Podcast appearances and mentions of Ike Opara

Benny Feilhaber and Ike Opara join us to reminisce about the good ol' days for Sporting KC and talk about the second year of their regime leading SKC II in MLS Next Pro. And - as always - a lot of other nonsense. Is Sal Zizzo joining the coaching staff? They also tease the potential return of the BSI Podcast. We talked about exciting players who could make the jump to MLS, challenges & disagreements in their new coaching careers, and who does all the yelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Retro Week! To get ready for Sunday's Retro Night match between Sporting Kansas City (read: The Kansas City Wizards) and the Portland Timbers, hosts Nate Bukaty and Aly Trost Martin are joined by Conall McCourt to talk through some audio from Tuesday's media availability after training with manager Peter Vermes, center back Andreu Fontas and captain Johnny Russell. Then, SKCII head coach Ike Opara joins Nate and Aly to talk hair, his new role as coach, all things retro & more as Ike gets real about his personal head injury journey. To close out the show, Nate and Aly welcome back Conall to play more practice sound & discuss some of their favorite songs from the 90s.

Derek talks with former Sporting KC star and current SKCII assistant coach Ike Opara.

You heard that right! Reunited and it feels so good! Ahead of opening weekend for MLS Next Pro, The Call Up welcomes in former SKC teammates (and podcast hosts!), Benny Feilhaber and Ike Opara, as they prepare for their first season at the helm of SKC II. The duo discuss their coaching styles and influences, as well as what success looks like in year one. Plus, Benny's thoughts on the upcoming WCQ window and why this USMNT has what it takes to get the job done. A podcast reunion you don't want to miss!

Ike and Benny are back together again but this time coach Sporting KC II - Ike discusses why he decided to coach and what he expects from coaching with friend Benny Feilhaber. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode we talk about the MLS transfers, the All-Star selections, Ike Opara's contract and more!

The guys get together to discuss lots of MNUFC news [8:30], including some quotes Adrian Heath gave to Jerry Zgoda, the Juan Agudelo signing, the shitty Ike Opara news, and briefly discuss the preseason schedule. After the break, it's MLS news time [42:22]. They discuss the US Open Cup plan and schedules (Tinfoil Dan pops up to make an appearance), the Wilfs wanting to purchase Orlando City SC and the plan for Canadian teams in mostly Florida. Finally, MJ surprises Zeller with a Very Special Better Know A Loon [1:03:00] and we wrap up with some MPLS City news [1:07:02]. Purchase the Hop Clouds Citra Town Wanderers Jersey, https://www.podiumwear.com/team-storefront/hop-clouds-citra-town-wanders-custom-shirt-reorder/ New Beer Tiers Coming Soon! Sign up today to get delicious beer in 2021! [Time Stamps]

He's one of those guys you love if he's on your team, but you hate him if he's not. Peter Vermes once said he had the biggest mouth in the league so we were very excited to have him join the show. The one and only Benny Feilhaber joined Cody, Thad, and Robert this week! We cover a range of topics from Tom Brady vs Patrick Mahomes as Super Bowl LV approaches, the angriest he's ever seen Peter Vermes, all the way to more serious topics like the Major League Soccer CBA debate & potential lockout. If you have somehow been missing out, make sure you subscribe to Benny's pod with Sal Zizzo & Ike Opara, BSI The Podcast. Follow Cody @ThatCodyTho, Thad @TheBackpost, & Robert @SpKCLife. And of course Benny @b_feilhaber22. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The regular crew are joined by Dr Ian Maher, who won the Dark Clouds charity auction for a spot on the pod. So the pod looks at the Minnesota United semifinal loss to Seattle Sounders. The they discuss the uncertainty around Kevin Molino, Ozzie Alonso, and Ike Opara.

Waiting for MNUFC matches fucking sucks! So we discuss what we would do with a miraculously recovered Ike Opara! [13:58] And then some Reynoso discussions, first we discuss if he should be playing Top 5 European football and then and more importantly we compare him to Mark Messier and Ricky Rubio [23:46]. After the break Dan apologizes to Nashville SC fans [55:13], we discuss why MNUFC is so disrespected by the bookies [56:21] and then jump into our SporKS discussion [56:21].  Finally we discuss a Coach Fight [1:23:15] and then some world soccer [1:27:00] including Maradona, we each get 60 seconds to complain about our EPL teams, some national team discussion and admonishing Klopp!

This is not your distraction. It’s not your escape from real life. For some, this is everyday life. These words adorned the shirts worn on July 8 by nearly 200 black Major League Soccer players, coaches, and staff who gathered for a showing of unity during a summer of historic racial tension in the United States. In the debut episode of The Movement Podcast, host and former MLS player Calen Carr examines how the Black soccer community in MLS embraced the Black Lives Matter movement and formed the Black Players for Change organization. Founded by a collection of prominent players with their own sobering stories of life as Black men in America, the BPC orchestrated a series of demonstrations in July as well as a boycott of nearly all MLS games on one historic night in August, all to raise awareness of racial injustice and police brutality. Carr offers a candid look at life for these Black players across the North American soccer spectrum via months of interviews with MLS players Warren Creaville, Raymon Gaddis, Jeremy Ebobisse and Ike Opara, as well as passionate supporters eager to join the fight for justice. From the Minneapolis corner where George Floyd died, to a protest in Atlanta following the death of Ahmaud Arbery, to the night when MLS play suddenly stopped after the police shooting of Jacob Blake, players and fans share their experiences from an unprecedented and transformative moment for soccer and social change. 0:00 - Formation of the Black Players for Change organization 8:45 - Warren Creavalle recounts one agonizing night in Houston 14:20 - Ike Opara on life in Minnesota after George Floyd’s death 18:05 - Jeremy Ebobisee on systemic racism and the relationship between the black community and the police 25:42 - Atlanta United Supporters refocus their resources on social justice 35:12 - Ray Gaddis reflects on the death of Breonna Taylor and his personal story of protests and pandemic 45:33 – Reggie Cannon and Ryan Hollingshead discuss a fateful night in Frisco and a historic night when sports stopped across the country

We've got a new podcast for you this week, with some upgraded audio, in which we cover Sporting Kansas City's loss to the Houston Dynamo, have a debate about Ilie and Busio that will make you squirm, give an explanation about Alan Pulido, and preview this weekend's match against Minnesota United FC. The entire SKC defense has been beaten several times this year by one pass. What is different this year and why do there seem to be so many holes? Thad Bell, attack him on Twitter @TheBackpost, says he's starting Gianluca Busio over the beloved Ilie Sanchez. How could this be? Help us prove him wrong, please. Alan Pulido and his wife jetted off to Chicago and, to the surprise of nobody, the internet panicked. But we've got a reasonable explanation for everything to calm you down a bit. A touchy subject for many fans is Ike Opara. It's common to joke about the egregious mistake in letting him go among Sporting faithful. But Ike is once again hurt and not on the field. Also... a puppy made it ALMOST the entire podcast without messing things up. But she just had to ruin the sign off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Justyn and Sam are once again joined by Nate from the Citizens Supporters Group to get you up-to-date on news regarding Minnesota United and preview Group D of the MLS is Back Tournament. Topics for PART ONE include: Ike Opara injury news (4:50) Minnesota United's renewed bid for Emanuel Reynoso (10:35) Romario Ibarra is officially no longer a Loon (12:08) Turmoil within MNUFC's academy (13:39) Thoughts going into the MLS is Back Tournament (20:06) Sporting Kansas City (32:07) Real Salt Lake (38:06) Colorado Rapids (41:22) If you enjoy the show, please support us by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We also appreciate 5-star iTunes reviews. Every little bit helps the show grow! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/podloons/message

On today's episode, Jeremy briefly summarizes the latest with Minnesota United's youth academy, the return of #ReynosoWatch, and Ike Opara sitting out the MLS is Back Tournament. SPAM FC Scholarship Foundation President Van Hong and Treasurer Cory Halloren join to discuss both the foundation itself and the upcoming start of a condensed MASL season. WPASL President Kaden Bergman talks about starting their season and the upward trajectory the league has taken in recent years.

Benny Feilhaber is a very patient man. The former USMNT midfielder answered all Daryl's questions about his international career, his first call-up, that Gold Cup final goal, Bob Bradley's tactical instructions, the lack of consideration from Jurgen Klinsmann, and the final few minutes of 2018 World Cup qualification. Benny also talks about BSI: The Podcast, the show he runs with Sal Zizzo and Ike Opara. We 100% recommend that you listen, because there is no other soccer podcast where players talk as openly as they do on BSI.SPONSORS!Register for The Big Climb at LLS.org/bigclimbNeed life insurance? Go to PolicyGenius.comGet 25% off at SundayScaries.com with code SOCCERGet 25% off your first Hydrant order via DrinkHydrant.com/soccer 

Max & Vince are back with another MVP podcast this week. The guys start with an update on the situation around MLS in regards to COVID-19. Teams and players are still self-isolating and staying safe at home. Max & Vince talk about what might happen if the season restarts in June/July. The guys are also sharing LAFC Connect with everyone. Head to LAFC.com to sync your calendar with all the content the Club is putting out each day. That includes live events, match replays, podcasts, and more. Then it's time for our special guest. Former LAFC midfielder Benny Feilhaber joins the guys from his home in KC. Benny tells us about life after MLS. We ask about BSI: The Podcast with Benny, Sal Zizzo, and Ike Opara (if you haven't yet, check it out and subscribe!). And Benny tells us a few stories from his time with LAFC including what makes Carlos Vela the best Designated Player in MLS history.

Jill & Susannah have a girls night with reigning MLS Defender of the Year Ike Opara. He shares the time Peter Vermes scolded the Cauldron during a playoff game and his secret to the fountain of youth, . The ladies turn the table on "Ike's Interrogation Room"! Who is his favorite coach? His most overrated MLS player? Who does he like better, Benny Feilahber or Sal Zizzo?! Does he plead the fifth? It's all here! Oh, and Jill & Sus share what exciting rabbit holes they've gone down while they STAY HOME.

11 Year MLS Cup Champion Quincy Amarikwa’s (@QuincyAmarikwa) presents - The Perfect Soccer Podcast, Where your host Paul Guarino goes 1 on 1 to get to know your favorite professional soccer players, on and off the pitch. In today’s episode: Paul interviewed Minnesota United defender Ike Opara. Ike discusses his time at Wake Forest winning the NCAA Championship, winning an MLS Cup, and how he has gotten better and better throughout the years. 0:00 - 1:23 Intro 1:24 - 3:08 Thoughts on when the MLS is going to come back 3:09 - 3:45 How Ike got into soccer 3:46 - 5:12 High school or club soccer or both? 5:13 - 6:38 Playing multiple sports 6:39 - 9:05 Recruiting process out of high school 9:06 - 12:14 Losing scholarships and gaining new ones 12:15 - 14:53 Winning the NCAA National Championship with Wake Forest as freshman 14:54 - 15:39 Going from hunted to hunter 15:40 - 17:41 Leaving college early to enter the MLS draft 17:42 - 19:07 Going through the MLS draft process 19:08 - 20:02 Getting drafted 3rd overall to the San Jose Earthquakes 20:03 - 22:33 1st MLS game experience 22:34 - 24:38 Getting traded in the MLS for the 1st time 24:39 - 25:00 Perfect Soccer ad 25:01 - 26:38 Winning the MLS Cup with Sporting KC 26:39 - 28:40 Which was sweeter to win the MLS Cup or NCAA Championship? 28:41 - 30:35 Being named Defense Player of Year and Best XI twice 30:36 - 31:55 Better with age 31:56 - 32:35 Ike’s trophy room 32:36 - 34:45 Getting traded fora 2nd time 34:46 - 36:01 Playing for USMNT 36:02 - 41:05 Quincy’s 5 questions 41:06 - 47:52 Off the pitch questions 47:53 - 48:58 Outro Be sure to follow Ike on social: https://twitter.com/ikeopara https://www.instagram.com/ikennaopara/

The boys discuss a great performance in San Jose, decide who is worse at soccer, Vega or Kashia, discuss the tactical adjustment with Dotson (We got Dotson here!) and preview the Bread Bowls coming to town.

Minnesota went into San Jose and thrashed San Jose in a 5-2 drubbing thanks to the well timed corner kicks from Jan Gregus and Ike Opara. The Loons will now head home with all six points from their first two matches and that left Jonathan Harrison and Dan Terhaar with a lot of praise to dish out on this edition of The Loon Call. You can find Jonathan on twitter @JonHarrison90 and Dan Terhaar on twitter at @danterhaar.

It's a Write That Down Wednesday and we're talking Vikings with Coller and Loons with Ike Opara on today's show. We open the show joined by Matthew Coller to talk about what Mike Zimmer said at today's NFL Combine Press Conference (1:00). We're then joined by Loons Defender and 2019 Defender of the Year Ike Opara to preview the upcoming Minnesota United season (33:00). We go through a quick accountability session before making our weekly predicitions in a Home Run Edition of Write That Down (53:00). We close out today's show with more MOCKS! and wrapping it all up with Reusse (1:15:00).

The makers of Sound of the Loons bring to you – its passionate followers – a series of Loon Dives with every player from the club, recorded during the club's media day and revolving around all things MNUFC, Minnesota and the journey that brought the players here. The Production Day Specials continue with a delightful conversation around returning to Minnesota and carrying a tradition of winning into 2020 with Kevin Molino, Ethan Finlay, Ozzie Alonso and a charming conversation with Ike Opara including his thoughts on the new MNUFC kit.

Action packed show today! We are joined by two guests. Ike Opara of Minnesota United and Ives Galarcep of SBI Soccer! A veteran player and a veteran journalist of American soccer. We turn the tables and interrogate Ike and we chop it up with Ives about our trip to Germany. A very fun one! Segment 1: Podperson of the Year (Ike Opara Interview - 23:00) Segment 2: Liga MX is Littty (Ives Galarcep Interview - 54:00) Today's Sponsor Live Breathe Futbol // Check out their dope clothing at www.livebreathefutbol.com and use the promo code GULLIEST for 15% off your first order.

Action packed show today! We are joined by two guests. Ike Opara of Minnesota United and Ives Galarcep of SBI Soccer! A veteran player and a veteran journalist of American soccer. We turn the tables and interrogate Ike and we chop it up with Ives about our trip to Germany. A very fun one! Segment 1: Podperson of the Year (Ike Opara Interview - 23:00) Segment 2: Liga MX is Littty (Ives Galarcep Interview - 54:00) Today's Sponsor Live Breathe Futbol // Check out their dope clothing at www.livebreathefutbol.com and use the promo code GULLIEST for 15% off your first order. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Seattle Sounders are the 24th MLS Cup champion. Andrew, Doyle, Calen and two-time Defender of the Year Ike Opara break down the 2019 season finale, Brian Schmetzer's star turn, Seattle's place in MLS history, Toronto FC's final disappointment, 2020 contenders and much more. Plus, Wiebe voluntarily gives Ike the opportunity to interrogate him a la the Benny & Sal Podcast. Will he plead the fifth?

A special guest joins Steve McPherson for the Sound of the Loons podcast! Ike Opara, fresh off winning 2019 MLS Defender of the Year, talks living in the Twin Cities, difficult matchups and closes the podcast with a round of Jerk or Nah. You can hear Ike almost every week on BS the Podcast, available everywhere podcasts are found. This Sound of the Loons episode is presented by Cub.

In this episode, Andrew Wiebe, David Gass, Bobby Warshaw and Matt Doyle preview the Western Conference playoff bracket with Sporting KC midfielder Benny Feilhaber. But first, that USMNT loss in Toronto. First things first, the guys give Canada the proper and requisite credit for a massive victory, not just for the Nations League but also Hexagonal qualification. Then time to fire up the panic meter to see where the USMNT stand and where they’re headed. Also in this episode … Benny Feilhaber talks Western Conference and BS the Podcast’s rapid rise, plus full previews for Seattle Sounders vs. FC Dallas, Real Salt Lake vs. Portland Timbers and Minnesota vs. LA Galaxy. 3:20 – OH CANADA! Huge win for John Herdman’s young squad 12:14 – Where is your USMNT panic meter? 24:45 – Does Gregg Berhalter have enough time to turn things around? Should he get it? 31:49 – PREVIEW: Seattle Sounders vs. FC Dallas 39:07 – PREVIEW: Real Salt Lake vs. Portland Timbers 45:10 – Ike Opara wins MLS Defender of the Year 46:51 – PREVIEW: Minnesota United vs. LA Galaxy 52:20 – INTERVIEW: Benny Feilhaber talks BS the Pod, LAFC and the Western playoffs

In this episode, Andrew Wiebe, Matt Doyle and Bobby Warshaw sit down to dig into second to last week of the regular season. The real fun, though, comes when the guys jump in the ETR Time Machine to see whether their preseason Baerantees and predictions came good … or flopped spectacularly. Also in this episode … Why LAFC aren’t invincible, how the Galaxy are primed for a spectacular collapse (or MLS Cup win) and how to beat both in the playoffs. Time to celebrate the Rapids, who might not make the playoffs but are better than the three teams in front of them. What’s wrong with FC Dallas? What’s the Revs’ postseason ceiling? Why hasn’t Ike Opara gotten USMNT call-ups? 3:23 – Who is the biggest threat to LAFC in the West? What’s the gameplan? 10:40 – Why doesn’t Ike Opara get USMNT call-ups? 11:49 – The Galaxy are flawed – that much is obvious – but will it be fatal? 21:34 – All hail the Rapids! The best team in the West outside LAFC 28:01 – What’s wrong with FC Dallas? Is their season already a success? 36:30 – The Revs are playoffs dangerous? The Revs are playoffs dangerous! 41:06 – Revisiting 2019 Baerantees (awful) and award predictions (less awful) 45:40 – Back to Benny Ball for D.C.? Why does the goals-allowed record keep getting broken? 49:03 – Are the Red Bulls better poised for playoff success now than post Shield? Subscribe to our YouTube playlist for every episode of Extratime: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcj4z4KsbIoVm6HVbbkKGX1VIJwTlCk07

In this special Labor Day episode, Andrew Wiebe and David Gass bring you interviews with four fascinating (but wildly different) North American soccer personalities. First up, Ike Opara, who arrived in Minnesota this offseason to help turn the Loons’ fortunes around. In his spare time, he grills opponents, friends and follow professional players on the BS Podcast. Also in the episode … DaMarcus Beasley on his final season, why he doesn’t get showered in gifts like Landon Donovan and the embarrassing accessory his running mate refused to part with back in the day. Plus, Earthquakes midfielder and US national team prospect Jackson Yueill sits down with David in Los Angeles, and Austin da Luz talks life in the second division as as he prepares to hang up his boots. 2:08 – Ike Opara on Minnesota United, marking Zlatan and podcasting 101 26:40 – DaMarcus Beasley is walking away, but he’s still got stories to share 37:01 – Jackson Yueill explains what Matias Almeyda is like behind the scenes 45:37 – North Carolina FC’s Austin da Luz on Playing for Pride, the second division

Andy Edwards and Charles Gooch break down Sporting KC's 1-0 win over Minnesota United (3:30). Despite a predictable attack Erik Hurtado gave SKC their second win in a row (6:01). Also for the second game in a row Ilie entered as a second half sub and spurred the offense (11:59). Graham Smith looked good as Ike Opara returned to KC (17:03). Salloi still hasn't scored, but he looks more confident (27:25). Listen to postgame shows live on Discord by subscribing to Patreon. www.patreon.com/talkintouches  

Are you here for Wayne Rooney unhinged, the Campeones Cup & beer flailing in LA?! Yet another first on the show, The Call-Up's first pod party. Jill & Susannah deep dive into MLS and podcasting with Benny Feilhaber and Sal Zizzo. Get a player's perspective! Benny & Sal weigh in on Rooney's tweet and discuss their pod partner Ike Opara. Jill shares what she learned from her Beyond the Stands shoot in Jordan and Susannah is off to St. Louis.   01:00 Jill's adventures in the Middle East, as Beyond the Stands was on location in Jordan with Mehdi Ballouchy! 04:00 Susannah reports back from her trip to LAFC 5:30 Here for This - LAFC beer showers 7:10 Here for This - Campenous Cup 10:30 Benny Feilhaber & Sal Zizzo join the show! They discuss their new pod & how it came about 14:30 Wayne Rooney's tweet - Benny & Sal's reaction 15:11 rapid fire with the guys 19:36 Ike Opara's role on the pod 21:19 Benny towing the line of player & podcaster 22:22 Sal new job & new city 26:48 Heineken Rivalry Week is coming & the real pronunciation challenge it presents 28:00 Jill & Sus' fav rivalRIES 28:47 Josef Martinez hair & interview in english 31:30 An RSL cat adopted by interim-coach Freddy Juarez 32:13 What's on tap?! Sus heads to the Lou! #MLS4theLou

With an odd Thursday match this week Cody, Robert, and Thad have a fresh new podcast covering all things Sporting Kansas City - and Missouri soccer. Saturday's big comeback win over San Jose Earthquakes was a breath of fresh air as we saw glimpses of the SKC team we know and love. But will it actually be the start of something, or will they follow this up with another loss as we've seen several times this season? Graham Smith has established himself as the backup centerback to Besler & Barath, plus Luis Martins had a solid match by not being very noticeable. St. Louis has finally been awarded an MLS team. It has been a long time coming and will mean a lot for soccer in Midwest, the league, and for fans wanting to see a true rivalry. But what might this mean for the expansive Sporting KC Academy? Minnesota United is far from a real rival, as the fans from both teams are as friendly with eachother as humanly possible. Thad is really "peeved" about the late 8:30pm kickoff in the middle of the week. What was MLS thinking? Our old friend Ike Opara will make his way back to Children's Mercy Park as part of the 2nd place team in the West. We talk about his impact on leaving SKC and arriving in Minnesota. We'll also tell you who was training and who is likely to be in Peter Vermes' starting lineup for another important match to keep playoff hopes alive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Andrew Wiebe, David Gass, Charlie Davies and Susannah Collins celebrate and dissect a Major League Soccer’s first final triumph over Liga MX in more than 20 years! Atlanta United knocked off Club America, 3-2, to win the second-ever Campeones Cup. David was there – it was electric at Mercedes Benz Stadium – to witness the magic of Piojo Herrera in person, Charlie says Darlington Nagbe needs another look from the USMNT and the whole crew tries to put the win in perspective.   Also in this show … Houston Dynamo GM Matt Jordan on Wilmer Cabrera’ dismissal and the future of the club, Ike Opara vs. the field for Defender of the Year, analyzing the ailing Sounders, celebrating the reported expansion to St. Louis and trying to imagine MLS’s future structure and hypothetical celebrity owners in MLS. 3:03 – MLS, ATL top Liga MX, Club America in Campeones Cup 8:01 – Why Darlington Nagbe should get another look with US 18:40 – INTERVIEW: Dynamo GM Matt Jordan on future of the club 39:13 – Charlie Davies says playoff hopes are dead for these teams… 43:58 – Ike Opara for Defender of the Year? Who else has a shot? 50:49 – #MLS4TheLou: Reported expansion to St. Louis! 55:01 – How might MLS work with 28 teams? Wiebe’s plan 57:55 – Which hypothetical celebrity owners would make MLS more fun?

Ike “Daddy” Opara joins the gang to talk about who he misses the least from SKC, how he brought Minnesota United to relevancy and who’s he gonna invite to his wedding ceremony.

Hear Ike's thoughts on forwards, competitive mentality, the evolution of the game in America and getting settled in MN!

Minnesota United CEO Chris Wright kicks off the show; Richard Pitino's recruiting class and Gopher hoops talk, United defender Ike Opara hops on the show and the guys close the hour more soccer talk.

Topics: Kristaps Porzingis' trade to the Dallas Mavericks, Anthony Davis trade rumors, Ike Opara trade to Minnesota United, Superbowl 53.

Hello soccer fans! Anyone have a CCL hangover yet? We'll cover that (and possible remedies) in our next episode, but right now we turn our attention to the 2019 Major League Soccer season as we preview the next four teams in the league, alphabetically: LAFC - This team has MLS Cup aspirations, and they have the talent on the roster to do it. They won't take anyone by surprise like they did in their expansion season, but with the likes of Vela and Rossi, and new signing Zelaya, LAFC are poised to win the West and the Cup. LA Galaxy - Coming off a season of dysfunction and failing to make the playoffs, Zlatan & Co. are primed to elevate their games. However, they still have too many Designated Players (DPs) on the roster and a new coach trying to implement a new system. With the Western Conference growing ever-stronger, where does this original MLS club fit in today's league? MNUFC - Minnesota United have declared they are ready to compete for trophies, not just points. They've got intstant defense by transferring in Ike Opara from Sporting KC and have solidified the midfield with international signing Jan Gregus. Now, can they link everything together to keep Ibarra and Quintero scoring goals? Montreal Impact - A team that flies under the radar until Ignacio Piatti does something spectacular, Montreal is looking to get back to the playoffs after nearly missing out in 2018. Whether or not the roster has been reworked enough to get there remains to be seen. Our hosts don't think they're quite at that level, and the Impact will likely be watching the 2019 MLS playoffs from home.   Thanks for listening and be sure to join the conversation in the comments below or on twitter @SOPSoccer.

February 6th, 2019 Sporting Kansas City manager Peter Vermes joined The Program to discuss the Ike Opara trade plus discuss his team as they prepare to open the 2019 season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Quiet week in MLS, huh? As the transfer window in Europe closed, MLS teams got pulled into the drama. First, Miguel Almiron finally got his Newcastle move for a fee that Andrew, Bobby and Dave argues changes the league as we know it. Then Sebastian Giovinco picked up and moved to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Why did the deal make sense for Toronto? What is the Atomic Ant's legacy? Oh, and Lucho Acosta to PSG? Mind blown. Also in this show ... Digging into DP moves by the Whitecaps and Revs, evaluating the Ike Opara trade and talking USMNT in the mailbag. 3:35 - Miguel Almiron to Newcastle 11:08 - Giovinco and Toronto FC part ways 22:39 - Lucho Acosta ... to PSG? 31:30 - Who won the Ike Opara trade? 44:25 - Vancouver grab Asian Cup star as Young DP 49:55 - Carles Gil to NE as a DP 53:33 - Mailbag 1:04:01 - Looking ahead to US-Costa Rica

The Daves you know and a Luke you don't discuss Ike Opara, grade the offseason so far, and can't stop dismissing chuds.

Minnesota United announces the signing of US centerback Ike Opara, making the move from Sporting KC to Minnesota. Steve McPherson and Callum Williams break down the move and discuss the criticism and praise the club received upon announcing the new addition.

Well, this has never happened before. We start talking about Sporting KC's big 7-0 preseason victory and tease the new kit (which we've seen!), but around the 30 minute mark we get breaking news (to us while we were recording at least!) that Ike Opara had been traded to Minnesota United. Hear us react live and break it down as best we could in the moment. We'll give full analysis and quotes from Peter Vermes next week! Follow us on Twitter @NoOtherPod, @JCMack03, and @DanKooser.

Things get dramatic as MNUFC signs Ike Opara as we record the pod this week. We cover that signing, all the others that have come through and review the latest from MLS, the Premier League, Bundesliga and much more!

We open hour two talking about Minnesota United's trade for Ike Opara as well as a possible comeback players on the Twins. Patrick Reusse joins early because we're joined to close the hour by PBA bowler Kyle Troup.

January 29th, 2019 The Program opened the show discussing Sporting Kansas City trading Ike Opara to Minnesota. How Peter Vermes takes a very Bill Beane approach to how he rusn SKC. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ike Opara has been traded to Minnesota United, and Andy and Charles breakdown the trade from all sides (7:35). What was Peter Vermes' thought process in dealing the former defender of the year (27:57)? What will Sporting do moving forward (42:02)? Support Talking' Touches by subscribing to our Patreon. www.patreon.com/talkintouches

Rodrigo, Wes, and Eric are back to talk three things: BenedettiWatch (the eternal pursuit of the Colombian playmaker), Ike Opara (we signed a CB!), and Christian Ramirez scoring for the USMNT.

On this episode of the MLS Aces Podcast Tom, Jason, and Sam talk about Pity Martinez, Miguel Almiron, Ike Opara, Johan Kappelhof, David Ousted, and Nick Hagglund. The guys then dive into the U.S. Men's National Team's 3-0 win over Panama to discuss their overall thoughts and top performers. The guys head to their "AA" meeting and play the second round of the TransferMarkt game. They finish off the episode with another fun draft, make sure you vote on Twitter!You can follow us on Twitter at: @MLSAces, @JasonVevang and @Uncle_SamXIIIYou can follow us on Instagram at: mls_aces, jasonvevang, and class_act13You can listen to the show on: Spotify, iTunes, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, BuzzSprout, The Beer Fridge Network (@BeerFridgePod), and the Beautiful Game Network (@thebgnfm)

In their weekly podcast, Sporting Kansas City defender Ike Opara and Star reporter Sam McDowell cycle through a series of random questions and get a peek of the conversation inside the club locker room. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In their weekly podcast, Sporting KC defender Ike Opara and reporter Sam McDowell analyze this takeaways from the midterm elections, how they arrive at their decisions and the races they followed closely. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sporting KC defender Ike Opara joins reporter Sam McDowell to preview the MLS playoffs, how the league should tweak its postseason format and Sporting locking down the top seed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In wake of the recent federal court case involving corruption in college basketball, reporter Sam McDowell and Sporting KC's Ike Opara delve into how the NCAA can fairly compensate its athletes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10-24-18 Nate Bukaty and Carter Augustine talk with Ike Opara, Matt Lawrence and Kerry Zavagnin about Sporting's 3-0 win over FC Dallas, and their upcoming match against LAFC.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, Sporting KC defender Ike Opara discusses the trend of single-sport specialization with Kansas City Star reporter Sam McDowell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode, Sporting KC defender Ike Opara discusses mental health and sports psychology with reporter Sam McDowell. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his weekly conversation with The Star’s Sam McDowell, Sporting KC defender Ike Opara discusses his favorites of Kansas City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Star’s Sam McDowell and Sporting Kansas City defended Ike Opara continue a weekly chat that delves into the thoughts of the MLS defender of the year, who spends considerable time pondering his responsibility on issues outside of soccer. This week’s conversation tackles the reaction Opara received after his comments on the national anthem protests and athlete censorship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Star's Sam McDowell and Sporting Kansas City defender Ike Opara launch a weekly chat that aims to focus on some occasional soccer talk with the reigning MLS defender of the year, but also delves more into the thoughts of a man who spends considerable time thinking about his place and responsibility in a nation sharply divided on a variety of issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Gartland joins us from Chicago and was not happy with what he saw. Who played welll in this 3-2 loss? Busio made his debut and Felipe Gutierrez made his comeback from injury but it was all for nothing. We talk about what the priorities for Peter Vermes now, defense or striker? Is this Ike Opara's worst season?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nate Bukaty hosts the SKC show from a special US Open Cup preview event at No Other Pub and discusses everything leading up to the game vs the Houston Dynamo. He brings on Carter Augustine, Ike Opara and more to join him on the show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's only Cody and Thad in the studio for this episode but Bob does join the crew with audio he got from training earlier in the week. Bob talked to Tim Melia about Emiliano Amor in case he has to start again and Peter Vermes about what to expect from New England. Thad discusses what he saw in training this week and how that might affect the lineup.  The health of Ike Opara, Felipe Gutierrez and Gerso are covered and their chances of playing.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nate Bukaty and Carter Augustine host the SKC show and talk all the latest plus bring in Ike Opara to talk about the great start for the team as well. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here they are, the top 9 moments from this year of #TheShowKC as picked by Shaylee. It's all here: Love in the Chip Aisle, April the giraffe, Roger Espinoza vs. Ike Opara, and more. Listen and relive some of the great moments of the year!

Is the sky falling for the US national team? Short answer ... no. Long answer ... don't look up. After a near catastrophic international break for Bruce Arena and the Americans, Andrew and Matt get together to break it all down. What's up with the stinkers against Costa Rica and Honduras? What can Arena do to right the ship? Why would anyone think missing the World Cup is the answer to the USMNT's current struggles? With that out of the way, the guys tackle Atlanta United's home-heavy slate as Mercedes-Benz Arena prepares for its first MLS match. Can the FIve Stripes get enough points to keep their playoff and MLS Cup dreams alive? If they don't, how big a blow is that to their banner first season? Plus, which non-playoff team is best equipped for 2018? ExtraTime Live driven by Continental: Like our page so you'll never miss a show! After the break, Sporting KC head coach Peter Vermes joins Andrew for a long, all-encompassing interview, including what makes the best defense in MLS so special, the MLS academy arms race, effect of TAM on rosters and scouting, Graham Zusi's career in KC and switch to right back and current plight of the US national team. Would Vermes consider the job? You bet, if he can bear to leave Sporting. Instead of the Hot-Take Hotline, Ike Opara and Tim Melia (Sporting KC) drop by for an off-the-cuff convo about All-Star snubs, fast cars, Vermes' health regimen and kickball games at Chivas USA. Stay tuned for lots of laughs and stories you've never heard before!

Nate Bukaty hosts the SKC show along with Carter Augustine, Jillian Carroll and their Cap Fed guest host, Mark. They talk everything SKC and bring in Ike Opara to talk as well. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Between the MLS All-Star roster, another shaky US national team performance in the Gold Cup, the wacky, wild and unpredictable return of MLS and a trash-talking billboard in Orlando, there just wasn’t enough time to talk about everything. We still did, though. Hit the play button for All-Star snubs, a roster breakdown and Fire insider segment with Chicago head coach Veljko Paunovic, USMNT analysis (don’t worry, there was no biting) and a head-scratching rundown of some wild games in Cascadia on Wednesday night. Oh, and there’s a bonus segment, as Sporting KC phenom Erik Palmer-Brown joins the guys to explain why he’s a Michelle Branch fan, what it’s like to go abroad as a teenager, why Ike Opara calls him his “son” and where he contract situation stands with time ticking down on his current deal. Of course, the guys also hit the Hot-Take Hotline, which is overflowing with gold from the most important people in the ETR world … the listeners!

Today is the day we have all been waiting for: Meltbox Ice Cream truck is coming by #TheShowKC to have us sample their ice cream stuffed donuts. Spoiler alert: it's amazing! Shark Week comes early in Jen's Impossible Question. Britney wants to perform at the Super Bowl...although Truta saw her at the Super Bowl before. What are words that men over 40 shouldn't say? Jen heard an old dude use "Cray Cray" in the supermarket. That shouldn't happen. The text line blew up with examples! It's Wednesday and that means time to play Gen-X vs Millennial. All Access with Shaylee had Blac Chyna news. The Show recapped last night's All Star Game and a rough Sporting KC match for Ike Opara. Then it was ice cream time... Justin from Meltbox Ice Cream truck came by to demonstrate his ice cream stuffed donuts. Everyone sampled and - take our word - it was pure amazeballs!

Football's coming home! Well Vancouver Whitecaps are anyway. After a tough four game road stretch, the 'Caps will be back at BC Place next weekend, returning with six points from 12, a new formation, and a lot more promise than how things were looking at the start of April. They may have lost on Friday night to Houston, but it was a good performance and they should be heading home now with a bit of a spring in their step. And they need to be, as there's a lot of hard work ahead for them if they are to stay in the playoff places. We look ahead to Saturday's game against the Western Conference leading Sporting Kansas City. Will there be a different formation? Who will come in and drop out? And will KC field a weaker team after their midweek exploits at home to Seattle? We get some clues as we hear from KC head coach Peter Vermes, defender Ike Opara, and Wednesday's hat-trick hero Gerso Fernandes We also hear from WFC2 centre back Francis de Vries about his favourite books and chat with TSS Rovers head coach Colin Elmes about their start to their first PDL season. The AFTN Soccer Show is brought to you in partnership with BCsoccerweb.com, your one stop site for all your BC, Canadian, and North American soccer news and links. Have a listen!

A feud is brewing in the @SportingKC locker room and #TheShowKC is right in the middle of it! On yesterday's Show, midfielder Roger Espinoza, when asked to name the dirtiest person in the locker room, threw down @IkeOpara's name. This didn't sit well with Opara, a Man of the People as his teammates call him. In the interest of fairness and equal time, The Show extended an offer to Opara to come on today and refute Roger's claims, which he does vociferously -- in addition to throwing Erik Palmer-Brown under the bus. Where does this end? The saga continues...catch Roger, Ike, Erik and the rest of Sporting KC at the home opener tomorrow night!

With days to go before the 2017 home opener, #TheShowKC caught up in studio with midfielder Roger Espinoza. Roger gave us some insight on his daily routine, how he gets pumped up for games and even threw Ike Opara under the bus for "dirtying up" their corner of the locker room....oh! Drama! #SKC

Nate Bukaty and Carter Augustine host the SKC Show live from No Other Pub in the Power and Light District ahead of the CONCACAF match vs Vancouver. Their Cap Fed guest host joines them as well as SKC defender Ike Opara! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another wild weekend of MLS action is in the books and with a loaded midweek slate there is no time to waste. Ben and Calen slot in place of regulars Andrew and Matt to run the rule over the whole weekend. Sporting KC hero Ike Opara joins the show to talk (from the bath tub) about his goalscoring return, his injury battles, his once promising bowling career, and more.   In the second segment Calen and Ben debate who is set up to be more successful in the playoffs Dallas or Colorado, what the kids can bring in Toronto, and so much more. In the mailbag the ETR crew put their MLS fandom on display, and try to decide which Kamara is the right Kamara.

Ike Opara has serious bounce. Dunk off two feet, sky above the pack on a set piece hops. The Sporting KC center back joins Andrew and Simon to talk ankle injuries, the best dead-ball defender in MLS, his alternate future as a basketball star and the NCAA Tournament. Plus, find out why his teammates are bothering him about MLS Fantasy.Ahead of another big MLS weekend, Andrew wonders why the league seems to be stuck in first gear. Of course, Simon disagrees. Taylor Twellman gives his take in the second segment, and chimes in on a USMNT side that has just two wins in 12 games and can't stop leaking late goals. What games are you watching this weekend? Let us know in the comment section below.In the mailbag, the one and only Victoria Borg joins in to dispel the myth of the scoreboard, the guys debate whether another United belongs in MLS and there's a case of mistaken gender.

Hi everyone and welcome to the New York City Football Club Fan Podcast. Who am I? Well I'm your host, Andrés Emilio Soto, a real estate agent in NYC and a season ticket holder who sits in Section 205, so come say hi! This podcast is by fans and for fans. I want you to voice your opinion, give feedback, provide your thoughts about NYCFC and to have fun while doing this. To leave a message visit NYCFCPodcast.com/talk. Now on to today's show. Recap Corner Boy do I hate being right in this scenario. In front of a sold out crowd of 27,545 fans NYCFC came up a goal short in their one zero loss to Sporting Kansas City. New York City Football Club's first loss of the season now drops them down to 3rd place in the Eastern Conference, tied with Orlando City SC at 5 points. NYCFC was without forward David Villa, midfielder Sebastian Velasquez and defender Josh Williams due to injury. Furthermore forwards Khiry Shelton and Adam Nemec were unavailable due to international call ups. The lone goal came from a thrown in by Sporting KC's Captain, Matt Besler, which was targeted for the head of the rushing Ike Opara's head who struck the ball like lightning. This time around Josh Saunders was not able to make a save. From my point of view it seemed like Sporting Kansas City's strategy in the first half was to stuff NYCFC on their half of the field basically using the smaller Yankee Stadium field as a disadvantage. Every time NYCFC had the ball it appeared they could not get out of the half line mark. The Club either lobbed the ball too far, made erroneous passes or lost control of the ball. It wasn't until late in the first half that NYCFC started to find some open space and they played a much better and fluid game in the second half yet missed key shots on goal. Next up for NYCFC is an away Match against the Philadelphia Union on April 11th. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTteLtc3Njc Analysis Corner Matt Reed appears on the show and we discuss the following: Recap/ Analysis of the game against Sporting Kansas City How our team adapted to not have key starters such as David Villa. Khiry Shelton vs Adam Nemec What MetroSoccerNation.com is currently working on. Podcast Links NYCFC.com - NYCFC Vs Sporting Kansas City Match Recap MetroSoccerNation.com - New York City FC saw major contributions from reserves against Sporting KC   If you liked this episode then subscribe to the rest on: If you have a chance, please leave me an honest rating and review on iTunes by clicking here. It will help the show and its ranking in iTunes immensely! I appreciate it! Enjoy the show! Interact with us on Facebook  

The SBI Show: Episode 200 (w/special guests Ike Opara, Manny Lagos and Doug McIntyre)