Soccer 2 the MAX

Ghana made it through their qualifying campaign thanks to an away goal from Thomas Partey and now find themselves in Group H with Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea. This is Know Your Teams where history, the route to the tournament (in this case the 2022 FIFA World Cup), coaching, players, and opponents are detailed and discussed in how it could all make a difference in how far they could go. So be sure to subscribe as this weekly team preview series continues. You can watch this in video format here: https://youtu.be/XKSLZgftaEIAlso, since Ghana has so many rumored players that may wind up making a decision to play for the team prior to the World Cup, this is discussed as well before making a final decision on a best-case scenario for the tournament too, which is the main reason why this is episode goes over the hour mark. * This was recorded on the same day Eddie Nketiah and Callum Hudson-Odoi had confirmed they would play for Ghana. At that time the other players mentioned at the end of the video including Tariq Lamptey had not been confirmed yet. I will be giving updates to any teams that are covered in this series in later podcasts. *

On the fifth time of asking a Major League Soccer club has finally won the CONCACAF Champions League. Seattle Sounders FC came in as favorites and came through some adversity with injuries early on, but in the end, their depth and quality shone through with a 3-0 win on the night and 5-2 on aggregate, the gold standard of MLS become the first US side to win the CCL. Erik and Sean discuss how big the moment really is, the players that made it happen, and what it means to be going to the FIFA Club World Cup as well. Also, the UEFA Champions League has an England vs Spain final as Liverpool dispatched Villarreal 5-2 on aggregate after a nervy first half that saw the Yellow Submarine make a comeback. However, this pales in comparison to the comeback the Spanish champions Real Madrid pulled off against Manchester City. After a quiet game, they exploded at the last minutes to force Extra Time and win it, in the end, to compete for their potentially 14th Champions League crown. Russia receives further bans from UEFA removing the Women's team from this summer's Women's EURO 2022, relegating the Russian Men's side to the third tier of the Nations League, and even banning them from UEFA Youth competitions too.You can also watch the show on video here:  https://youtu.be/e6_iK4IK_nQ

The Islamic Republic of Iran qualified not only at the top of their group in the 2022 Asian Football Confederation World Cup Qualifying but also as the overall best team in said qualifying, and they are the top-ranked Asian side as well.Drawn in Group B with England, USA, and TBA team of either Scotland, Wales, or Ukraine, Team Melli looks to make it to the Round of 16 for the first time ever. This is Know Your Teams, a weekly series on each team competing at the FIFA World Cup 2022. Sean and Erik go through each team's World Cup history, the road to the FIFA World Cup 2022, discuss the coach, some of the major and perhaps lesser-known players, formations, style of play, and of course also have a best-case scenario for each team as well.You can watch the show on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/dxtMrwLqwdg

Two Major League Soccer clubs have decided to make coaching changes with the San Jose Earthquakes sacking Matias Almeyda and D.C. United is due to sack Hernan Losada. Sean and Erik some of the story behind both firings, how Erik, as a DC United supporter feels about the move, and which team would be a better option for coaches looking at either job? The CONCACAF W Draw is done and joining the United States Women's National Team are rivals Mexico, the 2019 World Cup debutants Jamaica, and Haiti. Should there be any concern with the USWNT drawing the tougher teams out of the two groups? Is there a chance that anyone but Mexico going through this? Also, Group B sees Canada facing Costa Rica, Panama, and Trinidad & Tobago. Some Way Too Early Predictions are on the way. Finally, head scouts take their leave for Manchester United as Erik Ten Haag is all but appointed as the new United manager. After the whooping the squad received at the hands of Liverpool 4-0 there's a lot of talk about a sweeping revolution. Who are the players soon to be out, who should be sold, and could we really see 10 new players in one transfer window?Apologies for the background noise when Erik speaks in the first 5 to 8 minutes of the show, as Sean started recording as a family get-together was ending.The link to watch the episode on YouTube is here: https://youtu.be/8fSIR6ppIHEAnd while you're here, join us on Discord! https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d

There is just so much to talk about on this midweek edition of the Pod, as the CONCACAF Champions League Final is set with two longtime stalwarts of the respective leagues, Pumas U.N.A.M. vs. Seattle Sounders FC. However, the UEFA Champions League is what has grabbed the biggest headlines with some superb games, a major upset, and even some actual fighting too. The United States Women's National Team finish possibly their last window of victorious friendly matches with an 18-1 (9-1 and 9-0) over Uzbekistan. Can the young team take that forward into the upcoming CONCACAF W tournament in July? Speaking of, the field is now complete and all of the squads now know who will compete in Mexico to determine who winds up representing CONCACAF in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Who could deliver a surprise? Is there a chance for any upsets? Or will it remain as you expected? There's also the verbal agreement with Manchester United and Erik Ten Haag, Gio Reyna is injured again and is out for the rest of the club season, New England's freefall in MLS, and the announcement of a FIFA streaming service too.You can also watch the episode on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/lXR66ajmV94And while you're here, join us on Discord! https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d

The group stage is set and there are some tasty matchups everywhere, as Sean and Erik go through each one. Discussing the way too early chances for teams, way too early predictions, and way too early analysis of the squads. Obviously, there's a major focus from us on the three and potentially four CONCACAF teams, the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica. Where they landed, their chances of getting out of groups, and if there are any surprise runs that could happen. Get ready as this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to looking at the World Cup from us, as eventually, we will have closer looks at each team historically, how they play, and players to highlight before the final squads are named.

The United States Men's National Team only had to avoid defeat by six goals or more and they would return to the World Cup. Mission accomplished with only a 2-0 loss to a younger and more fiery Los Ticos side on the night. And while the game is ultimately meaningless in the grand scheme of things, Sean and Erik still a have few things to ponder in regards to what occurred. Should the USMNT's away form during qualifying be of any concern? How big a deal is it that the USMNT does not have a solidified striker as of yet and there are only two FIFA windows from here to when the 2022 FIFA World Cup begins on November 21 in Qatar. Should there be worry about the Goalkeeper position after two not so confident performances from Zack Steffen? Plus, one final look around CONCACAF as Mexico takes care of business against El Salvador in Azteca to actually finish in second place ahead of the USMNT. Canada loses in their final game as well and top the octagonal in the first place. Is it a done deal for Costa Rica against New Zealand? Not to mention, a look ahead to the World Cup Draw on Friday, the pots the teams are in, and the rest of the landscape around the globe for World Cup Qualifying too.Remember you can also watch Soccer 2 the MAX in video format here:  https://youtu.be/3oXvoBPav-YSean and Erik will be back sometime between Friday and Saturday to discuss the 2022 FIFA World Cup Draw, where the CONCACAF teams landed, and make some WAY TOO EARLY predictions on who gets out of the groups too. While you're here, check us out on Discord! https://discord.gg/aydMgvUN9d

The United States Men's National Team replicated their feat from 2017 in getting a blowout victory against Panama in the final home game of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying. Thus, eliminating said team in the process and putting the USMNT a mere 90 minutes and some decent play away from punching their ticket to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Christian Pulisic got the Hat Trick, and the FC Dallas duo of Jesus Ferreira and Paul Arriola nabbed the other two goals in the process. How much should we take from the win? Should there be worries about the sloppy play? Or is this all about the positives of less possession but more chances? Of course, there has to be some discussion on the individual performances too. Plus, thoughts on who should start on Wednesday and we go around CONCACAF as Canada officially qualifies to their first World Cup since 1986 after a 4-0 thrashing of Jamaica. Mexico grinds out another one in a 1-0 win against Honduras, and Costa Rica guarantees themselves at least an intercontinental playoff spot with a 2-1 win over El Salvador.

Sean and Erik discussing the USMNT's 3-0 victory over Honduras on a four-degree evening in St. Paul Minnesota.Set Pieces make their return as a prevalent story, Christian Pulisic doesn't start, is Kelyn Acosta now someone you have to think of as a specialist for the team, is Weston McKennie now the USA's best player?Plus, one final trip around CONCACAF as the stage is set for the final round in late March. Canada is extremely close to qualification. while the USA, Mexico, Panama, and Costa Rica all fight for the remaining three spots.

On a chilly day in Hamilton Ontario playing on concrete, the Canadian Men's National Team gets a huge win over the United States Men's National Team. An early goal set the stage for a tough afternoon for the USMNT as they had to deal with a team that was happy to sit back and soak up pressure. The USA had a lot of possession but don't do much with it. Is this down to the players or coach Gregg Berhalter in being married to his system? Did he wait too long to bring on substitutions? Or was it all wrong from the start instead. Do the USA have any shot at grabbing the top spot? Or is this all about Canada from here on out? Sean and Erik also go around CONCACAF and discuss Costa Rica's hard-fought draw with Mexico at the Azteca. Panama taking it to Jamaica and VAR finally making its presence felt in these qualifiers. Also, can't forget to mention a HUGE win for La Selecta as El Salvador firmly end Honduras hopes and now give themselves a chance with 9 points to possibly make a leap up the standings. All of this and of course thoughts on what lies ahead for crucial games on Wednesday night as CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying comes down to the wire.

Soccer 2 the MAX returns to discuss the first of three games in this window of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers which begins with the United States Men's National Team getting a win by the slimmest of margins over El Salvador in Columbus, Ohio. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins ponder if the team perhaps plays more freely without Christian Pulisic starting. What about Jesus Ferriera starting instead of Ricardo Pepi? Has Antonee Robinson solidified his spot as the most vital defender? What matters more? Consistency in victory? Or not doing more against the quality of opposition? They also go around CONCACAF and look at what happened in the other games, including the huge win for Costa Rica over Panama and what this means for their game against Mexico. Is the USMNT vs Canada game the biggest match left? Will Panama deliver the final blow to Jamaica's World Cup chances?

The NWSL Expansion Draft and the 2022 NWSL College Draft delivered some big trades and major surprises, along with controversy as well. I guess you could say there was a little bit of everything. Rachael Kriger joins Sean and Erik to discuss the big happenings, the trades, some of the players drafted, and also the controversy that ensued afterward involving the Portland Thorns as well. Not to mention, the news of NWSL now taking on United States Women's National Team salaries and the NWSL schedule framework too. Major League Soccer also ushered in a new team in Charlotte FC and they had an Expansion Draft as well, although trades made it to where they actually wound up only picking three players ultimately. But on the bright side, a largely MLS-based squad helped the United States Men's National Team get to 17 wins on the year with a 1-0 over Bosnia Herzegovina. Although the game wasn't much to talk about, Jordan Morris certainly had some nice moments at least. Also, USMNT players could be on the move in the January Transfer Window with Barcelona looking to move Serginio Dest, but actually want Christian Pulisic? Would it be a good fit for him in Barcelona? What about Ricardo Pepi at Atletico Madrid? And could Weston McKennie join Tottenham too?

Portland ultimately was not able to take advantage of their home-field advantage and lost in penalties to a feisty New York City FC side with captain Sean Johnson making two huge saves and led by MLS 2021 Golden Boot winner Valentin Taty Castellanos on the scoring end, the boys from the Bronx claim Major League Soccer's ultimate prize. NYCFC MLS Cup Champions is how the year ends, but of course what's next for MLS and NYCFC? Sean and Erik discuss the game, the standout performances, and if there are any leads for a new stadium for NYCFC. They also go through the highlights of Don Garber's "State of MLS" address which includes the upcoming MLS TV rights deal, MLS Next PRO, Las Vegas being team # 30, Don's thoughts on the Biennial World Cup idea, and more. Plus the NWSL keeps making big moves and now Alex Morgan literally joins the San Diego Wave, Jesse Marsch is out at RB Leipzig, Chris Armas is in as Manchester United assistant, and the final USMNT squad of 2021 prepares for a friendly against Bosnia & Herzegovina this week. Of course, our Manchester United Moment is an interesting one as Ralf Rangnick's first week is eventful with two wins and a draw that doesn't really matter. Are there any positives to take from what's happened so far? Should there be a lot of concern with Brentford and Brighton coming up? And is it Bruno or Ronaldo? Who's the actual problem in the team?

On the other side of the pond, Manchester United has their man for the interim job as Ralf Rangnick joins the Red Devils to finish the season. Is the father of the gegenpress the right man to see things out? Should Ronaldo be concerned due to this drastic change in style? And will this actually galvanize the players to be more cohesive and actually play like a team? Plus, thoughts on the most recent game against Arsenal and Michael Carrick saying goodbye to the club.Despite losing their star man Taty Castellanos to a late second yellow card, NYCFC soldiered on and put their foot down in penalties to make their first-ever Eastern Conference finals appearance and oust the record-breaking supporters shield winners New England Revolution in the process. Now the MLS Cup Semifinals are set with Portland and Real Salt Lake set to square off on one side and the Philadelphia Union matchup against NYCFC on the other. Plus, the Intercontinental and European playoffs for crucial spots in the 2022 World Cup have been drawn. How are excited are CONCACAF at what's transpired? And should Portugal and Italy feel wronged? Or are their results more to blame? Some good and very bad for the NWSL since the end of the season with a terrible revelation that now-former Chicago Red Stars coach Rory Dames emotionally and verbally abused players. Will this finally lead to changes in the way teams pick their head coaches? There were at least some big trades already and the United States Women's National Team won and drew in their series against Australia too.

It has finally happened, Manchester United ripped off the band-aid and deliver the message, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Out! After their 4-1 loss to Watford. However, this goes beyond just one result, it has been a long time coming. Sean and Erik go through the game, the talk from the players, Ole himself, and this idea of two interim managers and who in the world would want to come to take the job from Michael Carrick, and of course who winds up the next full manager for the club. The Washington Spirit fulfilled their tagline as the "Team of Destiny" as Trinity Rodman willed the team to victory with two important setups that turned into the two goals that gave The Spirit a 2-1 win over the Chicago Red Stars. The Spirit now become the 5th team to win the NWSL Championship and now attention turns to the off-season where an expansion draft looms as well. All of this, plus NBC retaining the rights to the English Premier League for another six years after they paid 2.7 Billion to stave off approaches from CBS, ESPN, and even Warner Media. FIFA has made a big change to the Intercontinental Playoffs and more.

A super eventful 8th round of CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers give us a new leader at the top of the table to finish out 2021 as Canada bests Mexico 2-1 on a frigid night in Edmonton to get 16 points. The game had drama from the 1st minute until the 95th minute and so much happening in-between too. Elsewhere, the United States Men's National team only manage a draw at The Office in Kingston Jamaica as once again some Michail Antonio magic helps the Reggae Boyz pick up another point, as the USA suffers yet another lackluster showing away from home. Considering the US have more away games left than home games, is there a way to solve this problem? Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins go through the talking points and performances from both of the big games on the night. Plus, a customary trip around CONCACAF sees things get even tighter at the top and another squad creates a small window of distance from the other squads at the bottom. There's plenty to talk about as it is past the halfway point in CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying.

On a rainy, at times even chilly night in Cincinnati, the United States Men's National Team faced their eternal rival in Mexico and came out the clear winners. Goals from substitute Christian Pulisic and Weston McKinnie are what appear on the stat sheet, but there's a lot to take from this game in the way the team played, in who stood out, and perhaps who has really cemented their spots in the squad. But what about Mexico? Is Tata Martino to blame for the loss? Or is it more about the players? And should there be some worry considering who they play in their next game? There's also the traditional trip around CONCACAF for Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins as they discuss the 1-0 victory for Canada over a younger Costa Rica. Panama going to San Pedro Sula and stealing the game away from Honduras. Plus, Alex Roldan rescues a point at home against Jamaica too.

There is a lot to get to in this episode that is, unfortunately, a day later than expected, but nonetheless, the playoffs are happening for the NWSL and MLS has reached Decision Day where now everything is set for their playoffs too. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins go through the ups and downs of some of the teams including Erik's own Orlando City making it in and D.C. United narrowly missing out. Although Sean's FC Dallas has long been eliminated, he still finds some interesting things to discuss, along with the two big games in NWSL as well. Of course, the US Men's National Team Squad has been named for the two games coming up against Mexico and Jamaica. Are there are any surprises? Any big misses? And any players that are question marks? Plus, the US Men's U-20 Squad gets a new coach and starts playing pretty soon in the Revelations Cup, FOX owns major National team soccer almost with their big grab of everything UEFA, the Manchester United Moment, and more!Timestamps: (1:20) MLS Decision Day 2021(23:15) NWSL Playoffs 2021(28:35) USMNT WCQ November Squad(48:40) US Men's U-20 New Coach and Squad for Revelations Cup(54:00) FOX Gets Rights to Everything UEFA from 2022 to EURO 2028(1:03:30) Manchester United Moment: Two Games, Same Ole United

New England Revolution break the single-season points record after officially winning Supporter's Shield last week. Will it actually mean anything? History kinda shows it may not. Plus the playoff field narrows with one week left. Juventus and Napoli are perhaps involved in another scandal. This time it is overestimating transfer fees for players to cook the books. The Manchester United Moment sees Ole get a small form of redemption thanks to a strike partnership that is the combined age of 70 and an awful Tottenham side too. Carli Lloyd officially played her last game for the United States Women's National Team, Ronald Koeman's sacking possibly making way for an old Barcelona legend, and more.

Ricardo Pepi looks to possibly have a move to VFL Wolfsburg possibly done soon, but with interest from Ajax, Genoa, and other clubs there's plenty of opportunities for him to go learn and ply his trade. However, with the 2022 World Cup looming playing time is also of the utmost importance. So Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss who could be the best fit for the USA's star striker, if making a move soon is the best decision, or if perhaps staying in MLS for another year may be a better option. They get into the latest with what's been happening in the NWSL, Europe and South America looking at blocking the proposed Biennial World Cup, and if Arsene Wenger's one-month international break is a good idea or not. Plus, Supporters Club, the Manchester United Moment, Hernan Dario Gomez becoming the new coach of Honduras, and more!

After falling behind super early doors 1-0 to Costa Rica, the United States Men's National Team woke up and went after it to get a goal back from an unlikely source in Sergino Dest, and then were able to force a second goal and get the big win to secure six points in this window of three games and sit firmly in second place in the Octagonal. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss the game, some of the players that stood out, thoughts on the changes to the squad, and after six games is there a Best XI for the USA? Plus, an overall look at the team as the game against Mexico looms on November 12. Of course, they also go around CONCACAF and discuss the nervy yet comfortable moments for Mexico in San Salvador against La Selecta El Salvador. Canada zooming past Panama for a blowout win, and Jamaica getting their first win in qualifying and sending Honduras straight to the bottom.

The 13-match unbeaten run has ended for the United States Men's National Team as they fall to Panama 1-0 in World Cup Qualifying. Seven changes were made by coach Gregg Berhalter to the starting 11 from the previous match, was that the biggest factor in the loss? How much of the lack of energy and grit applies to the players? And what about the substitutions during the game as well? Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins get into all that, plus praise for Panama, Matt Turner finally looking a little vulnerable, and what is it with these half-time subs as well? The guys also go around the rest of CONCACAF and talk about Costa Rica's big come from behind win against El Salvador. Jamaica and Canada battling to a 0-0 draw, and also Mexico's comfortable win against a 10-man Honduras side too.

Although it took a while for the United States National Team to kick it into gear, once they did, it turned into a commanding performance that wound up being a 2-0 victory that could have been more. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss the standout performances, if the USMNT have solidified two of their three starters up-front, was Walker Zimmerman secretly the Center Back the team needed? And of course, it is all aboard the Ricardo Pepi train as he scores two more goals in his home state. Of course, there's also talk about some controversial decisions involving the referee and why no VAR in CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying is an even bigger mystery as well. Plus, we go around CONCACAF talking about the other games that happened on the night including a deeper dive into Canada vs. Mexico and El Salvador's big result against Panama too.

Unfortunately, the major story this week in American soccer is one that involves allegations of verbal and emotional abuse and sexual coercion that have led to the firing of not only former North Carolina head coach Paul Riley, but also former Washington Spirit head coach Richie Burke. This has now gone a step further with Lisa Baird now becoming the former commissioner of the league as well. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss the delicate topic, why the league got it wrong on so many levels, and what they are starting to do to ensure it doesn't happen again. The United States Men's National Team also had their World Cup Qualifying squad announced for the next round of games against Jamaica, Panama, and Costa Rica. The guys go over the roster, some surprises, and if there are any major snubs too.Plus, Supporters Club, the Manchester United minute, and what's a bigger disappointment Bayern Munich or Real Madrid from this week?

Is it possible that Cristiano Ronaldo could be the next Manchester United manager when his playing career finally ends? Or is this just speculation of the highest order since once again Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is under fire for recent results?Major changes are happening all over the landscape when it comes to CONCACAF competitions as the CONCACAF Champions League changes again and now the League Cup expands to include every single MLS and Liga MX team. Plus, there's also a 2nd division Women's League in the works too. All this plus Luchi Gonzalez fired at FC Dallas in our headlines, Supporters Club, and our biggest winners and losers as well.

Discussing the re-debut of Cristiano Ronaldo for Manchester United in both Premier League action and UEFA Champions League action. How one game went so right and one went right for about 30 minutes and then horribly wrong. Also, the United States Soccer Federation has offered identical collective bargaining agreements to both the United States Men and Women's National Teams. Going the route of revenue sharing for actual pay and aiming to get the men and women to split FIFA prize money. Is this really a way to get equal pay? Is it actually viable at the moment? Are the USSF trying to find the cheapest way out? Plus, CONMEBOL now changes their mind about the biennial World Cup, while FIFPRO also weighs in on the situation too. All of this while other confederations seem to actually be ok with the idea. Plus, this also gives Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins a chance to discuss the Women's side of the equation and how this could actually benefit them. Of course, we end things with a look at our teams with the Supporters Club segment.

A tale of two halves it certainly was for the United States Men's National Team in a huge win to bring them level with the other major powers in CONCACAF during this cycle. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss the game with their headlines, some players that stood out, the coaching decisions, and also things to be careful of going forward into the next round of games. All of the other CONCACAF teams also played on this night as well. So the duo takes a gander around the confederation as to how the other teams stack up and the standings as they are heading into October.

World Cup qualifying showcased many things about the beautiful game on and off the pitch this past week. Especially in the facet of having global things affect the games themselves. Of course, Brazil vs. Argentina debacle is front of mind as those in charge of Brazil's medical quadrant got involved and made a fiasco of a huge game that had already started. Plus Erik Watkins has another story that is even bigger than that one. Sean Garmer has a bone to pick with FIFA and why they did not honor the already in place UEFA stadium ban which could have prevented the racial abuse incidents that the England players suffered in their game against Hungary.FIFA has also drawn the ire of UEFA and many others in a grander way as right now Arsene Wenger is leading the charge for a major change to the FIFA World Cup structure in possibly having it biennially instead of every four years. The guys have a great discussion and try to answer the question of Why FIFA wants a World Cup every two years and why this isn't such a good idea.Also, the NWSL made a huge decision in not only having their championship game in Portland again, but also making the game a 9 am Pacific time start. The duo discusses why this is a bad move and what it says about the league decision-makers as a whole.

The second game of three sees the United States Men's National Team play in Nashville Tennessee against Canada. In a game where the USMNT will really be looking for a result. Did Christian Pulisic playing for the USA make a big difference? How vital was Alphonso Davies for Canada? Who are some players to point out? Some players that perhaps missed the mark? Sean Garmer, Erik Watkins, and Rachael Kriger have much to discuss as once again USMNT only manages a point.Should this be seen as a disappointment? Should it be a relief? Is Gregg Berhalter to blame at all in this? Plus, a look around to the other CONCACAF qualifiers that happened on the night as well.

World Cup Qualifying has begun in the CONCACAF region and the United States Men's National Team traveled down to the El Cuzcatlan to face El Salvador in the first game. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss the highs and lows of the game, who performed well, what are some strengths and weaknesses, thoughts on the result, and also some of the substitutions. Plus a look ahead to how much the Canada game now matters and who are some players that should start. The duo also goes around the rest of CONCACAF and see how the competition stacks up in the Octagonal.

The full squad is here for a big show heading into a very interesting International break. But first, there's a discussion on the madness that was Transfer Deadline day. Although the major one many were hoping for did not come to fruition as Kylian Mbappe stays at PSG. However, there are still several surprises to get into, including Cristiano Ronaldo coming back to Manchester United, Antoine Griezmann heading back to Atletico Madrid, and more. There are also some interesting tidbits on the newly minted CONCACAF W Championship and CONCACAF W Gold Cup as well. Plus of course, What We Watched, The Supporters Club, Headlines, and more.We will be back twice before the next regular show. Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins will have a review and reactions to the first USMNT World Cup Qualifying game against El Salvador on early Friday morning. Plus, the full crew again including Rachael McKriger on Sunday night for the second USMNT WCQ game against Canada too.Rachael's article for The Equalizer: https://equalizersoccer.com/2021/08/26/explaining-the-new-concacaf-tournaments-qualification-format-for-world-cup-olympics/

When the concept came about to do a show centered around the UEFA Champions League Draw who knew a bunch of other news would come out the same day. So basically there's the second episode in one week for everyone. First up, Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins discuss the 2021 UEFA Champions League Draw. So many storylines to choose from with Manchester City versus PSG, Liverpool versus AC Milan, Real Madrid versus Inter Milan, Manchester United versus Villarreal. But beyond just matchups, who could surprise? Is there a team to look forward to? And of course what headlines will be pulled from this as well. Also, the United States Men's National Team has named their 26 player squad. Are there any glaring omissions? How do we feel about the squad in general? Sean also has some thoughts on Ricardo Pepi deciding to pick the USA over Mexico. Plus, a little more on the now, fully European Covid-19 Red List with Serie A and LaLiga joining the English Premier League in not allowing players to travel for National Team duty. Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe are talking up all of the retail space for what's left in the transfer window after Harry Kane decided to stay at Tottenham. Are we going to see both of the players in new team kits before the close of the window on September 1? How does Cristiano potentially fit into a Manchester City side? Interesting thoughts ahead. Also, Erik's thoughts on the MLS All-Star game on What We Watched, and Predictions for who gets out of each UEFA Champions League group at the end of the show as well.

Several non Soccer playing-related stories dominate the discussion on this week's Soccer 2 the MAX, as the two-man crew of Sean Garmer and Erik Watkins tackle quite a few big topics. The big drama in Nice with their game against Marseille and why the wrong decision was made by Ligue 1 officials. Why more should be done to protect players and why manager Jorge Sampaoli deserves some blame too. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Jurgen Klopp both are not big fans of the new English Premier League rules about letting "the game flow" leading to some questionable decisions in games. Is the league better for these changes following more of the precedent set by EURO 2020, or are the managers right in this instance? Along with that, the Premier League announced they've come to a decision to not allow its players to travel to countries that are on the UK government's red list which highly affects countries in South America, Asia, and Africa who won't have some of their best players for three World Cup Qualifying games. Who's right? FIFA or the ECA? Finally, some actual on-the-pitch stuff with the MLS All-Star game happening. Who wins? And what about all the players that aren't going to be there for both sides? Does this severely lessen the viability of this encounter? Should MLS versus Liga MX be the way forward for this event? Plus, why are the United States not good at Beach Soccer What We Watched This Week and the Supporters Club too.

Soccer 2 the MAX is back! And all three of your hosts are here, as Sean Garmer once again rejoins Erik Watkins and Rachael Kriger in talking about the beautiful game they love so much. This time there's a much different format to what's been in the past on the show. Each episode features standard segments like Headlines, What We Watched, and the Supporters Club. However, each host also brings their own topic as well which is sure to drive some banter and conversation. Sean wonders if the possible UEFA salary cap is actually going to work or if the big clubs will just overpay to get whoever they want. Should there be a hard cap instead? Rachael discusses why the National Women's Soccer League needs a team in Canada. While Erik is still happy about Brentford's big win. Plus, thoughts on a possible move for Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid, the mess with FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi, if Harry Kane goes to Manchester City, thoughts on fans being back in the stands and more. Timestamps:(2:00): Our Headlines: NWSL Needs VAR, Kylian Mbappe going to Real Madrid? Could Cristiano Ronaldo come to PSG? And discussing fans being back as the European league seasons begin. (23:50): What We Watched This Week: Manchester United Vs. Leeds United, Seattle Sounders vs. Portland Timbers, and some Leagues Cup action. (39:00): NWSL Need a team in Canada(47:45): UEFA Proposing a Salary Cap with a Luxury Tax(56:30) Brentford's Premier League Debut Win(1:00:00) The Supporters Club: How We Feel About the Teams we Support this week

Soccer 2 the MAX makes its long-awaited return! Erik and Rachael wrap up the MLS Cup that was (featuring a mini-rant about Rachael's Sounders and what's to come for 2021) and the two USMNT friendlies to wrap up the year. The pair also discusses who got snubbed for the US Male Player of the Year award, and Rachael wraps up with a special shoutout to Megan Rapinoe for her statement after inclusion in the FIFPro Women's World11.

Welcome to another edition of Soccer 2 the Max! Rachael and Erik are back, and we have a women's soccer themed show for you. The NWSL Challenge Cup is kicking off on June 27, this very month! It's the first professional league coming back to action in the United States. What does this mean for the league? Also, Erik and Rachael break down the competition, the teams and who they're most excited to see on a different team.

Welcome to another edition of Soccer 2 the Max! Rachael and Erik are back, and we have a women's soccer themed show for you. The NWSL Challenge Cup is kicking off on June 27, this very month! It's the first professional league coming back to action in the United States. What does this mean for the league? Also, Erik and Rachael break down the competition, the teams and who they're most excited to see on a different team.

We're back for another episode of Soccer 2 The Max! Erik and Rachael team up to chat about the Americans featuring in the Bundesliga, which returned to action this weekend. It was a bit of a "meh" weekend for most players, including the likes of John Brooks, Timmy Chandler and some injury-riddled players. Also, the duo chat about a potential plan to bring the NWSL and MLS back to action. Both disagree with shuffling teams to specific locations for a month, or two months.

We're back for another episode of Soccer 2 The Max! Erik and Rachael team up to chat about the Americans featuring in the Bundesliga, which returned to action this weekend. It was a bit of a "meh" weekend for most players, including the likes of John Brooks, Timmy Chandler and some injury-riddled players. Also, the duo chat about a potential plan to bring the NWSL and MLS back to action. Both disagree with shuffling teams to specific locations for a month, or two months.

We're baaaaack! Erik Watkins and Rachael Kriger are back at Soccer 2 The Max, chatting about, well, soccer! Even though we're in quarantine — Erik's in Florida, Rachael is up north in Pennsylvania — we've got a lot to talk about. First, the duo dives into the newest and latest U.S. women's national team legal craziness. Then, Erik and Rachael talk about the USL, MLS and NWSL opening up individual and team training. What does it look like for clubs who can't yet hit the practice field due to being in hot-bed areas? Finally, the show ends with a chat about the Bundesliga aiming to start back up by the end of May, and if it's really a good idea with COVID-19. Welcome back to Soccer 2 The Max!

We're baaaaack! Erik Watkins and Rachael Kriger are back at Soccer 2 The Max, chatting about, well, soccer! Even though we're in quarantine — Erik's in Florida, Rachael is up north in Pennsylvania — we've got a lot to talk about. First, the duo dives into the newest and latest U.S. women's national team legal craziness. Then, Erik and Rachael talk about the USL, MLS and NWSL opening up individual and team training. What does it look like for clubs who can't yet hit the practice field due to being in hot-bed areas? Finally, the show ends with a chat about the Bundesliga aiming to start back up by the end of May, and if it's really a good idea with COVID-19. Welcome back to Soccer 2 The Max!

On this episode, Rachael and Erik break down the big news of Jill Ellis steppind down as head coach of the US Women's National Team, and talk about everything from the timing to what's next for the team and US Soccer in general. Who's up next? How will the transition be? Will the first name be monosyllabic?Also, the duo cover all the different updates with the USWNT lawsuit, including the now infamous letter from US Soccer President Carlos Codeiro and how the men's team is stepping in as backup.The pair also give their players of interest for the MLS All-Star game, as well as the general approach for the event, along with their thoughts on the general approach to the festivities in Orlando as a whole.Finally, NWSL attendance talk, some news and notes, and a little Don rant to end the show as a "celebratory" moment for Commissioner Garber's 20th anniversary as head of MLS.

On this episode, Rachael and Erik break down the big news of Jill Ellis steppind down as head coach of the US Women's National Team, and talk about everything from the timing to what's next for the team and US Soccer in general. Who's up next? How will the transition be? Will the first name be monosyllabic?Also, the duo cover all the different updates with the USWNT lawsuit, including the now infamous letter from US Soccer President Carlos Codeiro and how the men's team is stepping in as backup.The pair also give their players of interest for the MLS All-Star game, as well as the general approach for the event, along with their thoughts on the general approach to the festivities in Orlando as a whole.Finally, NWSL attendance talk, some news and notes, and a little Don rant to end the show as a "celebratory" moment for Commissioner Garber's 20th anniversary as head of MLS.

On this episode, Rachael and Erik celebrate and review the US Women's National Team for their World Cup victory in France, and discuss what this means for the women's game now and going forward. The pair also talk about the NWSL, what their new sponsorship and TV deals could mean for this season, and where the league can go from here; as well as how things will change with the return of the international players. On the men's side, the duo talk about what went right and wrong for the US in the Gold Cup, what to expect in tournaments to come from the US and Mexico, and now CONCACAF needs to step up with the infamous Mexico chant. Finally, one good Don rant to wrap up the show, as Erik gives a little advice to the MLS commissioner about how expansion should be handled.

On this episode, Rachael and Erik celebrate and review the US Women's National Team for their World Cup victory in France, and discuss what this means for the women's game now and going forward. The pair also talk about the NWSL, what their new sponsorship and TV deals could mean for this season, and where the league can go from here; as well as how things will change with the return of the international players. On the men's side, the duo talk about what went right and wrong for the US in the Gold Cup, what to expect in tournaments to come from the US and Mexico, and now CONCACAF needs to step up with the infamous Mexico chant. Finally, one good Don rant to wrap up the show, as Erik gives a little advice to the MLS commissioner about how expansion should be handled.

In this episode, Rachael and Erik talk about how good the USMNT's 4-0 win over Guyana to open up the Gold Cup really was, and the contributions of a former Mailman!Later, Erik puts some perspective on a particular blowout performance by the USWNT at the FIFA Women's World Cup, and Rachael helps him realize he may be on the path to being a Vegas sharp after all as the duo look ahead to the big match against Sweden. For that, Erik sits back and gives Rachael the floor for a rant on our good friend VAR.Finally, it's bracket talk as the pair discuss the chaos from Groups C and D, and how the race for third place will shape up not only who advances, but also who the favorites will be as the knockout stage draws near.

In this episode, Rachael and Erik talk about how good the USMNT's 4-0 win over Guyana to open up the Gold Cup really was, and the contributions of a former Mailman!Later, Erik puts some perspective on a particular blowout performance by the USWNT at the FIFA Women's World Cup, and Rachael helps him realize he may be on the path to being a Vegas sharp after all as the duo look ahead to the big match against Sweden. For that, Erik sits back and gives Rachael the floor for a rant on our good friend VAR.Finally, it's bracket talk as the pair discuss the chaos from Groups C and D, and how the race for third place will shape up not only who advances, but also who the favorites will be as the knockout stage draws near.

On this episode, Rachael and Erik review the first games of Groups D and E, and discuss what this will mean for each group going forward compared to expectations. Yes, they also preview Group F with the USA, and why it may not be as big of a cakewalk through the group stage as first thought.Finally, the duo recap the first action from Groups A, B, and C, talking about everything from what VAR got right to the teams that could make even more noise as the tournament goes on.

On this episode, Rachael and Erik review the first games of Groups D and E, and discuss what this will mean for each group going forward compared to expectations. Yes, they also preview Group F with the USA, and why it may not be as big of a cakewalk through the group stage as first thought.Finally, the duo recap the first action from Groups A, B, and C, talking about everything from what VAR got right to the teams that could make even more noise as the tournament goes on.

On our first preview episode counting down to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, Rachael and Erik talk about the favorites and dark horses from each of Groups A, B, & C, and discuss the upsets that could happen to prevent some favorites from winning it all. Also, they do a deep dive into Ada Hegerberg's protest and what the future could hold for Brazil if things don't go their way.

On our first preview episode counting down to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, Rachael and Erik talk about the favorites and dark horses from each of Groups A, B, & C, and discuss the upsets that could happen to prevent some favorites from winning it all. Also, they do a deep dive into Ada Hegerberg's protest and what the future could hold for Brazil if things don't go their way.