CGSports POD: Live @ The Innovation Studio

good morning, welcome to the first good morning, welcome to the first episode of CG Sport Spot, your passion, episode of CG Sport Spot, your passion, episode of CG Sport Spot, your passion, our podcast. We are broadcasting our podcast. We are broadcasting our podcast. We are broadcasting live from Innovation live from Innovation live from Innovation Studios in Downtown Houston and my name Studios in Downtown Houston and my name Studios in Downtown Houston and my name is David Castro, director of C Sports is David Castro, director of C Sports is David Castro, director of C Sports Media. Today I am accompanied by Germán Benítez, Media. Today I am accompanied by Germán Benítez, Media. Today I am accompanied by Germán Benítez, the dynamic one. Many of you may already the dynamic one. Many of you may already the dynamic one. Many of you may already know him from Dynamo coverage. know him from Dynamo coverage. know him from Dynamo coverage. So, Germán, thank you very much So, Germán, thank you very much So, Germán, thank you very much for joining us. Okay, so I'm going to for joining us. Okay, so I'm going to for joining us. Okay, so I'm going to let him introduce himself for a let him introduce himself for a let him introduce himself for a moment to see what he has to moment to see what he has to moment to see what he has to say, to let him introduce himself, say, to let him introduce himself, say, to let him introduce himself, and well, to tell us a and well, to tell us a and well, to tell us a little bit about himself, little bit about himself, little bit about himself, right? David, thank you for the right? David, thank you for the right? David, thank you for the invitation. I congratulate you on your podcast and invitation. I congratulate you on your podcast and invitation. I congratulate you on your podcast and wish you much success, wish you much success, wish you much success, God willing. Thank you to Innovation Studium for the God willing. Thank you to Innovation Studium for the God willing. Thank you to Innovation Studium for the invitation. What a beautiful studio. invitation. What a beautiful studio. invitation. What a beautiful studio. I'm excited to be able to talk about I'm excited to be able to talk about I'm excited to be able to talk about football with you this morning. Hey, a little rap football with you this morning. Hey, a little rap football with you this morning. Hey, a little rap on me. I don't like to talk about on me. I don't like to talk about on me. I don't like to talk about myself, but this myself, but this myself, but this is the opportunity. is the opportunity. is the opportunity. This is the opportunity, isn't it? Hey, Germán This is the opportunity, isn't it? Hey, Germán This is the opportunity, isn't it? Hey, Germán Benítez, hey, proudly Benítez, hey, proudly Benítez, hey, proudly Salvadoran roots. Uh, I've been Salvadoran roots. Uh, I've been Salvadoran roots. Uh, I've been covering the Houston Dynamo here in covering the Houston Dynamo here in covering the Houston Dynamo here in Houston for 4 years. Uh, I'm a current reporter for Houston for 4 years. Uh, I'm a current reporter for Houston for 4 years. Uh, I'm a current reporter for Foxstrat Media and as I was telling you Foxstrat Media and as I was telling you Foxstrat Media and as I was telling you this morning, I've had the this morning, I've had the this morning, I've had the privilege of following not only privilege of following not only privilege of following not only Dinamo, but also the CACAF Dinamo, but also the CACAF Dinamo, but also the CACAF Champions League, the League Cup, and Champions League, the League Cup, and Champions League, the League Cup, and international tournaments like international tournaments like international tournaments like the Copa America in 2024 and the the Copa America in 2024 and the the Copa America in 2024 and the most recent Gold Cup. Sadly, God didn't most recent Gold Cup. Sadly, God didn't most recent Gold Cup. Sadly, God didn't want us to go to the World Cup, but

want us to go to the World Cup, but want us to go to the World Cup, but God willing, in the future. That's how it goes, God willing, in the future. That's how it goes, God willing, in the future. That's how it goes, that's how it goes, right? I actually that's how it goes, right? I actually that's how it goes, right? I actually met Germán during one of the met Germán during one of the met Germán during one of the Dynamo coverages and we Dynamo coverages and we Dynamo coverages and we developed a good rapport, and well, he's one of developed a good rapport, and well, he's one of developed a good rapport, and well, he's one of those people you want to invite to those people you want to invite to those people you want to invite to these kinds of programs, so that's why I had him these kinds of programs, so that's why I had him these kinds of programs, so that's why I had him here because he knows about soccer, here because he knows about soccer, here because he knows about soccer, he knows the subject, and well, getting down to he knows the subject, and well, getting down to he knows the subject, and well, getting down to business, obviously the topic we're going business, obviously the topic we're going business, obviously the topic we're going to discuss is the World Cup, because the to discuss is the World Cup, because the to discuss is the World Cup, because the World Cup has already started, we're not going to talk about anything World Cup has already started, we're not going to talk about anything World Cup has already started, we're not going to talk about anything else because that's what everyone else because that's what everyone else because that's what everyone is consuming. I am at this moment. is consuming. I am at this moment. is consuming. I am at this moment. So, I So, I So, I divided this program into four divided this program into four divided this program into four segments so that we have some kind of segments so that we have some kind of segments so that we have some kind of order, but to get down to order, but to get down to order, but to get down to business, to warm up, to break the ice a bit business, to warm up, to break the ice a bit business, to warm up, to break the ice a bit , let's start with something , let's start with something , let's start with something historical. historical. historical. Three opening ceremonies for the first time in the Three opening ceremonies for the first time in the Three opening ceremonies for the first time in the history of a World Cup. history of a World Cup. history of a World Cup. I don't know what your I don't know what your I don't know what your opinion is on the matter. I have my own opinion, opinion is on the matter. I have my own opinion, opinion is on the matter. I have my own opinion, obviously, but I'd like to know if there was obviously, but I'd like to know if there was obviously, but I'd like to know if there was one that was the most, I do one that was the most, I do one that was the most, I do n't know, the one that was around here, or if they n't know, the one that was around here, or if they n't know, the one that was around here, or if they were all like, I don't know, I have my were all like, I don't know, I have my were all like, I don't know, I have my opinion, I'll leave yours. Yes, no, well, since I opinion, I'll leave yours. Yes, no, well, since I opinion, I'll leave yours. Yes, no, well, since I 'm from the jungle, I like to dance and 'm from the jungle, I like to dance and 'm from the jungle, I like to dance and all, right, well, the number one was the one all, right, well, the number one was the one all, right, well, the number one was the one from Mexico just because of the music they from Mexico just because of the music they from Mexico just because of the music they had. Hey, Shakira with her had. Hey, Shakira with her had. Hey, Shakira with her World Cup song, she really saved the World Cup

World Cup song, she really saved the World Cup World Cup song, she really saved the World Cup with that song she released. with that song she released. with that song she released. Yes. Yes. Yes. Uh, Maná too. Hey, my love. Uh-huh Uh, Maná too. Hey, my love. Uh-huh Uh, Maná too. Hey, my love. Uh-huh . . . Oh, and also Los Ángeles Azules, I think that's what it's Oh, and also Los Ángeles Azules, I think that's what it's Oh, and also Los Ángeles Azules, I think that's what it's called, the cumbia group with called, the cumbia group with called, the cumbia group with Belinda, right? Well, the atmosphere was Belinda, right? Well, the atmosphere was Belinda, right? Well, the atmosphere was good, and besides, everyone knows that good, and besides, everyone knows that good, and besides, everyone knows that entertainment in Latin America entertainment in Latin America entertainment in Latin America has to go through Mexico, through has to go through Mexico, through has to go through Mexico, through Televisa, to make you big, you Televisa, to make you big, you Televisa, to make you big, you know what I mean? Then they brought know what I mean? Then they brought know what I mean? Then they brought all those top-level Hispanic artists, all those top-level Hispanic artists, and you add to that the aura of and you add to that the aura of the Azteca Stadium, the Azteca Stadium, the Azteca Stadium, which in my opinion should have which in my opinion should have which in my opinion should have hosted the final so that it would have been the hosted the final so that it would have been the hosted the final so that it would have been the third final in that stadium. But they've third final in that stadium. But they've third final in that stadium. But they've put a lot of effort put a lot of effort put a lot of effort into renovating it, into renovating it, into renovating it, and honestly, my applause and praise go to and honestly, my applause and praise go to and honestly, my applause and praise go to Mexico for how beautifully they opened Mexico for how beautifully they opened Mexico for how beautifully they opened the World Cup. the World Cup. the World Cup. The Azteca Stadium was truly beautiful, the people were The Azteca Stadium was truly beautiful, the people were The Azteca Stadium was truly beautiful, the people were top-notch, the artists were top-notch, top-notch, the artists were top-notch, top-notch, the artists were top-notch, and in second place, the United States, and in second place, the United States, and in second place, the United States, with Katy Perry, with Katy Perry, with Katy Perry, and they also had other and they also had other and they also had other rap artists. And the rap artists. And the rap artists. And the SofaStadium, what can I say? That's a SofaStadium, what can I say? That's a SofaStadium, what can I say? That's a luxury. I haven't heard it myself, but it looks like it's on luxury. I haven't heard it myself, but it looks like it's on a a world-class level, right? I do world-class level, right? I do world-class level, right? I do n't know if that's a word, but n't know if that's a word, but n't know if that's a word, but yeah, like yeah, like yeah, like Katie Perry singing with the Katie Perry singing with the Katie Perry singing with the little kid, you know what I mean? Something beautiful, little kid, you know what I mean? Something beautiful, little kid, you know what I mean? Something beautiful, quite moving.

quite moving. quite moving. Oh, and I don't know if this counts or not, I do Oh, and I don't know if this counts or not, I do Oh, and I don't know if this counts or not, I do n't think so, but I'm going to add it. Hey, I'm n't think so, but I'm going to add it. Hey, I'm n't think so, but I'm going to add it. Hey, I'm going to tell you something. I've heard going to tell you something. I've heard going to tell you something. I've heard quite a few US national anthems quite a few US national anthems quite a few US national anthems , but the two men who , but the two men who , but the two men who sang that anthem, sang that anthem, sang that anthem, yes. yes. yes. Wow, their voices are really beautiful, aren't they? Wow, their voices are really beautiful, aren't they? Wow, their voices are really beautiful, aren't they? The truth brings tears to your eyes. The truth brings tears to your eyes. The truth brings tears to your eyes. No, it was quite emotional. I No, it was quite emotional. I No, it was quite emotional. I think that of all three ceremonies think that of all three ceremonies think that of all three ceremonies I saw, uh, I agree with you, the one I saw, uh, I agree with you, the one I saw, uh, I agree with you, the one in in in Mexico Mexico Mexico because it gave it a lot of color, a lot of life, because it gave it a lot of color, a lot of life, because it gave it a lot of color, a lot of life, that Latin color. that Latin color. that Latin color. Exactly, exactly. The imp, that is, that thing where Exactly, exactly. The imp, that is, that thing where Exactly, exactly. The imp, that is, that thing where you want the show and they you want the show and they you want the show and they put it on. put it on. put it on. Uh, now I compare the one in Canada, which Uh, now I compare the one in Canada, which Uh, now I compare the one in Canada, which was kind of simple. Yes, was kind of simple. Yes, was kind of simple. Yes, the US national anthem was the US national anthem was the US national anthem was good, good, good, but yes, to highlight the but yes, to highlight the but yes, to highlight the US national anthem, the way they US national anthem, the way they US national anthem, the way they performed it, it really felt very performed it, it really felt very performed it, it really felt very , I do , I do , I do n't know, very n't know, very n't know, very heartfelt, and the voice was very heartfelt, and the voice was very heartfelt, and the voice was very tender, sweet, at the volume it needed to tender, sweet, at the volume it needed to tender, sweet, at the volume it needed to be, you know?

be, you know? be, you know? Total, total. Total, total. Total, total. Yes. So, there you have it. I don't Yes. So, there you have it. I don't Yes. So, there you have it. I don't know what your opinion is as to which know what your opinion is as to which know what your opinion is as to which ceremony you liked more, but ceremony you liked more, but ceremony you liked more, but we have our opinion. You we have our opinion. You we have our opinion. You have yours. Hey, if you're going to comment, if you're going to have yours. Hey, if you're going to comment, if you're going to have yours. Hey, if you're going to comment, if you're going to share with us, do it share with us, do it share with us, do it respectfully, but interact. We want respectfully, but interact. We want respectfully, but interact. We want to hear your comments, we want to know to hear your comments, we want to know to hear your comments, we want to know what you think. Okay, now, what you think. Okay, now, what you think. Okay, now, getting down to business, this next getting down to business, this next getting down to business, this next segment is called The Recap Room. segment is called The Recap Room. segment is called The Recap Room. I'm saying this in English because this I'm saying this in English because this I'm saying this in English because this program is currently being broadcast in Spanish, but we're program is currently being broadcast in Spanish, but we're program is currently being broadcast in Spanish, but we're going to do it in English as well. going to do it in English as well. going to do it in English as well. So, if you don't speak Spanish today, So, if you don't speak Spanish today, So, if you don't speak Spanish today, next time, we'll have it next time, we'll have it next time, we'll have it in English and you'll be able to in English and you'll be able to in English and you'll be able to listen to us, but in Spanish it will be listen to us, but in Spanish it will be listen to us, but in Spanish it will be called the summary. I called the summary. I called the summary. I have several questions in this have several questions in this have several questions in this segment. segment. segment. Obviously, we have to start with Mexico and Obviously, we have to start with Mexico and Obviously, we have to start with Mexico and South Africa. South Africa. South Africa. Yes, yes, yes. Yes, yes, yes. Yes, yes, yes. The opening game, much anticipation. The opening game, much anticipation. The opening game, much anticipation. Eh, a Mexican fanbase that always Eh, a Mexican fanbase that always Eh, a Mexican fanbase that always demands the best from its team. demands the best from its team. demands the best from its team. And obviously it was no exception, a And obviously it was no exception, a And obviously it was no exception, a packed stadium, the packed stadium, the packed stadium, the ceremonial show we just talked about, and now ceremonial show we just talked about, and now ceremonial show we just talked about, and now the game, which in fact the game, which in fact the game, which in fact we had commented on another program that this could work we had commented on another program that this could work we had commented on another program that this could work against Mexico against Mexico against Mexico because of the number of people, the pressure, because of the number of people, the pressure, because of the number of people, the pressure, being in front of your audience, being in front of your audience, being in front of your audience, and in the end it was a game that and in the end it was a game that and in the end it was a game that Mexico won as expected.

Mexico won as expected. Mexico won as expected. Yes. Yes. Yes. Now I'm going to let you Now I'm going to let you Now I'm going to let you analyze how the game went, because I saw analyze how the game went, because I saw analyze how the game went, because I saw something that perhaps wasn't what I something that perhaps wasn't what I something that perhaps wasn't what I expected. expected. expected. Mm. No, maybe a lot of people are going to Mm. No, maybe a lot of people are going to Mm. No, maybe a lot of people are going to tell me I should be more tell me I should be more tell me I should be more ambitious, to ambitious, to ambitious, to stop being satisfied with small things, stop being satisfied with small things, stop being satisfied with small things, but but but you actually opened the World Cup in your country, you actually opened the World Cup in your country, you actually opened the World Cup in your country, you got three points, you got three points, you got three points, you dominated the match, you dominated the match, you dominated the match, what more do you want? what more do you want? what more do you want? But I've spoken with But I've spoken with But I've spoken with Mexican fans who say we shouldn't see them get thrashed. Mexican fans who say we shouldn't see them get thrashed. Mexican fans who say we shouldn't see them get thrashed. Let's calm down. The important thing is to get the Let's calm down. The important thing is to get the Let's calm down. The important thing is to get the three points three points three points and take advantage of that stadium which and take advantage of that stadium which and take advantage of that stadium which was packed, was packed, was packed, completely packed. The truth was felt at the completely packed. The truth was felt at the completely packed. The truth was felt at the Azteca Stadium. Azteca Stadium. Azteca Stadium. Yes. Yes. Yes. Uh, to be honest, uh, I'm also happy for Uh, to be honest, uh, I'm also happy for Uh, to be honest, uh, I'm also happy for Raúl Jiménez, uh, his first goal in a Raúl Jiménez, uh, his first goal in a Raúl Jiménez, uh, his first goal in a World Cup, World Cup, World Cup, uh, apart from the individual aspect for him, uh, apart from the individual aspect for him, uh, apart from the individual aspect for him, uh, the sentimental aspect, right? Dedicating it uh, the sentimental aspect, right? Dedicating it uh, the sentimental aspect, right? Dedicating it to his father who is in heaven.

to his father who is in heaven. to his father who is in heaven. Wow, that story broke my heart. Wow, that story broke my heart. Wow, that story broke my heart. Yes. Uh, I would have liked his father to have Yes. Uh, I would have liked his father to have Yes. Uh, I would have liked his father to have seen it, but God has his seen it, but God has his seen it, but God has his plans, you know. And plans, you know. And plans, you know. And happy for Raúl Jiménez, happy for Raúl Jiménez, happy for Raúl Jiménez, this one, but no. Yes, people wanted more this one, but no. Yes, people wanted more this one, but no. Yes, people wanted more goals, but he dominated, he did his job, goals, but he dominated, he did his job, goals, but he dominated, he did his job, which was to win three points in the next which was to win three points in the next which was to win three points in the next match. match. match. Yes, that's true. I think she Yes, that's true. I think she Yes, that's true. I think she did her homework. The task is done, and I believe it's did her homework. The task is done, and I believe it's did her homework. The task is done, and I believe it's better to correct course along the better to correct course along the better to correct course along the way than to start by losing and then have to figure out way than to start by losing and then have to figure out way than to start by losing and then have to figure out what to do next. Well, I honestly what to do next. Well, I honestly what to do next. Well, I honestly expected more from Mexico, I expected more from them. expected more from Mexico, I expected more from them. expected more from Mexico, I expected more from them. I think they had the opportunity to I think they had the opportunity to I think they had the opportunity to win by a large margin, as many people expected. win by a large margin, as many people expected. win by a large margin, as many people expected. Yes, Yes, Yes, in parts I think he relaxed a lot. in parts I think he relaxed a lot. in parts I think he relaxed a lot. Yes. And I think even the fans weren't happy; there were Yes. And I think even the fans weren't happy; there were Yes. And I think even the fans weren't happy; there were boos at boos at boos at times, because there were red cards everywhere times, because there were red cards everywhere times, because there were red cards everywhere , , , yes, yes, two for South Africa, one for Mexico, and two for South Africa, one for Mexico, and even with Mexico's numerical advantage, it wasn't even with Mexico's numerical advantage, it wasn't noticeable that they had two noticeable that they had two extra players for that stretch, and then extra players for that stretch, and then extra players for that stretch, and then when they had one extra player, it wasn't noticeable either; in when they had one extra player, it wasn't noticeable either; in when they had one extra player, it wasn't noticeable either; in my opinion, it wasn't noticeable. Obviously Mexico my opinion, it wasn't noticeable. Obviously Mexico my opinion, it wasn't noticeable. Obviously Mexico was ahead, they had possession the whole was ahead, they had possession the whole was ahead, they had possession the whole time, but I do time, but I do time, but I do n't know, I think they fell short in n't know, I think they fell short in n't know, I think they fell short in terms of their play, but the job is terms of their play, but the job is terms of their play, but the job is done, which is what matters.

done, which is what matters. done, which is what matters. Yes, the task is done and this is what I'm Yes, the task is done and this is what I'm Yes, the task is done and this is what I'm going to do. This is not a race, this is going to do. This is not a race, this is going to do. This is not a race, this is a marathon. a marathon. a marathon. We're at Azteca Stadium, it's quite high up We're at Azteca Stadium, it's quite high up We're at Azteca Stadium, it's quite high up , isn't it? Yes, yes, yes, yes. We need to , isn't it? Yes, yes, yes, yes. We need to , isn't it? Yes, yes, yes, yes. We need to save, we are saving save, we are saving save, we are saving energy. This is the first match and it's energy. This is the first match and it's energy. This is the first match and it's a longer World Cup. There's one more round. a longer World Cup. There's one more round. a longer World Cup. There's one more round. step by step. step by step. step by step. Exact. We Exact. We Exact. We live in a society where everyone live in a society where everyone live in a society where everyone wants things immediately, wants things immediately, wants things immediately, right? And that's why it's good to have right? And that's why it's good to have right? And that's why it's good to have someone else with a different opinion, because someone else with a different opinion, because someone else with a different opinion, because I'm perhaps a little more critical, I'm perhaps a little more critical, I'm perhaps a little more critical, right? right? right? Well, because I like to talk about the game itself Well, because I like to talk about the game itself Well, because I like to talk about the game itself , but , but , but 5 years ago I thought like that, 5 years ago I thought like that, 5 years ago I thought like that, and by covering a team I'm and by covering a team I'm and by covering a team I'm realizing that no, these are human beings, realizing that no, these are human beings, realizing that no, these are human beings, right? No, they right? No, they right? No, they are not machines, are not machines, are not machines, they are humans. So, maybe I they are humans. So, maybe I they are humans. So, maybe I 've gained some perspective from that angle, but 've gained some perspective from that angle, but 've gained some perspective from that angle, but they did their homework, they're waiting for they did their homework, they're waiting for they did their homework, they're waiting for people. Now Rojas complicates things people. Now Rojas complicates things people. Now Rojas complicates things because César Monte was a starting center back because César Monte was a starting center back because César Monte was a starting center back , you know what I mean? , you know what I mean? , you know what I mean? And I don't think they brought many players to the And I don't think they brought many players to the And I don't think they brought many players to the squad, so that's something squad, so that's something squad, so that's something Vasco has to think about. Exact.

Vasco has to think about. Exact. Vasco has to think about. Exact. Well, there's the task. Mexico did it, Well, there's the task. Mexico did it, Well, there's the task. Mexico did it, with or without doubts, but they did it. Three with or without doubts, but they did it. Three with or without doubts, but they did it. Three points that leave him very close to points that leave him very close to points that leave him very close to reaching the next phase, which is what he reaching the next phase, which is what he reaching the next phase, which is what he needs. Well, as Germán says, it's needs. Well, as Germán says, it's needs. Well, as Germán says, it's a marathon a marathon a marathon and we'll see what the future holds and we'll see what the future holds and we'll see what the future holds for Mexico. for Mexico. for Mexico. Correct. Now, Correct. Now, Correct. Now, Switzerland, Switzerland, Switzerland, the Switzerland vs. Qatar match. the Switzerland vs. Qatar match. the Switzerland vs. Qatar match. Great game, Great game, Great game, man. man. man. Oh, I think, look, I wrote an Oh, I think, look, I wrote an Oh, I think, look, I wrote an article article article about this match about this match about this match and I wrote it in English, but it said, and I wrote it in English, but it said, and I wrote it in English, but it said, "Being complacent "Being complacent "Being complacent cost Switzerland the game." Yes, cost Switzerland the game." Yes, cost Switzerland the game." Yes, Switzerland could have finished them off, Switzerland could have finished them off, Switzerland could have finished them off, I mean, we entered the game, they could I mean, we entered the game, they could I mean, we entered the game, they could have finished them off many times. Yes, have finished them off many times. Yes, have finished them off many times. Yes, but I think, I don't know, they relaxed, and but I think, I don't know, they relaxed, and but I think, I don't know, they relaxed, and Qatar started pushing forward with about Qatar started pushing forward with about Qatar started pushing forward with about 15 minutes left in the 15 minutes left in the 15 minutes left in the game, game, game, and you could see the goal was and you could see the goal was and you could see the goal was coming because, I don't know, Switzerland coming because, I don't know, Switzerland coming because, I don't know, Switzerland used all their physical strength, but they couldn't, used all their physical strength, but they couldn't, and then in the 94th minute, a and then in the 94th minute, a surprise came that I surprise came that I surprise came that I think left Switzerland think left Switzerland think left Switzerland thinking, "I should have done my homework thinking, "I should have done my homework thinking, "I should have done my homework earlier."

earlier." earlier." Yes. And now Qatar, who have nothing to Yes. And now Qatar, who have nothing to Yes. And now Qatar, who have nothing to lose because they're lose because they're lose because they're obviously the obviously the obviously the underdog, the team that isn't the favorite, underdog, the team that isn't the favorite, underdog, the team that isn't the favorite, and they come along and deliver a blow of authority in and they come along and deliver a blow of authority in and they come along and deliver a blow of authority in this way that leaves you this way that leaves you this way that leaves you crippled, even though you only crippled, even though you only crippled, even though you only have one point. have one point. have one point. Yes, Yes, Yes, but that group isn't easy, is but that group isn't easy, is but that group isn't easy, is it? So, I don't know what you saw it? So, I don't know what you saw it? So, I don't know what you saw in that game, but what I saw in that game, but what I saw in that game, but what I saw was that Switzerland relaxed and should have was that Switzerland relaxed and should have was that Switzerland relaxed and should have finished the game in the first half. finished the game in the first half. finished the game in the first half. Yes, they didn't lose, but he who forgives Yes, they didn't lose, but he who forgives Yes, they didn't lose, but he who forgives loses. loses. loses. Exactly, that's it. Exactly, that's it. Exactly, that's it. He who forgives loses. And credit He who forgives loses. And credit He who forgives loses. And credit to Qatar for continuing to pursue it. to Qatar for continuing to pursue it. to Qatar for continuing to pursue it. Yes, Yes, Yes, right. To continue Looking for that draw, huh? right. To continue Looking for that draw, huh? right. To continue Looking for that draw, huh? And they went for it more in the end, like you said, And they went for it more in the end, like you said, And they went for it more in the end, like you said, when Switzerland relaxed. But for me, when Switzerland relaxed. But for me, when Switzerland relaxed. But for me, personally, I'm happy because I like seeing personally, I'm happy because I like seeing personally, I'm happy because I like seeing teams stand up to the Europeans, teams stand up to the Europeans, teams stand up to the Europeans, right? That's right? That's right? That's because, you see, people in because, you see, people in because, you see, people in top-level football think, oh, this World Cup doesn't top-level football think, oh, this World Cup doesn't top-level football think, oh, this World Cup doesn't have much talent, this World Cup has no have much talent, this World Cup has no have much talent, this World Cup has no quality. I like seeing quality. I like seeing quality. I like seeing underdog teams stand up to the underdog teams stand up to the underdog teams stand up to the Europeans, and Qatar went for it, they went for it, and Europeans, and Qatar went for it, they went for it, and Europeans, and Qatar went for it, they went for it, and in their World Cup in their World Cup in their World Cup they had a process they worked on for they had a process they worked on for they had a process they worked on for years so as not to be embarrassed, years so as not to be embarrassed, years so as not to be embarrassed, and there they have a team, you and there they have a team, you and there they have a team, you know? There they have a foundation that know? There they have a foundation that know? There they have a foundation that got a point in the World Cup, which gives them the got a point in the World Cup, which gives them the got a point in the World Cup, which gives them the right to dream. Of course, of course, because right to dream. Of course, of course, because right to dream. Of course, of course, because who's to say that in the next match

who's to say that in the next match who's to say that in the next match this will have boosted their morale? this will have boosted their morale? this will have boosted their morale? Right. Right. Right. Next match they might come Next match they might come Next match they might come with a different approach. with a different approach. with a different approach. Right. Right. Right. And maybe they will win the match and And maybe they will win the match and And maybe they will win the match and suddenly they'll be in the suddenly they'll be in the suddenly they'll be in the next round and, man, from one moment to the next round and, man, from one moment to the next round and, man, from one moment to the next they're not favorites anymore, but they're next they're not favorites anymore, but they're next they're not favorites anymore, but they're putting up a fight. putting up a fight. putting up a fight. Yes, right. Yes, right. Yes, right. So, Okay, let's see what Switzerland can do So, Okay, let's see what Switzerland can do So, Okay, let's see what Switzerland can do now. now. now. Yes, they have to respond, they have to get Yes, they have to respond, they have to get Yes, they have to respond, they have to get three points. three points. three points. They played a dominant game, but it didn't They played a dominant game, but it didn't They played a dominant game, but it didn't look like they were completely overwhelmed. I did look like they were completely overwhelmed. I did look like they were completely overwhelmed. I did n't see it that way. n't see it that way. n't see it that way. Right. I did Right. I did Right. I did n't see it that way. Now for the next match. n't see it that way. Now for the next match. n't see it that way. Now for the next match. Canada. Canada. Canada. Come on. That one was also interesting. I think it Come on. That one was also interesting. I think it Come on. That one was also interesting. I think it was one of the matches was one of the matches was one of the matches I liked the most. I liked the most. I liked the most. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Um, starting with the fact that a substitute came on. Um, starting with the fact that a substitute came on. Um, starting with the fact that a substitute came on. Mm. Mm. Mm. Um, Larin, I think it was. Um, Larin, I think it was. Um, Larin, I think it was. Yes. He Yes. He Yes. He came on and scored a goal two minutes later. came on and scored a goal two minutes later. came on and scored a goal two minutes later. Right. Right. Right. Crazy, huh? I mean, a Crazy, huh? I mean, a Crazy, huh? I mean, a player who gets to a World Cup, they put you on player who gets to a World Cup, they put you on player who gets to a World Cup, they put you on in the 70th minute and you score right away in the 70th minute and you score right away in the 70th minute and you score right away . I mean, that's a dream for . I mean, that's a dream for . I mean, that's a dream for any player, I think.

any player, I think. any player, I think. Right. And a lot of people were complaining to Right. And a lot of people were complaining to Right. And a lot of people were complaining to Jessie Marsha, the American coach Jessie Marsha, the American coach Jessie Marsha, the American coach of Canada, about of Canada, about of Canada, about why he wasn't a starter, but the why he wasn't a starter, but the why he wasn't a starter, but the coach knows his players better than anyone, coach knows his players better than anyone, coach knows his players better than anyone, right? Yes. right? Yes. right? Yes. And it worked to bring him on as a substitute, and And it worked to bring him on as a substitute, and And it worked to bring him on as a substitute, and that was another that was another that was another entertaining match. This World Cup has been good. entertaining match. This World Cup has been good. entertaining match. This World Cup has been good. Entertaining. Entertaining. Entertaining. Yes. Yes. Yes. The quality of the The quality of the The quality of the soccer matches we've seen soccer matches we've seen soccer matches we've seen has been spectacular. Many teams are going for has been spectacular. Many teams are going for has been spectacular. Many teams are going for the win. No sitting the win. No sitting the win. No sitting back and counter-attacking. Both teams back and counter-attacking. Both teams back and counter-attacking. Both teams are looking for the three points. Uh, are looking for the three points. Uh, are looking for the three points. Uh, Canada could have won that match, Canada could have won that match, Canada could have won that match, but they couldn't capitalize on several but they couldn't capitalize on several but they couldn't capitalize on several opportunities they had. Uh, Canada had chances opportunities they had. Uh, Canada had chances opportunities they had. Uh, Canada had chances to win that home game, and to win that home game, and to win that home game, and honestly, I wanted to see what honestly, I wanted to see what honestly, I wanted to see what the stadium was like because they were the stadium was like because they were the stadium was like because they were building a stand behind the building a stand behind the building a stand behind the goal, and I wanted to see what it would look like, goal, and I wanted to see what it would look like, goal, and I wanted to see what it would look like, but honestly, that's another thing that but honestly, that's another thing that but honestly, that's another thing that impresses me. Well, I impresses me. Well, I impresses me. Well, I knew Canada was going to be full because they were there, and knew Canada was going to be full because they were there, and knew Canada was going to be full because they were there, and Bosnia also Bosnia also Bosnia also had a lot of Bosnian fans in the had a lot of Bosnian fans in the had a lot of Bosnian fans in the stands, you know?

stands, you know? stands, you know? But people are coming to But people are coming to But people are coming to the stadiums. David, I honestly thought the stadiums. David, I honestly thought the stadiums. David, I honestly thought that $1,000 per game was a that $1,000 per game was a that $1,000 per game was a long shot, but people are long shot, but people are long shot, but people are responding. I'm surprised. responding. I'm surprised. responding. I'm surprised. Yes, otherwise, I mean, forget about prices, what Yes, otherwise, I mean, forget about prices, what Yes, otherwise, I mean, forget about prices, what you're saying, $1,000, people, you're saying, $1,000, people, you're saying, $1,000, people, the stadiums are full, and that's it, that's it, or the stadiums are full, and that's it, that's it, or the stadiums are full, and that's it, that's it, or Well, people are responding. It helps Well, people are responding. It helps Well, people are responding. It helps the atmosphere. It helps the atmosphere quite a bit the atmosphere. It helps the atmosphere quite a bit the atmosphere. It helps the atmosphere quite a bit because an empty stadium, right? because an empty stadium, right? because an empty stadium, right? No, No, No, now I don't know which matches that aren't so now I don't know which matches that aren't so now I don't know which matches that aren't so high-profile will draw such large crowds. high-profile will draw such large crowds. high-profile will draw such large crowds. We're going to have one here in Houston, We're going to have one here in Houston, We're going to have one here in Houston, actually, actually, actually, but there still has to be some atmosphere but there still has to be some atmosphere but there still has to be some atmosphere . In fact, if nobody shows up for that . In fact, if nobody shows up for that . In fact, if nobody shows up for that match, I'm going to try to go because it's one of match, I'm going to try to go because it's one of match, I'm going to try to go because it's one of the cheapest. the cheapest. the cheapest. Yes, that's right. Yes, that's right. Yes, that's right. And being able to say that we were at a And being able to say that we were at a And being able to say that we were at a World Cup, World Cup, World Cup, nobody can take that away from you, it's an experience, nobody can take that away from you, it's an experience, nobody can take that away from you, it's an experience, right? It's marked on your checklist. right? It's marked on your checklist. right? It's marked on your checklist. Yes. Well Yes. Well Yes. Well , and to wrap things up, I'm going to , and to wrap things up, I'm going to , and to wrap things up, I'm going to close with one close with one close with one more match. Morocco vs. Brazil. more match. Morocco vs. Brazil. more match. Morocco vs. Brazil. For me, so far, the biggest match in the For me, so far, the biggest match in the For me, so far, the biggest match in the world. Right.

world. Right. world. Right. Morocco. They're two teams that Morocco. They're two teams that Morocco. They're two teams that are in the top 10 of the are in the top 10 of the are in the top 10 of the FIFA rankings. FIFA rankings. FIFA rankings. Yes. Yes. Yes. So it was expected, So it was expected, So it was expected, but man, at times, in the first 20 but man, at times, in the first 20 but man, at times, in the first 20 minutes, Morocco dominated minutes, Morocco dominated minutes, Morocco dominated . I didn't recognize Brazil. I . I didn't recognize Brazil. I . I didn't recognize Brazil. I said, "Man, if these guys are going to keep going said, "Man, if these guys are going to keep going said, "Man, if these guys are going to keep going after the first goal, uh..." " after the first goal, uh..." " after the first goal, uh..." " Forget it." Forget it." Forget it." Uh, that was the match I most wanted to Uh, that was the match I most wanted to Uh, that was the match I most wanted to see from the first few days. see from the first few days. see from the first few days. Because I wanted to know if they continued working on the Morocco team that Because I wanted to know if they continued working on the Morocco team that Because I wanted to know if they continued working on the Morocco team that finished fourth in 2022, finished fourth in 2022, finished fourth in 2022, and this team has to be and this team has to be and this team has to be respected, you know? respected, you know? respected, you know? The way they went toe-to-toe with Brazil, they The way they went toe-to-toe with Brazil, they The way they went toe-to-toe with Brazil, they have to be respected. They're not a have to be respected. They're not a have to be respected. They're not a small country anymore, they have small country anymore, they have small country anymore, they have world-class stars too. Uh, at PSG, and you don't have world-class stars too. Uh, at PSG, and you don't have world-class stars too. Uh, at PSG, and you don't have stars in that squad. stars in that squad. stars in that squad. The truth is, yes, I wanted to see how they The truth is, yes, I wanted to see how they The truth is, yes, I wanted to see how they played, and well, what played, and well, what played, and well, what I said happened.

I said happened. I said happened. Uh, some things happened, other things did Uh, some things happened, other things did Uh, some things happened, other things did n't, but this one did. I'm not n't, but this one did. I'm not n't, but this one did. I'm not afraid of this Brazil. I think a afraid of this Brazil. I think a afraid of this Brazil. I think a lot of people aren't afraid of them. Uh, I didn't lot of people aren't afraid of them. Uh, I didn't lot of people aren't afraid of them. Uh, I didn't say I wasn't afraid of say I wasn't afraid of say I wasn't afraid of Vinicius either, Vinicius either, Vinicius either, but Vinicius pulled off an incredible play but Vinicius pulled off an incredible play but Vinicius pulled off an incredible play . He had a very . He had a very . He had a very good season, I think he was in contention for the Ballon good season, I think he was in contention for the Ballon good season, I think he was in contention for the Ballon d'Or about two years ago. d'Or about two years ago. d'Or about two years ago. He scored that goal during that season. He scored that goal during that season. He scored that goal during that season. Bicycle kick, he takes on the defender, curls it in, Bicycle kick, he takes on the defender, curls it in, Bicycle kick, he takes on the defender, curls it in, and a great goal. A great goal. Honestly. I'm not and a great goal. A great goal. Honestly. I'm not and a great goal. A great goal. Honestly. I'm not afraid of Vinicius, but he really did afraid of Vinicius, but he really did afraid of Vinicius, but he really did score a fantastic goal. That score a fantastic goal. That score a fantastic goal. That was the game I wanted to was the game I wanted to was the game I wanted to see. I wanted to see if Brazil is see. I wanted to see if Brazil is see. I wanted to see if Brazil is seriously one of the favorites seriously one of the favorites seriously one of the favorites or if Morueco is still the or if Morueco is still the or if Morueco is still the team that surprised everyone in Qatar, team that surprised everyone in Qatar, team that surprised everyone in Qatar, but now it's no longer a surprise, it's but now it's no longer a surprise, it's but now it's no longer a surprise, it's established. In my humble opinion, established. In my humble opinion, established. In my humble opinion, no, I totally agree. It's no, I totally agree. It's no, I totally agree. It's not a surprise, they're already not a surprise, they're already not a surprise, they're already showing that 2022 wasn't a showing that 2022 wasn't a showing that 2022 wasn't a fluke. fluke. fluke. Exactly. Exactly. Exactly. It was, It was, It was, I mean, it came about like, "Oh man, where did these guys I mean, it came about like, "Oh man, where did these guys I mean, it came about like, "Oh man, where did these guys come from?" But now they're come from?" But now they're come from?" But now they're showing that they already had a showing that they already had a showing that they already had a process in place, that they're continuing that process in place, that they're continuing that process in place, that they're continuing that process, and that they are, I think, at a very, very process, and that they are, I think, at a very, very process, and that they are, I think, at a very, very good level to compete against good level to compete against good level to compete against anyone. Brazil, obviously I don't anyone. Brazil, obviously I don't anyone. Brazil, obviously I don't have Brazil in my top four have Brazil in my top four have Brazil in my top four , after the World Cup, , after the World Cup, , after the World Cup, if I were to rank them from the if I were to rank them from the if I were to rank them from the semifinalist to the champion, and so on.

semifinalist to the champion, and so on. semifinalist to the champion, and so on. I don't have Brazil there because I haven't I don't have Brazil there because I haven't I don't have Brazil there because I haven't seen Brazil seen Brazil seen Brazil as a strong team since the qualifiers. as a strong team since the qualifiers. as a strong team since the qualifiers. Actually, Brazil qualified fifth in Actually, Brazil qualified fifth in Actually, Brazil qualified fifth in The South American qualifiers, The South American qualifiers, The South American qualifiers, so it hasn't been the Brazil of so it hasn't been the Brazil of so it hasn't been the Brazil of yesteryear. yesteryear. yesteryear. And if it weren't for that goal by Vinicius, And if it weren't for that goal by Vinicius, And if it weren't for that goal by Vinicius, I think Morocco would have had them on I think Morocco would have had them on I think Morocco would have had them on top of them, top of them, top of them, right? Well, they really press like dogs. I right? Well, they really press like dogs. I right? Well, they really press like dogs. I also want to say it like this, I feel bad saying it also want to say it like this, I feel bad saying it also want to say it like this, I feel bad saying it , but that's how you have to , but that's how you have to , but that's how you have to press, you understand? To put press, you understand? To put press, you understand? To put pressure on them so they lose the ball. I pressure on them so they lose the ball. I was looking at football, three red shirts behind one was looking at football, three red shirts behind one yellow one. And that's how you have to yellow one. And that's how you have to yellow one. And that's how you have to press, press, press, right? Look, for example, Paquetá was under right? Look, for example, Paquetá was under right? Look, for example, Paquetá was under so much pressure that he made, so much pressure that he made, so much pressure that he made, I think, four or five bad passes in a row, I think, four or five bad passes in a row, giving them to the opponent because they giving them to the opponent because they were all over him. were all over him. were all over him. So football has evolved. So football has evolved. So football has evolved. Before it was about passing, passing Before it was about passing, passing Before it was about passing, passing here, passing there. That doesn't work anymore. here, passing there. That doesn't work anymore. here, passing there. That doesn't work anymore. Yes. Now it's more physical, right? Yes. Now it's more physical, right? Yes. Now it's more physical, right? Physical, intensity. If you don't run, it's 11. Physical, intensity. If you don't run, it's 11. Physical, intensity. If you don't run, it's 11. Well, the goalkeeper doesn't count, he counts Well, the goalkeeper doesn't count, he counts Well, the goalkeeper doesn't count, he counts when he's making saves, obviously, when he's making saves, obviously, when he's making saves, obviously, but teams count him as but teams count him as but teams count him as another player to pass the ball.

another player to pass the ball. another player to pass the ball. Exactly. So it's 11 attacking, 11 Exactly. So it's 11 attacking, 11 Exactly. So it's 11 attacking, 11 defending. If You have 11 attacking and 10 defending. If You have 11 attacking and 10 defending. If You have 11 attacking and 10 defending on the other side, defending on the other side, defending on the other side, they have numerical superiority and that's going to they have numerical superiority and that's going to they have numerical superiority and that's going to affect you. affect you. affect you. And speaking of Paquetá, that play And speaking of Paquetá, that play And speaking of Paquetá, that play before the end of the first half before the end of the first half before the end of the first half that looked like something out of Nintendo, if he'd scored it that looked like something out of Nintendo, if he'd scored it that looked like something out of Nintendo, if he'd scored it would have been a screamer. The goal of the would have been a screamer. The goal of the would have been a screamer. The goal of the World Cup. He cemented his place there. He cemented his place World Cup. He cemented his place there. He cemented his place World Cup. He cemented his place there. He cemented his place then, but well, I've saved then, but well, I've saved the best for last. the best for last. Okay. I was going to tell you. You're missing one Okay. I was going to tell you. You're missing one Okay. I was going to tell you. You're missing one game, David. You're missing one game. game, David. You're missing one game. game, David. You're missing one game. How could you think I'd How could you think I'd How could you think I'd leave that out? So, this section leave that out? So, this section leave that out? So, this section is called Deep Dive, in-depth analysis, and is called Deep Dive, in-depth analysis, and is called Deep Dive, in-depth analysis, and I saved it to wrap things up, I saved it to wrap things up, I saved it to wrap things up, okay? I okay? I okay? I mean, to save the best for last. The mean, to save the best for last. The mean, to save the best for last. The United States. United States. United States. Yes. Yes. Yes. I was surprised. I'll be I was surprised. I'll be I was surprised. I'll be honest, I didn't think the United honest, I didn't think the United States would make it out of the States would make it out of the group stage. That says it all. group stage. That says it all. group stage. That says it all. Wow. Okay. Wow. Okay. Wow. Okay. Because they have a tough group.

Because they have a tough group. Because they have a tough group. I know what Paraguay does. I I know what Paraguay does. I I know what Paraguay does. I mean, it's a difficult group, mean, it's a difficult group, mean, it's a difficult group, right? Correct. You know Paraguay in South America right? Correct. You know Paraguay in South America right? Correct. You know Paraguay in South America . . . I I said, "No, Paraguay sits back I I said, "No, Paraguay sits back I I said, "No, Paraguay sits back like Alfaro's teams, like Alfaro's teams, like Alfaro's teams, which are extremely which are extremely which are extremely defensive and attack you on the defensive and attack you on the defensive and attack you on the counter-attack and kill you counter-attack and kill you counter-attack and kill you there." there." there." That's what I expected. I didn't That's what I expected. I didn't That's what I expected. I didn't expect the United States to expect the United States to expect the United States to come out and dominate Paraguay and expose them come out and dominate Paraguay and expose them come out and dominate Paraguay and expose them , lay them bare, showed them as a , lay them bare, showed them as a , lay them bare, showed them as a small team that wasn't prepared for the small team that wasn't prepared for the small team that wasn't prepared for the World Cup. And I think part of it was World Cup. And I think part of it was World Cup. And I think part of it was Paraguay playing that old-fashioned style of football, Paraguay playing that old-fashioned style of football, Paraguay playing that old-fashioned style of football, right? right? right? Trying to play a possession game, right? Trying to play a possession game, right? Trying to play a possession game, right? Football is fast. Football is fast. Football is fast. And the United States gave them a And the United States gave them a And the United States gave them a masterclass in football. Yes, practically beautiful yoga masterclass in football. Yes, practically beautiful yoga masterclass in football. Yes, practically beautiful yoga . . . Yes, I'd say that's the best team I've Yes, I'd say that's the best team I've Yes, I'd say that's the best team I've seen so far, and now seen so far, and now seen so far, and now that I saw that, I said, "Well, now I have to that I saw that, I said, "Well, now I have to that I saw that, I said, "Well, now I have to change my thinking about how change my thinking about how change my thinking about how far the United States can go far the United States can go far the United States can go ." Because if they keep playing that ." Because if they keep playing that ." Because if they keep playing that way, forget it.

way, forget it. way, forget it. No, but okay, there's the debate, No, but okay, there's the debate, No, but okay, there's the debate, right? We get carried away by right? We get carried away by right? We get carried away by one result, right? one result, right? And if they lose the next game, what's And if they lose the next game, what's going to happen? Exactly. Yes, yes, yes. going to happen? Exactly. Yes, yes, yes. going to happen? Exactly. Yes, yes, yes. So, the question is, So, the question is, So, the question is, yes. yes. yes. If they can do it again, if they If they can do it again, if they If they can do it again, if they can play like that again. can play like that again. can play like that again. No, when I asked for Pochettino for the No, when I asked for Pochettino for the No, when I asked for Pochettino for the US national team, this is what US national team, this is what US national team, this is what I had in mind: I had in mind: I had in mind: attacking football, football that goes out to attacking football, football that goes out to attacking football, football that goes out to score. That's what I asked of the score. That's what I asked of the score. That's what I asked of the US national team, and that's what I US national team, and that's what I US national team, and that's what I ask of the Houston Dynamo. ask of the Houston Dynamo. ask of the Houston Dynamo. Right. The US has Right. The US has Right. The US has talented players, they have incredible talent, talented players, they have incredible talent, talented players, they have incredible talent, and now Pulisic, Mikini, and I'm forgetting and now Pulisic, Mikini, and I'm forgetting and now Pulisic, Mikini, and I'm forgetting Adams are the veterans, and now they have Adams are the veterans, and now they have Adams are the veterans, and now they have a youth team ahead of them. Balgun, a youth team ahead of them. Balgun, a youth team ahead of them. Balgun, the top scorer, 20, 21, 22 years old, the the top scorer, 20, 21, 22 years old, the the top scorer, 20, 21, 22 years old, the right-back, right-back, right-back, 21 years old. And there's also a 21 years old. And there's also a 21 years old. And there's also a midfielder I'm forgetting who plays midfielder I'm forgetting who plays midfielder I'm forgetting who plays in Germany, he's young. I in Germany, he's young. I respect Pochettino for doing two respect Pochettino for doing two things: one, calling up those young players, calling up things: one, calling up those young players, calling up things: one, calling up those young players, calling up the Europeans, the Europeans, the Europeans, right, calling up the most talented.

right, calling up the most talented. right, calling up the most talented. Two, for playing that attacking football that Two, for playing that attacking football that Two, for playing that attacking football that I... I asked for the national team because I... I asked for the national team because I... I asked for the national team because you have the players to do it. you have the players to do it. you have the players to do it. Serginho Dest. I always said it, I Serginho Dest. I always said it, I Serginho Dest. I always said it, I love how he plays. love how he plays. love how he plays. He looks like Dani Alves, but no offense, I do He looks like Dani Alves, but no offense, I do He looks like Dani Alves, but no offense, I do n't mean to disrespect Dani Alves, n't mean to disrespect Dani Alves, n't mean to disrespect Dani Alves, Dani Alves' style of play, a Dani Alves' style of play, a Dani Alves' style of play, a right-back who attacks, but you right-back who attacks, but you right-back who attacks, but you look at him and say, "What's this guy doing look at him and say, "What's this guy doing look at him and say, "What's this guy doing playing defense?" playing defense?" playing defense?" And Pochettino put him up front. And Pochettino put him up front. And Pochettino put him up front. Pochettino put him up front Pochettino put him up front Pochettino put him up front almost as a striker almost as a striker almost as a striker and that's where Serginho shone, playing as a number 10 on that wing, and that's where Serginho shone, playing as a number 10 on that wing, and that's where Serginho shone, playing as a number 10 on that wing, and Pulisic. I always said, they wanted to and Pulisic. I always said, they wanted to and Pulisic. I always said, they wanted to force him to play as a number 10. They wanted to. He's not a number force him to play as a number 10. They wanted to. He's not a number force him to play as a number 10. They wanted to. He's not a number 10. He's not a number 10. He's a number seven on 10. He's not a number 10. He's a number seven on 10. He's not a number 10. He's a number seven on the left wing, taking on defenders, and in the the left wing, taking on defenders, and in the the left wing, taking on defenders, and in the first goal, which was an own goal, right? first goal, which was an own goal, right? first goal, which was an own goal, right? But you saw how he tricked himself and got But you saw how he tricked himself and got But you saw how he tricked himself and got between the two defenders. Uh. That's where between the two defenders. Uh. That's where between the two defenders. Uh. That's where Pulisic shines. Pulisic shines. Pulisic shines. No, man, the truth is I was No, man, the truth is I was No, man, the truth is I was wrong. I was wrong. I didn't wrong. I was wrong. I didn't wrong. I was wrong. I didn't say they were going to be eliminated in the group stage, say they were going to be eliminated in the group stage, say they were going to be eliminated in the group stage, but this team impressed but this team impressed but this team impressed everyone.

everyone. everyone. Now, What's he going to do in the second Now, What's he going to do in the second Now, What's he going to do in the second game? That one, and now that Australia won game? That one, and now that Australia won game? That one, and now that Australia won last night—for those of you who fell asleep like I did, last night—for those of you who fell asleep like I did, last night—for those of you who fell asleep like I did, Australia won 2-0. Australia won 2-0. Australia won 2-0. 2-0. So, Australia vs. the 2-0. So, Australia vs. the 2-0. So, Australia vs. the United States to advance to the next round. United States to advance to the next round. United States to advance to the next round. Look, after seeing the United States Look, after seeing the United States Look, after seeing the United States and what I know about Australia, I said, and what I know about Australia, I said, and what I know about Australia, I said, "Well, the United States, after what I "Well, the United States, after what I "Well, the United States, after what I saw, is going to blow them away." But yesterday saw, is going to blow them away." But yesterday saw, is going to blow them away." But yesterday I saw Australia and I said, "No way, man, I saw Australia and I said, "No way, man, I saw Australia and I said, "No way, man, Australia is also playing at a Australia is also playing at a Australia is also playing at a level I didn't even imagine." So, now there level I didn't even imagine." So, now there level I didn't even imagine." So, now there are two teams playing with are two teams playing with are two teams playing with intensity. That's going to be a great game. A great intensity. That's going to be a great game. A great intensity. That's going to be a great game. A great game, a game, a game, a great game. You'd think, " great game. You'd think, " No, that's no good. No, that's no good. I'm going to watch it now." Yeah, like, I'm going to I'm going to watch it now." Yeah, like, I'm going to I'm going to watch it now." Yeah, like, I'm going to sleep on that one, I'm not going to watch it. No, that's going to be sleep on that one, I'm not going to watch it. No, that's going to be sleep on that one, I'm not going to watch it. No, that's going to be a great game, one you'll want to see from the a great game, one you'll want to see from the a great game, one you'll want to see from the balcony. If you're here for the balcony. If you're here for the balcony. If you're here for the fan fest, that's going to be the game to go fan fest, that's going to be the game to go fan fest, that's going to be the game to go see. Right? see. Right? see. Right? Absolutely. The game Absolutely. The game Absolutely. The game is for the second round. is for the second round. is for the second round. Totally. Totally. Totally. So I think we can all agree that we have to So I think we can all agree that we have to So I think we can all agree that we have to take it one step at a time.

take it one step at a time. take it one step at a time. Yes. There's no need to rush. Mexico Yes. There's no need to rush. Mexico is obviously the contrast, right? The United States is obviously the contrast, right? The United States here, Mexico over here, but both here, Mexico over here, but both here, Mexico over here, but both won. In the end, what matters is won. In the end, what matters is won. In the end, what matters is winning, getting the three points. The winning, getting the three points. The winning, getting the three points. The next match is different. You might next match is different. You might next match is different. You might have a match where nothing have a match where nothing have a match where nothing goes right and a match where goes right and a match where goes right and a match where everything goes right, like the United States. Well, yes, everything goes right, like the United States. Well, yes, everything goes right, like the United States. Well, yes, that happens. It's football. National teams are that happens. It's football. National teams are that happens. It's football. National teams are n't like there's a favorite and n't like there's a favorite and n't like there's a favorite and an underdog anymore, I don't know how to an underdog anymore, I don't know how to an underdog anymore, I don't know how to say it in Spanish, say it in Spanish, say it in Spanish, but but but football has leveled the playing field to the point where you ca football has leveled the playing field to the point where you ca n't look down on anyone, you can't n't look down on anyone, you can't look down on them anymore, look down on them anymore, look down on them anymore, and if you're disrespectful, they'll disrespect you and if you're disrespectful, they'll disrespect you and if you're disrespectful, they'll disrespect you on the field, they'll make you pay on the field, they'll make you pay on the field, they'll make you pay . They'll make you pay. They'll make you . They'll make you pay. They'll make you . They'll make you pay. They'll make you pay. What's more, right now, pay. What's more, right now, pay. What's more, right now, in an hour, in an hour, in an hour, the first match is going to be played in the first match is going to be played in the first match is going to be played in Houston, and we don't have the Houston, and we don't have the Houston, and we don't have the opportunity to go, but at some point, we'll get the chance opportunity to go, but at some point, we'll get the chance opportunity to go, but at some point, we'll get the chance , we'll get the chance.

, we'll get the chance. , we'll get the chance. Yes, yes, yes. Yes, yes, yes. Yes, yes, yes. Uh, Germany vs. Curaçao One says, "No, Uh, Germany vs. Curaçao One says, "No, Uh, Germany vs. Curaçao One says, "No, Germany is going to steamroll them." If Germany is going to steamroll them." If Germany is going to steamroll them." If you use logic, right? On paper, you use logic, right? On paper, you use logic, right? On paper, Germany is going to steamroll them. But Germany is going to steamroll them. But Germany is going to steamroll them. But wait, you don't know what players wait, you don't know what players wait, you don't know what players Curaçao has. We were talking about that before we Curaçao has. We were talking about that before we Curaçao has. We were talking about that before we started. There might be players who started. There might be players who started. There might be players who are in the Premier League, are in the Premier League, are in the Premier League, in elite leagues, in elite leagues, in elite leagues, but maybe when they get to the but maybe when they get to the but maybe when they get to the national team, people don't know that those national team, people don't know that those national team, people don't know that those players, oh, I see him playing there, players, oh, I see him playing there, players, oh, I see him playing there, there, there, they come together, and there, there, they come together, and there, there, they come together, and to give an example, Haiti, to give an example, Haiti, to give an example, Haiti, yes, last night, yes, last night, yes, last night, last night I was totally last night I was totally last night I was totally surprised by Haiti. surprised by Haiti. surprised by Haiti. I wasn't surprised. What I wasn't surprised. What I wasn't surprised. What saddened me was that they couldn't capitalize on their saddened me was that they couldn't capitalize on their saddened me was that they couldn't capitalize on their opportunities. opportunities. opportunities. They had them, they had them, They had them, they had them, They had them, they had them, they had them. they had them. they had them. Because I watched the Because I watched the Because I watched the CONCACAF qualifiers closely, and obviously my CONCACAF qualifiers closely, and obviously my CONCACAF qualifiers closely, and obviously my country was fighting among them, country was fighting among them, country was fighting among them, but Suriname didn't qualify, but but Suriname didn't qualify, but but Suriname didn't qualify, but Suriname, Haiti, Curaçao didn't just Suriname, Haiti, Curaçao didn't just Suriname, Haiti, Curaçao didn't just win, they earned their place by convincing win, they earned their place by convincing win, they earned their place by convincing our countries, you understand?

our countries, you understand? our countries, you understand? Yes. They Yes. They Yes. They earned their spot in the World Cup. They're earned their spot in the World Cup. They're earned their spot in the World Cup. They're not just happy about it. Here. I'm expecting a not just happy about it. Here. I'm expecting a not just happy about it. Here. I'm expecting a good match. Let's see what happens. Let's good match. Let's see what happens. Let's good match. Let's see what happens. Let's see. Let's see. Well, and now to see. Let's see. Well, and now to see. Let's see. Well, and now to wrap things up, we're reaching the wrap things up, we're reaching the wrap things up, we're reaching the final segment called The Final final segment called The Final final segment called The Final Whistle, the final whistle. And there are a lot of Whistle, the final whistle. And there are a lot of Whistle, the final whistle. And there are a lot of people who have never been people who have never been people who have never been excited about soccer. excited about soccer. excited about soccer. Yes. Yes. Yes. Right now, I think it's because it's in the United States Right now, I think it's because it's in the United States Right now, I think it's because it's in the United States . . . Yes. Yes. Yes. There's a lot of anticipation, a lot of There's a lot of anticipation, a lot of There's a lot of anticipation, a lot of buzz. buzz. buzz. Yes. Yes. Yes. If you tell someone, "Look, this If you tell someone, "Look, this If you tell someone, "Look, this match is going to hook you." You've never match is going to hook you." You've never match is going to hook you." You've never watched soccer, but they're interested. Is there a watched soccer, but they're interested. Is there a watched soccer, but they're interested. Is there a match that you say, "This match that you say, "This match that you say, "This is the match you have to see?" is the match you have to see?" is the match you have to see?" You know, I didn't study the matches, but You know, I didn't study the matches, but You know, I didn't study the matches, but one comes to mind because when I one comes to mind because when I one comes to mind because when I was watching the group stage, was watching the group stage, was watching the group stage, I said, "Oh, this is a great match." I said, "Oh, this is a great match." I said, "Oh, this is a great match." Yes. In Guadalajara, the Uruguayan national team is going to play Yes. In Guadalajara, the Uruguayan national team is going to play Yes. In Guadalajara, the Uruguayan national team is going to play against Spain. against Spain. against Spain. That's going to be a great match, That's going to be a great match, That's going to be a great match, and it's going to be in Guadalajara. So, the and it's going to be in Guadalajara. So, the and it's going to be in Guadalajara. So, the atmosphere, the Mexican spirit, will be atmosphere, the Mexican spirit, will be atmosphere, the Mexican spirit, will be felt in the stands.

felt in the stands. felt in the stands. I say that's going to be a great match, I say that's going to be a great match, I say that's going to be a great match, honestly. honestly. honestly. No, the claw is roaring. No, the claw is roaring. No, the claw is roaring. Phew! And what Spain has brought this year, Phew! And what Spain has brought this year, Phew! And what Spain has brought this year, well, in recent years, they've well, in recent years, they've well, in recent years, they've shown a shown a shown a top team. top team. top team. Yes. I Yes. I Yes. I mean, there it is. If you want to see mean, there it is. If you want to see mean, there it is. If you want to see a match, a great match, and you don't a match, a great match, and you don't a match, a great match, and you don't know much about football but want to learn about it know much about football but want to learn about it know much about football but want to learn about it and maybe fall in love with this and maybe fall in love with this and maybe fall in love with this sport that we're so passionate about, then sport that we're so passionate about, then sport that we're so passionate about, then watch that match. watch that match. watch that match. And I'll give you two more. And I'll give you two more. And I'll give you two more. Let's see, Let's see, Let's see, for someone who doesn't know much about football, for someone who doesn't know much about football, for someone who doesn't know much about football, right? Well, obviously you have to watch right? Well, obviously you have to watch right? Well, obviously you have to watch Portugal Portugal Portugal or Argentina. Ah, well, yes, or Argentina. Ah, well, yes, or Argentina. Ah, well, yes, yes, for someone who doesn't know much about football, yes, for someone who doesn't know much about football, yes, for someone who doesn't know much about football, because they only hear about Cristiano Ronaldo because they only hear about Cristiano Ronaldo because they only hear about Cristiano Ronaldo or Messi. or Messi. or Messi. And one thing I forgot to mention on the And one thing I forgot to mention on the And one thing I forgot to mention on the show we were on last week, show we were on last week, show we were on last week, this World Cup is going to be the World Cup that this World Cup is going to be the World Cup that this World Cup is going to be the World Cup that Messi is playing without any pressure. Messi is playing without any pressure. Messi is playing without any pressure. He's on cloud nine, he's relaxed. Do He's on cloud nine, he's relaxed. Do He's on cloud nine, he's relaxed. Do you know how dangerous that can be? you know how dangerous that can be? you know how dangerous that can be? Phew!

Phew! Phew! He's relaxed, he's not He's relaxed, he's not He's relaxed, he's not sad, he's not worried about anything, sad, he's not worried about anything, sad, he's not worried about anything, he's relaxed, he's already won what he was going to he's relaxed, he's already won what he was going to he's relaxed, he's already won what he was going to win, and if If he wins this one, forget it. win, and if If he wins this one, forget it. win, and if If he wins this one, forget it. No, it's just a bonus. It's a bonus for him. No, it's just a bonus. It's a bonus for him. No, it's just a bonus. It's a bonus for him. It's a bonus. Yes, there's another It's a bonus. Yes, there's another It's a bonus. Yes, there's another game, uh, no, because I don't know if you've game, uh, no, because I don't know if you've game, uh, no, because I don't know if you've noticed, I have a noticed, I have a noticed, I have a Colombian accent, Colombian accent, Colombian accent, but there's another really good game that I but there's another really good game that I but there's another really good game that I 'm also very excited about: Colombia vs. 'm also very excited about: Colombia vs. 'm also very excited about: Colombia vs. Portugal. Portugal. Portugal. Oh, that's another one. And in Miami, right? Oh, that's another one. And in Miami, right? Oh, that's another one. And in Miami, right? Miami. Miami. Miami. Wow! That's going to be packed with Wow! That's going to be packed with Wow! That's going to be packed with Colombians. Colombians. Colombians. I want to see how I want to see how I want to see how Colombia responds. Colombia responds. Colombia responds. Colombia is going to be playing at home. Colombia is going to be playing at home. Colombia is going to be playing at home. Colombia is going to be playing at home. I think Colombia is going to be playing at home. I think Colombia is going to be playing at home. I think Portugal doesn't know that. Portugal doesn't know that. Portugal doesn't know that. Colombia is playing at home. Colombia is playing at home. Colombia is playing at home. Colombia is playing at home, but they don't just come back and Colombia is playing at home, but they don't just come back and Colombia is playing at home, but they don't just come back and play. I don't know if that pressure is going to play. I don't know if that pressure is going to play. I don't know if that pressure is going to work against them. I hope not. I work against them. I hope not. I work against them. I hope not. I hope not. hope not. hope not. What Colombia has, I'm telling you, What Colombia has, I'm telling you, What Colombia has, I'm telling you, because I'm Colombian and I follow the because I'm Colombian and I follow the because I'm Colombian and I follow the team, what Colombia has is a team, what Colombia has is a team, what Colombia has is a generation of outstanding players. I generation of outstanding players. I generation of outstanding players. I mean, Luis Díaz, James, I mean, there's a mean, Luis Díaz, James, I mean, there's a mean, Luis Díaz, James, I mean, there's a generation of players who are at a high generation of players who are at a high generation of players who are at a high level at their clubs.

level at their clubs. level at their clubs. Colombia as a team Colombia as a team Colombia as a team hasn't found that chemistry yet. hasn't found that chemistry yet. hasn't found that chemistry yet. Okay. Okay. Okay. So, if If you start relying on individual brilliance from players like So, if If you start relying on individual brilliance from players like Luis Díaz and James, that could be Luis Díaz and James, that could be Colombia's Achilles' heel. Colombia's Achilles' heel. Colombia's Achilles' heel. But we'll see. So, But we'll see. So, But we'll see. So, those are the matches we those are the matches we those are the matches we recommend. If you want to recommend. If you want to recommend. If you want to watch two good games, watch two good games, watch two good games, Spain, Uruguay, Spain, Uruguay, Spain, Uruguay, Colombia, and Portugal. Well, there are more, but those are the ones Colombia, and Portugal. Well, there are more, but those are the ones Colombia, and Portugal. Well, there are more, but those are the ones that stand out. that stand out. that stand out. So, So, So, I think that's it. We were able to cover I think that's it. We were able to cover I think that's it. We were able to cover everything in 30 minutes. That's the idea, that everything in 30 minutes. That's the idea, that everything in 30 minutes. That's the idea, that you don't get tired of listening to us talk, you don't get tired of listening to us talk, you don't get tired of listening to us talk, that you don't get bored, that you don't get bored, that you don't get bored, that instead of Telemundo, you watch CG Sports that instead of Telemundo, you watch CG Sports that instead of Telemundo, you watch CG Sports Media. Media. Media. That's right, CG Sports Media, CG Sports Spot. That's right, CG Sports Media, CG Sports Spot. That's right, CG Sports Media, CG Sports Spot. We'll be here every We'll be here every We'll be here every weekend, Sundays at 10 weekend, Sundays at 10 weekend, Sundays at 10 a.m., so make plans, a.m., so make plans, a.m., so make plans, connect with us, interact with connect with us, interact with connect with us, interact with us on social media, and again, us on social media, and again, us on social media, and again, leave your comments, do it respectfully leave your comments, do it respectfully leave your comments, do it respectfully so we can all have a good so we can all have a good so we can all have a good experience. So, Germán, experience. So, Germán, experience. So, Germán, thank you very much for being here, thank you very much for being here, thank you very much for being here, right? Thank you for the invitation, I enjoyed it, I right? Thank you for the invitation, I enjoyed it, I right? Thank you for the invitation, I enjoyed it, I wish you all the best. A success. What a beautiful wish you all the best. A success. What a beautiful wish you all the best. A success. What a beautiful studio, really.

studio, really. studio, really. Thank you so much, we Thank you so much, we Thank you so much, we had a great time. Well, let's see if had a great time. Well, let's see if had a great time. Well, let's see if Germán comes back and accepts our Germán comes back and accepts our Germán comes back and accepts our invitation. It's truly a pleasure to invitation. It's truly a pleasure to invitation. It's truly a pleasure to have him, and well, that's it for have him, and well, that's it for have him, and well, that's it for today. We hope to see you next today. We hope to see you next today. We hope to see you next week at 10 a.m. on week at 10 a.m. on week at 10 a.m. on CG Sports Pod, your passion, CG Sports Pod, your passion, CG Sports Pod, your passion, our podcast. Thanks for tuning in.