First Touch '26 World Cup Daily Show: Spain's Late Heroics Knock Out Belgium, Haaland, Kane & Messi Take the Stage

First Touch '26 World Cup Daily Show: Spain's Late Heroics Knock Out Belgium, Haaland, Kane & Messi Take the Stage

Author: Kickback Soccer Media July 11, 2026 Duration: 54:05

Mikel Merino's winner sent Spain past Belgium and into the World Cup semifinals. David Gass, Michele Giannone and Matt Doyle break down Spain's dramatic quarterfinal victory before previewing the final two quarterfinals: Harry Kane and England's showdown with Erling Haaland and Norway, plus Lionel Messi and Argentina taking on Switzerland with the last two semifinal spots on the line.

0:00 Intro

5:18 Belgium Comes Up Short, Courtois Injury

13:04 Spain, Lineup Decisions & Looking Ahead to France

25:00 How Does Norway Setup Against England?

30:13 Starting Lineup Questions for England

32:35 The World Cup of Erling Haaland

36:30 England vs. Norway Predictions

41:26 Argentina Starting XI Decisions

48:38 Can Switzerland Challenge?


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: 50

First Touch '26 World Cup Podcast
Podcast Episodes
First Touch: CONCACAF's Road to the 2030 World Cup [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:28
After hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where does CONCACAF go from here? David Gass and Matt Doyle break down the region's biggest contenders, emerging stars and the teams to watch as the road to the 2030 FIFA World Cup…
First Touch 2030 World Cup Preview From Africa [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:48
The road to the 2030 World Cup starts in Africa.David Gass and Matt Doyle take stock of African soccer after the 2026 World Cup, discuss the continent's next chapter with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on the hor…
First Touch '26 World Cup Daily Show: World Cup Awards Show [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:40
Susannah Fuller, Matt Doyle and David Gass celebrate the best of the 2026 World Cup by handing out their tournament awards before wrapping up the show with a preview of the third-place match between France and England.0:…