup. How many players will the U.S. bring at each position, and which names will make the final cut?

The guys debate whether players like Miles Robinson, Diego Luna, Sebastian Berhalter, Gio Reyna, and Álex Zendejas can move from the bubble onto the squad, while also breaking down the toughest decisions facing the coaching staff.

Plus, Tab shares the full story of the week that changed the trajectory of U.S. Soccer forever.

On this bonus episode of Inside American Soccer, Marcelo Balboa joins Tab Ramos and Matt Doyle for a candid conversation about one of the most important eras in U.S. Soccer history. Marcelo reflects on learning the game the hard way under his father, embracing his edge on the field, and the World Cup moment everything changed for the USMNT.

The group revisits the legendary 1995 Copa América run, including the United States’ historic 3–0 victory over Argentina, and discusses why that tournament changed how the world viewed American soccer.

Marcelo also reveals who he believes is th...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos break down the latest USMNT news, including Johnny Cardoso being ruled out of the World Cup, concerns surrounding Christian Pulisic’s glute injury, and what Gio Reyna finally scoring again in the Bundesliga could mean for his future with the national team.

Tab then breaks down the U.S. group-stage opponents, Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey (Turkiye), offering scouting reports, tactical insights, and early predictions for each match heading into the tournament.

Plus, Tab shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories about the level of security and intensity surrounding the USMNT while playing abroad at t...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos break down the latest USMNT storylines as the FIFA World Cup approaches. Tab makes the case for why Diego Luna and Johnny Cardoso dereseve spots on Mauricio Pochettino’s roster, while also expressing why he is now concerned over Christian Pulisic’s recent struggles with AC Milan.

Tab then ranks his Top 5 individual USMNT World Cup performances since 1990 with a surprising No. 1 pick. Plus, the guys expand the conversation globally with a bonus list of the Top 5 individual performances from the rest of the world.

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Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos open the show by checking in on the latest USMNT performances, including Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie facing off in Serie A, Alex Freeman earning his first start in La Liga, and Gio Reyna finding minutes in the Bundesliga.

They’re then joined by elite skills trainer Alex Ramos, who also happens to be Tab’s son. Alex shares the moment he realized his dad wasn’t just a regular parent, what it was like being coached by him, and the best advice Tab ever gave him. He also dives into his rise a...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos break down the biggest storylines surrounding the USMNT heading into the FIFA World Cup, including the red-hot form of Folarin Balogun and the missed opportunity to build chemistry with Christian Pulisic during the March friendlies.

They also discuss Pellegrino Matarazzo’s stunning Copa del Rey triumph and what it could mean for his future — could he one day lead the USMNT, or even make a jump to Real Madrid?

Tom and Tab then rank their Top 5 most trusted USMNT players heading into the World Cup, with a few notable absences sure...

Tom Bogert returns from paternity leave alongside Tab Ramos to break down the latest around the USMNT. They start with the shocking timing and fallout of Matt Crocker leaving his role as U.S. Soccer Sporting Director for a move to Saudi Arabia less than two months before the FIFA World Cup. Tab explains why he sees it as a troubling sign for the program, and why building a stronger culture is more important than ever.

They discuss Christian Pulisic, should there be real concern about his recent form, or is the panic overblown? Tab also gives...

Clint Mathis returns for an extended conversation with Matt Doyle and Tab Ramos, diving deep into one of the most fascinating careers in U.S. Soccer history. From growing up in Conyers, Georgia where the odds of becoming a professional soccer player were slim, to emerging as one of the game’s most electrifying talents, Clint shares his full journey.

The group revisits his legendary run with the New York/New Jersey MetroStars, his on and off-field connection with Tab, and the unforgettable goals that defined his MLS career. Clint also relives his iconic strike against South Ko...

Matt Doyle and Tab Ramos react to another disappointing USMNT performance against Portugal, questioning the tactical approach from Mauricio Pochettino, including the decision to deploy Christian Pulisic as a lone forward in a false 9 role. Tab voices concerns over the lack of a clear identity, while Matt breaks down exactly what went wrong tactically.

They also react to Pochettino’s eye-opening claim that the U.S. doesn’t have a single player among the world’s top 100, and what that says about his coaching style.

Looking ahead, Tab reveals his projected Starting XI for the FIFA Wo...

Tab Ramos and Matt Doyle react to the USMNT’s disastrous second-half collapse in a 5–2 loss to Belgium. Tab breaks down what went wrong, what Mauricio Pochettino could have done differently to slow down Jérémy Doku, and shares his growing concerns about Christian Pulisic, and why the U.S. needs more from “Captain America.”

Looking ahead to the clash with Portugal, Tab reveals his projected Starting XI, evaluates which players are still fighting for roster spots, and outlines what must change immediately... from tactics to mentality… and even the jersey situation.

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Matt Doyle and Tab Ramos break down Christian Pulisic and the importance of him returning to top form, including why building the USMNT attack around his skill set could unlock the team’s full potential. They explore how a core attacking group featuring Folarin Balogun, Weston McKennie, and Pulisic can transform the final third, and dive into the ongoing question surrounding Tim Weah, where is he most effective for the U.S.: as an attacker or in a deeper defensive role?

The conversation then shifts to the global stage, as Tab and Tom rank their Top 5 dark hor...

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup heats up, the USMNT March friendlies roster might be our clearest signal yet of what’s to come.

On this episode of Inside American Soccer, Matt Doyle and Tab Ramos react to the latest squad under Mauricio Pochettino. They break down what this roster tells us about the U.S. squad for the World Cup, including notable omissions like Yunus Musah, Diego Luna, Alex Zendejas, and Haji Wright—and the surprises that made the cut, including Gio Reyna, Sebastian Berhalter, and Johnny Cardoso.

Plus, who needs a massive perfo...

This week on Inside American Soccer, Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos welcome back USMNT legend Tony Meola. Tony reflects on his unlikely journey, from playing center forward at Kearny High School in New Jersey, to attending the University of Virginia on a dual baseball and soccer scholarship, to the disappointment of being cut from the 1988 Olympic team.

He opens up about the greatest performance of his national team career, the life-changing impact of the 1994 World Cup, and the emotional pump-up video the team watched inside the Pontiac Silverdome the night before their opening match against Switzerland.

Matt Doyle and Tab Ramos dive into the dual-national panic surrounding Noahkai Banks, break down Johnny Cardoso starring in the UEFA Champions League for Atlético Madrid, and examine how Weston McKennie’s new four-year contract with Juventus could shape his role with the USMNT moving forward.

They then rank their Top 5 Most Underrated USMNT players of the last 40 years, featuring names like Jermaine Jones and Benny Feilhaber, along with a few very familiar picks for Inside American Soccer listeners.

Plus, Tab offers a timely and personal look back at the United States vs. Iran mat...

Tab Ramos and Matt Doyle examine the impact of Josh Sargent’s move to Major League Soccer and where he fits in the USMNT No. 9 depth chart behind Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi. They also raise concerns about Tyler Adams’ return to the Premier League and discuss potential World Cup replacements if needed.

The duo ranks their Top 5 MLS players who must impress Mauricio Pochettino to earn a look in the March friendlies, and Tab shares the story of when U.S. Soccer made the leap from likable underdog to true professionals. Plus, they break down the next...

Tab Ramos and Matt Doyle break down the USMNT depth chart at the No. 9 position. With Haji Wright coming off a hat-trick and Patrick Agyemang reaching double-digit goals in the Championship, they analyze how each striker fits into Mauricio Pochettino’s system along with Folarin Balogun and Ricardo Pepi — both for the upcoming March friendlies and the 2026 World Cup.

Doyle unveils his projected Starting XI for the friendlies, while Tab explains the potential role Noahkai Banks could play for the national team moving forward. The episode also features an in-depth tactical discussion focused on the partnerships and posi...

Matt Doyle and Tab Ramos are joined by USMNT legend and World Cup goal-scorer Clint Mathis for a wide-ranging conversation about one of the most iconic eras in American soccer. Clint breaks down what made the 2002 U.S. team so special, shares the story behind his Sports Illustrated cover, and explains how his famous mohawk landed him in trouble. Tab reveals why Clint is his favorite American player of all time, and the group offers predictions for how the USMNT will finish at this year’s World Cup.

They also dive into the latest headlines, including rumors su...

With Tom on paternity leave for a few weeks, Tab Ramos teams up with MLS Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle, and they are joined by USMNT legend Marcelo Balboa for an epic show! They discuss the pressure on the current National Team to at least reach the Quarterfinals of the 2026 World Cup, and why it was easier being the underdog back in the day. Tom and Marcelo talk about how Pochettino should have handled the ticket prices comments from Tim Weah, the Alex Freeman move to Villarreal, plus Ricardo Pepi's failed move to Fulham and it's impact on his place...

Tom Bogert and Tab Ramos are joined by USMNT analyst Brian Dunseth for a wide-ranging conversation on U.S. Soccer. The group revisits Tab’s legendary Snickers commercial, breaks down the latest transfer news involving Alex Freeman, Ricardo Pepi, and Patrick Agyemang, and digs into the biggest culture shift Mauricio Pochettino has brought to the national team. Dunseth unveils his USMNT Starting XI, sparking a debate about Weston McKennie’s role and why his presence on the field is essential. Plus, Dunny shares unforgettable stories from the 2000 U.S. Olympic team, including Landon Donovan's juggling, John O’Brien's fashion, and Cl...

Tom and Tab are joined by Paul Tenorio of The Athletic to discuss the latest news on Josh Sargent's struggle to get to MLS, Weston McKennie's leverage over Juventus and Paul's Top 5 USMNT Things to Watch before the World Cup. Tab is honest about Gio Reyna and where he can be useful for the US Team, and Tab also tells an incredible story about the 1990 World Cup and how the US was unprepared for what was coming. Plus, we dive into the bizarre stealing of towels situation at the  AFCON Final and talk about Paul's new book, The Messi E...

Tom and Tab get into the Pepi injury fallout, Josh Sargent's potential move to Toronto FC, what to make of Weston McKennie's goal scoring surge and when Christian Pulisic will come home to MLS. They answer your mailbag questions about the World Cup roster, players that didn't develop they way they thought and why Gio Reyna's run at Azteca sums up the current generation of USMNT players. Plus Tab goes back to Trinidad in 1989 for stories from the game that changed everything for U.S. Soccer with the "Shot Heard Round the World," and why Tab's pass may have...

Tom and Tab welcome in their first guest, USMNT legend and one of New Jersey's finest Tony Meola. Tony and Tab talk about growing up in Kearny NJ, and how the soccer loving town played a role in their development. Then they discuss their plans for building a professional team in Kearny in the near future. Tony talks about why Tab is the greatest USMNT midfielder of all-time, and goes deep on the pressure Matt Freese will be facing at the World Cup this summer. Plus, Tony talks about his worst mistake on the biggest stage and how he...

Tom and Tab discuss the latest on Americans playing abroad as well as the most up to date news on injuries and transfer rumors. Should Mauricio Pochettino switch to a 3-5-2 formation and build the system around Christian Pulisic, should Ricardo Pepi move to the Premier League before the World Cup, and how do Weston McKennie, Brenden Aaronson and Patrick Agyemang fit in with the USMNT... Plus, what the U.S. need to improve on the most in 2026, Tab tells an incredible story from his career at N.C.State and why we should all be concerned about...

Tom and Tab discuss all the latest transfer rumors surrounding the USMNT players. Who is moving, who is staying, where might they go, and what decisions need to be made in January. They cover Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams Manchester United rumors, Weston McKennie's contract issues with Juventus, if Alex Freeman should leave MLS for Spain, Haji Wright's chances of gong to the Premier League and Sebastian Berhalter looking closely at European opportunities. Tab also tells some incredible stories about his transfers to Real Betis, Tigres and then becoming the first player ever signed by MLS.

See...

Tom and Tab do their USMNT Year in Review Special! They grade the overall performance of the team during 2025, with some harsh words for Maurcio Pochettino. Both then give their Top-5 USMNT Players and Moments of the Year, including Tab's surprising #1 pick which changed everything for U.S. Soccer. Tab tells an incredible story from U20 World Cup Qualifiers in CONCACAF, and Tom gives all the latest info on the Tyler Adams injury.

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Tom and Tab react to the USMNT's very favorable World Cup draw, breaking down the matchups with Paraguay, Australia, and likely Turkiye. They get into why expectations for the team are now raised, and how the draw will impact the team selection and lineups. Tab tells a couple of incredible stories about qualifying and preparing for the 1990 World Cup, and how much different things were for U.S. Soccer. 

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Tom and Tab go through the very interesting weekend for Americans abroad, including Christian Pulisic sitting out, Ricardo Pepi and Tyler Adams scoring beautiful goals, Weston McKennie playing Right Wing Back and Tanner Tessmann at Center Back. They also discuss the USMNT players in MLS Cup, focussing on Brian White's chances of making the World Cup roster in the summer. They break down the Pot system and Preview the World Cup Draw. Plus, the Big Question of the week is based off of Mauricio Pochettino's comments about winning the World Cup. What would be considered a success for the...

We’re focused on the USMNT World Cup roster watch. It’s important that we set the table on where the race for the roster stands. A lot can and will change between now and the summer. Who are locks? Who’s on the bubble? And who is on the outside looking in, position by position.

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In our debut episode Tom and Tab give you the backstory on their connection and breakdown the extremely successful November window for the USMNT. From how Mauricio Pochettino has changed the culture of the team, to who got themselves on the plane, and who is in trouble. They give their current Starting XI for the US team and Tab tells the story of how he helped identify Tanner Tessmann, brought him into the National Team fold and what makes him different than almost any other player on the team. 

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