First Touch ’26 - France

First Touch ’26 - France

Author: Kickback Soccer Media December 3, 2025 Duration: 19:07

For most countries, just qualifying for the World Cup is a dream. For France, it’s World Cup trophy or failure. In this World Cup Capsule, David Gass dives into the story of Les Bleus: a global powerhouse with two World Cups, two Euros, and a conveyor belt of stars that runs from Just Fontaine and Michel Platini to Zinedine Zidane and Kylian Mbappé. We trace France’s boom-or-bust history, from the magic of 1998 and Euro 2000 to their shocking 2002 group-stage exit, the chaos and player revolt of 2010, and their return to dominance under Didier Deschamps, capped with the 2018 title and an all-time classic final in 2022. Along the way, we explore Clairefontaine and the academy system that keeps producing world-class talent and why Mbappé’s prime years might make 2026 a “final or bust” for one of the deepest squads on the planet. We wrap with superstition, street football, and the tiny details that make France brilliant.  


For fans feeling the growing buzz as the world turns toward North America, Kickback '26 is the essential audio companion. This podcast from Kickback Soccer Media digs into the long road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but it’s about far more than just counting down the days. Here, you’ll find a blend of rich storytelling and sharp, modern analysis that connects the tournament to the wider culture of the sport. The focus is on delivering distinct, American-driven perspectives that welcome everyone, from those just discovering soccer to lifelong devotees. Each episode serves as a guide, exploring the narratives, personalities, and strategic shifts that are defining this unique moment in time. It’s about placing the upcoming World Cup within a larger context, examining how the game is evolving both on and off the pitch. By weaving together premium audio documentaries, candid discussions, and cultural commentary, this series creates a comprehensive portrait of soccer’s present and future. The journey through this podcast doesn’t end with the final whistle in 2026; it looks ahead to the legacy the tournament will leave and the stories that will continue to unfold. Tune in for an inclusive, thoughtful, and deeply engaging take on the beautiful game as it builds toward its biggest stage.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 70

Kickback '26
Podcast Episodes
First Touch Dispatch Presented by Soccer.com | Ep. 5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:49
On this episode of First Touch Dispatch we give the latest updates on injuries forcing players to withdraw from the tournament, a record breaking counterfeit merchandise bust, and a closer look at the new rules being imp…
First Touch Dispatch Presented by Soccer.com | Ep. 4 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:03
On this week's edition of First Touch Dispatch, we dive into the latest news surrounding the World Cup. Iran has officially moved their basecamp to Mexico, Messi has an injury scare, and the USMNT roster is now OFFICIALL…
First Touch '26 - Bosnia and Herzegovina [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:23
Bosnia and Herzegovina returns to the World Cup with one of international soccer’s most emotional national team stories. We explore the country’s complex football history, the memories of Bosnia’s first World Cup appeara…
First Touch ’26 - Sweden [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:51
Sweden returns to the World Cup with a history bigger than many realize and a new generation trying to add to it. We break down the Blue and Yellow’s controversial road to 2026, Graham Potter’s influence, Lukas Bergvall’…
First Touch ’26 - DR Congo [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:40
Susannah Fuller is joined by Stadio’s Musa Okwonga for a conversation about DR Congo’s return to the World Cup after more than 50 years away. Together, they discuss the country’s history and identity through soccer, the…
First Touch Dispatch Presented by Soccer.com | Ep. 3 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 13:04
On this episode of First Touch Dispatch, we dive into roster announcements, players getting political and a deep look into the mass amount of injuries heading into this World Cup. All that and more on this edition of Fir…