Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast

The Gold Cup quarterfinals are locked in, and the USMNT is set for a high-stakes clash with Costa Rica in Minneapolis. Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and special guest Stu Holden, break down the full knockout bracket and what’s at stake.The guys look ahead to the USMNT vs. Los Ticos matchup, revisit the long-standing rivalry, and ask whether this team is peaking at the right time. Has Malik Tillman become the USMNT’s most important attacker? And can Patrick Agyemang continue his rise?Plus, a dominant night from Panama’s Ismael Díaz, Canada’s chaotic win over nine-man El Salvador, and Guatemala surviving Guadeloupe. The guys also grade recent transfer news, including Malik Tillman to Bayer Leverkusen, Johnny Cardoso to Atlético Madrid, and what Lyon’s relegation could mean for Matt Turner and Tanner Tessmann.Finally, the guys chat Club World Cup action. Do we miss the good ol’ Confederations Cup? Presented by Yerba Madre #CometoLIfe Intro (0:00)Canada Tops 9-Man El Salvador (1:50)Ismael Diaz Earns Hatty (12:44)Gold Cup Quarterfinals Are Set (20:13)USMNT Transfer News (29:02)Inter Miami Carries MLS Banner in Club World Cup (43:58) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The USMNT closes out the Gold Cup group stage with a 2-1 win over Haiti, securing all nine points and the top spot in Group D. Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and special guest Maurice Edu break down the win — including Malik Tillman’s standout performance, Patrick Agyemang’s hard-earned game-winner, and key lineup decisions. The crew also discusses Matt Freese’s costly giveaway, whether Tillman is locking in a long-term role, and what to expect in the quarterfinal matchup vs. Costa Rica.Plus, a full recap of the day’s Gold Cup action. Saudi Arabia and Trinidad & Tobago share points, Mexico and Costa Rica play to a scoreless draw, and Tuesday’s Group B & C showdowns decide the remaining quarterfinal spots. To wrap things up, Alexi reflects on the USMNT’s legendary 1994 World Cup win over Colombia—31 years ago today.Presented by Yerba Madre #CometoLifeIntro (0:00)USMNT Clashes with Haiti in Group D (4:02)Is Malik Tillman a Potential World Cup Starter? (12:11)Matt Turner vs Matt Freese (17:51)Dante Sealy’s Goal of the Tournament (21:43)Group A Recap (23:03)Club World Cup Action (29:24) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Curaçao delivered the shock of Matchday 2 with a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer against Canada, keeping Group B wide open. Alexi Lalas and David Mosse break down what went wrong for Jesse Marsch’s side and how changes to the starting XI may have backfired.The guys look ahead to the USMNT's final group stage clash against Haiti, with updates on injuries, potential lineup changes, and what success looks like for the United States this summer. Will Tyler Adams return to the starting lineup? And who needs to step up with Diego Luna and Sebastian Berhalter sitting on yellows?They wrap the show by previewing Group A’s matchups and discussing Gio Reyna and the Dortmund bench watching from the locker room during Club World Cup action.Presented by Yerba Madre #CometoLifeIntro (0:00)Canada Drops Points in Group B (3:30)Jeremy Antonisse's Late Equalizer (7:43)Honduras Bounces Back (13:48)USMNT Eyes Top of Group D (16:10)What does success look like for USMNT this summer? (20:52)Group A Preview (25:46)Gio Reyna Watches Club World Cup from Locker Room (28:07) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leon Bailey dazzles in San Jose, leading Jamaica to a comeback win over Guadeloupe with a wonder strike and relentless pressure. Alexi Lalas and David Mosse break down the Reggae Boyz’s performance and Panama’s 1-0 win over Guatemala. With the USMNT securing back-to-back wins and a spot in the quarterfinals, the guys continue the center back conversation and preview lineup decisions ahead of Sunday’s clash with Haiti. Plus, the controversy at Jesse Marsch's post-match presser, and what to expect from Canada and the rest of Group C. Club World Cup results round out the show.Presented by Yerba Madre #CometoLifeIntro (0:00)Leon Bailey Boosts Jamaica (2:15)Panama Tops Guatemala 1-0 (7:41)USMNT vs Haiti Preview (11:15)Is Tim Ream our Starting CB? (14:34)Jesse Marsch Reacts (19:35)Club World Cup Action (24:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Richards delivers a statement performance on both ends of the field as the USMNT grinds out a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia. Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and special guest Landon Donovan break down Richards' game-winning goal off a set piece and his crucial defensive stops. Is he the leader this backline needs? The guys also discuss Matt Freese’s solid showing in net, and what Pochettino’s consistent XI says about World Cup planning.Then, a look ahead to a critical Group C showdown as Jamaica faces Guadeloupe and Guatemala battles Panama, with knockout stage spots on the line. In Club World Cup action, Lionel Messi makes history again — scoring the match-winner for Inter Miami in their 2-1 victory over Porto, marking the first MLS win over a European club in a competitive match. Presented by Yerba Madre #CometoLife Intro (0:00)Trinidad & Tobago and Haiti Draw 1-1 (3:57)USMNT Rolls Out Same Starting XI vs Saudi Arabia (5:55)Chris Richards Saves the Day (15:00)Set Piece Goals (22:44)Pochettino’s Approach Against Haiti (26:03)Group C Preview (32:38)Messi’s Inter Miami Makes History (36:11) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and special guest Mo Edu dive into the Gold Cup action following Mexico’s second half goals in the night game. Costa Rica snatches a late winner over the DR, Mexico punches their ticket thanks to set-piece domination, and Jesse Marsch is under the microscope again. Alexi drops his latest CONCACAF Power Rankings—Canada on top, USMNT hanging on. We break down the USMNT Starting XI ahead of their clash with Saudi Arabia: who’s in, who’s out, and who needs to step up. Plus, Pochettino responds to the doubters.The FIFA Club World also rolls on tonight with Captain Weston McKennie and Tim Weah securing a 5-0 win in their opening match. How much can we really glean from this tournament? Intro (0:00)Costa Rica Late Game Winner (5:16)Set Pieces, Set Pieces, Set Pieces (10:22)Jesse Marsch Under Investigation (17:29)USMNT Predicted Starting XI & Pochettino Getting Revenge on the Doubters? (22:54)Captain Weston McKennie (33:37) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this day 31 years ago, the 1994 FIFA World Cup kicked off on U.S. soil—and with just under a year to go until the next one at home, Alexi Lalas reflects on that historic moment.In today’s Gold Cup action, Curaçao and El Salvador battled to a scoreless draw, while Canada sent a clear message with a dominant 6-0 win over Honduras. Canada’s depth shined tonight, as the young star Promise David netted his first CONCACAF Gold Cup goal. Is Canada the favorite to win it all? And whose opening win was more impressive: Canada or the United States?Plus, good news for the USMNT—Tyler Adams, Johnny Cardoso, and Damion Downs are back in training ahead of Thursday’s match against Saudi Arabia. With key players returning, Mauricio Pochettino has some big decisions to make when setting his Starting XI. Intro (0:00)Gold Cup: Day 4 Recap (5:51)Boost of the Game: Promise David Shows Canadian Depth (15:16)Adams & Cardoso Back for USMNT (19:52)Club World Cup Update (22:45)Group A Rolls On (24:40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Guatemala stuns Jamaica and Panama puts on a show on Day 3 of the Gold Cup! Alexi Lalas and David Mosse highlight standout performances across Group C, including Ismael Díaz’s brace against Guadeloupe and Oscar Santis’ screamer to upset Jamaica.They also discuss Michail Antonio’s inspiring return just 196 days after a tragic car accident, the ongoing debate over the USMNT’s best center-back pairing, and whether Tyler Adams will suit up against Saudi Arabia on Thursday.Plus, the guys preview tomorrow’s Group B action and debate whether Canada—and Jesse Marsch—deserve the title of CONCACAF’s best. Intro (0:00)Panama Dominates Guadaloupe (3:20)Oscar Santis Stuns Reggae Boys (6:57)Boost of the Game: Michail Antonio Inspiring Return (12:35)Tyler Adams Gold Cup Status (14:45)Is Jesse Marsch the Best Coach in CONCACAF? (26:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The USMNT opens their CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign with a dominant 5-0 win over Trinidad & Tobago! Alexi Lalas and David Mosse break down standout performances from Malik Tillman and Diego Luna, and react to Mauricio Pochettino’s pointed comments about Tillman’s fight and commitment. The guys also dive into the striker debate: Patrick Agyemang got the start—will Haji Wright be next against Saudi Arabia?Plus, a look ahead to tomorrow’s Group C matchups, including Panama vs. Guadeloupe and a showdown between Jamaica and Guatemala. All that and more in a packed live recap!Presented by Yerba Madre #CometoLifeIntro (0:00)USMNT vs Trinidad & Tobago Recap (4:32)Luna & Tillman: Dynamic Duo (8:14)Pochettino on Tillman’s Mentality (9:25)Who Starts Next? Agyemang or Wright? (16:56)Group C Preview: Panama, Guadeloupe, Jamaica, Guatemala (25:44) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mexico holds off a historic Dominican Republic rally in a wild 3-2 Gold Cup tournament opener! Alexi Lalas and David Mosse break down all the drama—from Edson Álvarez’s opening header to Raul Jiménez’s clinical finish and the Dominican Republic’s first-ever Gold Cup goal.Plus, we turn the page to tomorrow’s big USMNT clash with Trinidad and Tobago. Alexi reveals the three players who will make or break the United States’ Gold Cup run, and we unpack the latest comments from Mauricio Pochettino and Jesse Marsch on Christian Pulisic’s decision to sit out the international window.Stick around for predictions, throwback to the 2021 Gold Cup champs, and a look ahead to Group D matchups. It’s chaos, controversy, and CONCACAF—just how we like it. Intro (0:00)Mexico vs Dominican Republic Recap (4:46)Boost of The Game: Santi Giménez to Raul Jiménez (8:40)USMNT Opens Gold Cup Run with Trinidad and Tobago (11:20)Mauricio Pochettino & Jesse Marsch Latest Thoughts (18:58)U.S. Players to Make or Break USMNT Gold Cup Performance (21:23) Presented by Yerba Madre #ComeToLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With just one year until the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup kicks off on home soil, Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and Rob Stone reunite to break down what success actually means for the USMNT next summer. From past performance stats and future expectations, the crew evaluates how far this team has come since 1994, 2002, and 2014—and how far they still need to go.Alexi opens the show with a look at what's ahead for the team, including a pivotal Gold Cup.A listener chimes in for #AskAlexi, including a classic debate: 1994 vs. 2026? Then, it’s a global check-in with Alexi’s World Cup Power Rankings. Spain tops the list, but who joins them in the top ten? And who are the five players that could define the 2026 tournament?All that, plus a USMNT style-of-play debate and historical FIFA rankings comparisons. Don’t miss this milestone episode. Intro(0:00) What Does Success Look for the USMNT? (3:42)USMNT Style of Play Debate (18:11)USMNT Historical Comparison (25:09)1994 vs Today (30:39)Alexi's Top 10 World Cup Power Rankings (43:13)Players That Will Decide the 2026 FIFA World Cup (51:15) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The USMNT suffers a brutal 4-0 home loss to Switzerland, Alexi Lalas and David Mosse break down the nightmare first half and the experimental Starting XI. With just one year to go until the World Cup, this performance continues to raise doubts about the USMNT's depth and leadership. Plus the guys chat Tyler Adams' injury concerns and transfer updates on Matt Turner and Yunus Musah. To wrap, Alexi and Mosse preview the USMNT's Gold Cup group and check in on World Cup qualifying across the globe. Intro (0:00)USMNT's 4th-Straight Loss (1:42)Mr. Pulisic vs Landon Donovan (16:18)Turner & Musah Transfer News (26:50)International Window Roundup (29:58) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse react LIVE to the USMNT’s 2-1 loss to Türkiye, breaking down debut performances from Matt Freese and Alex Freeman, Jack McGlynn’s first-minute stunner, and Johnny Cardoso’s costly mistake. They also dive into Tyler Adams’ second-half leadership and post-match takeaways. Plus, could Mauricio Pochettino really leave the USMNT for Tottenham? The guys wrap up with a preview of Tuesday’s match vs. Switzerland, a look ahead to Gold Cup group play, and the latest headlines from the Nations League and CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers. Intro (0:00) Instant Reactions (1:33) Tyler Adams Brings 2nd Half Spark (13:22) Pochettino to Spurs? (21:02) International Window Recap (25:13) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The USMNT’s final 26-man roster for the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup is here. With Sergiño Dest and Zack Steffen being added to a long list of key players missing out, the spotlight turns to the youth-driven squad. Alexi Lalas, David Mosse, and special guest Rob Stone break down who’s in, who’s out, and what it means for the U.S. heading into the tournament and leading up to the summer of 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer Thomas Dooley joins State of the Union to reflect on his remarkable journey from the German leagues to captaining the USMNT on the world stage. He shares stories from his time at FC Kaiserslautern, his transition to American soccer, and passion for playing for the red, white and blue.Dooley also dives into his coaching stints across the globe—from the Philippines to Malaysia—and offers insight to his experience. Plus, Thomas teases his upcoming book and the five essential keys to success. Intro (0:00)Thomas Dooley Joins the Pod (1:13)Experience as a Dual National (4:45)Dooley's Perspective on American Soccer (9:16)Coaching Abroad (14:43)The Writing Process (19:45) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are joined by FOX Sports Insider Doug McIntyre to break down which USMNT players could (or should) be on the move this summer. From Matt Turner’s limited minutes to Gio Reyna’s stalled momentum and Johnny Cardoso’s Atletico Madrid links — the guys dig into who needs a fresh start ahead of the 2026 World Cup. They also dive into the USMNT Training Camp roster updates. Walker Zimmerman, Nathan Harriel, and Paxten Aaronson will join the squad, as Folarin Balogun and others step out due to injuries. Is it still “Title or Bust” for the United States, or have the expectations shifted? The show continues with a look around the global game. The Nations League Final Four is set with Germany facing Portugal and Spain taking on France, while South America gets heated in CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying. On the women’s side, the USWNT rolled past China in a 3–0 win led by Catarina Macario and Sam Coffey, with another friendly coming up against Jamaica.Mosse breaks down the latest club results, including PSG and Cruz Azul’s domination in their respective continental titles matches. Back stateside, LAFC clinched a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup with a comeback win over Club América. Messi put on a clinic in the MLS as Inter Miami crushed the Crew, LA Galaxy snapped a 17-match winless streak, and D.C. United pulled off a big road upset over Cincinnati. Listeners chime in during #AskAlexi, with questions about Alexi’s coaching aspirations and 1994 hairstyle promises. To wrap the pod, Alexi shares a surprise with Mosse from his weekend event with USSF. Intro (0:00) Doug McIntyre Joins the Pod: Transfer News & Gold Cup Preview (6:21) International Window Preview (26:04) USWNT 3-0 Win (33:30) UCL & CCC Final Recap (35:01) Messi Brace & Galaxy Winless Streak Ends (51:45) #AskAlexi (56:26) One for the Road (1:00:34) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on State of the Union, the guys react to the latest Gold Cup roster updates, as goalkeeper Chris Brady replaces the injured Patrick Schulte. Meanwhile, Fulham announces that Jedi Robinson has undergone knee surgery—though he was already ruled out of the tournament. What do these injuries mean for the USMNT’s chances this summer? With the European club season officially in the books, Alexi and Mosse unveil their 2024–25 USMNT Abroad Awards, including picks for Goal of the Season, Assist of the Season, Player of the Season, and more. Over the weekend, Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah got the start in their final Serie A match of the season and finished 8th overall in the standings. Weston McKennie and Tim Weah helped Juventus secure their Champions League spot with a win over Gianluca Busio and Venezia. Should Busio consider a move this summer? Then, a look ahead to the Champions League Final—PSG vs. Inter Milan this Saturday in Munich—and a breakdown of major Liga MX vs. MLS clashes on the horizon, including the FIFA Club World Cup playoff between LAFC and Club America as well as the CONCACAF Champions Cup Final between Cruz Azul and Vancouver. Will Brian White be able to lead the Whitecaps to victory without Sebastian Berhalter? To close the show, the guys discuss Christian Pulisic’s Gold Cup decision, revisit iconic World Cup anthems, and share memories from the legendary 1994 U.S. World Cup squad. Intro (0:00)USMNT Abroad Awards (6:26)Serie A Title Race (26:26)UCL & CONCACAF Champions Cup Final Preview (34:30)#AskAlexi (41:44)One for the Road (54:46) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The USMNT’s Gold Cup roster is here, and it’s stirring plenty of debate. Notable absences include stars Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and Jedi Robinson. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Pulisic will rest, while Musah withdrew for personal reasons. Josh Sargent? Simply left out due to tactical preference. The spotlight this summer turns to fresh faces, with five players—Alex Freeman, Damion Downs, Sebastian Berhalter, Quinn Sullivan, and Matt Freese—set to make their senior debuts. While familiar names like Tyler Adams and Folarin Balogun anchor the team, breakout potential lies in players like Diego Luna, Brian White, and Sebastian Berhalter, who could become national team regulars with strong showings. The big question: does this roster still scream “Gold Cup Title or Bust”? Off the field, the timing matters. This summer was supposed to build momentum—think trophy lifts and confetti—heading into the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup on home soil. Instead, we’re left wondering who will lead this group. Tim Ream? Tyler Adams? With upcoming games vs. Türkiye and Switzerland before the group stage kicks off, it’s time for new heroes to emerge. Instant Reaction: No Pulisic, Musah, Robinson (4:02) Players that will step up (21:37) Back to front roster breakdown (24:46) Alexi’s projected starting XI (40:30) Stu joined 25 Words or Less gameshow (50:18) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this podcast episode, former professional soccer player Amir Lowery shares insights from his journey through the American soccer landscape and his transition into advocacy and leadership. A Wake Forest standout from 2001 to 2004, Lowery was drafted by the Colorado Rapids in 2005 and spent several years navigating both MLS and USL rosters, including stints with Kansas City and the Montreal Impact. After retiring from professional play in 2012, he launched a new chapter focused on social impact—culminating in his 2020 run for D.C.’s seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Lowery discusses the origins of Open Goal Project, a youth soccer initiative started in 2015, and the organization's shift in 2019 from supporting players to establishing its own club. He outlines the current structure of Open Goal, including how many teams they field and the challenges they face operating within the U.S. youth soccer system. Lowery offers candid thoughts on what needs to change in the national setup, comparing today's youth development landscape to when he began Open Goal. He closes by reflecting on the best and worst aspects of soccer in America—emphasizing both its immense potential and the barriers that still limit access and equity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest State of the Union episode, we highlight the FA Cup triumph for Crystal Palace, who ended a 119-year drought with a 1-0 win over Manchester City. Chris Richards played a starring role, becoming—along with Matt Turner—the first USMNT player to win the FA Cup since Tim Howard in 2004. In the Netherlands, Malik Tillman capped PSV’s 3-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam, completing a remarkable Eredivisie turnaround where Ajax went from nine points up to one point behind. In Italy, Juventus took a step toward Champions League qualification as Weston McKennie and Tim Weah featured in a 2-0 win. Roma beat AC Milan 3-1 despite an assist from Pulisic. Meanwhile, Inter and Napoli drew, pushing the Serie A title race to the final day. In Germany, Gio Reyna’s late appearance in Dortmund’s 3-0 win sealed a UCL spot, though his emotional reaction hinted at a possible farewell. Where would you like Reyna to land next season? In La Liga, Lamine Yamal dazzled again, scoring his 17th goal in all competitions. Is he truly the best player in the world? MLS Rivalry Week saw intense matchups: Reus saved LA Galaxy with a free-kick, while Inter Miami’s form collapsed in a 3-0 loss to Orlando. We closed the pid with a breakdown of the U.S. Gold Cup 60-man prelim roster, headlined by Pulisic, Balogun, and Tyler Adams, with debates on sleeper picks like Sebastian Berhalter. Who does AI think Mauricio Pochettino will select for this week's 26-man roster? USMNT Abroad: PSV wins title, Turner & Richards make history (5:08)MLS Rivalry Week: El Trafico madness, Messi & Miami’s poor form (26:44)#AskAlexi: The importance (or lack thereof) soccer head coaches (38:38)One For The Road: AI predicts USMNT Gold Cup Roster (44:50) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices