6/23/26 US wins group plays Turkey Thu 10 pm, Spectacular World Cup games & Fans, WC TV schedule, Ole Ballcoach Roadtrip with the US Men, Carmel FC team advances

US Smashes The Aussies 2-0 to Advance – Plays Turkey Thur 10 pm
Wow what an experience it was to be on hand for the US beatdown of the Aussies on dos a cero! (Highlights)
Amazing Country Roads   Reactions Across the Nation   Love this Goal Reaction from Freeman

The US got off to another great start forcing Australia into an own goal as Balogun & Pepi started in a double 9 alignment – confusing the Kangaros. Defender Freeman got the next goal on a free kick as the 21 year old continued his stellar play. Reactions Across the Nation. I am going to say it now – I WAS COMPLETELY WRONG about Pochettino! I had questioned his choice of players, how he brought them to prior camps and how the starters didn’t play together once during the buildup to the Cup. Poch said trust me -” “I have to break it down and put it back together.” He came in and removed the automatic starting status for many of the regulars (Mckennie, Pulisic, Dest) – making everyone earn their way onto the squad. I think the biggest thing is he has freed the boys to play soccer without thinking. The team is so much more free flowing and they seem to know where to go and how to play. Why ? Because Poch’s schemes make sense and the players have bought in. Berhalter tried to get the team to play a certain way that simply didn’t make sense to the team – having them move to unnatural positions in his flawed scheme. The boys say Poch believes in them and tells them to play they way they play in Europe at their clubs. then adjust to his incredible attack plan for each different opponent. At 2-0 and as group winners we should assume Poch will slightly rotate the squad. He has to sit the 4 players on Yellows – Adams, Robinson, Richards & Balo. Changed my mind – going with a lot more starters now as we prepare for Turkey. I think Poch wants to keep the rhythm going. I do think he will sub quicker and get some guys who haven’t played yet on the field. I think the US finds a way to win 2-1 vs Turkey. Maybe Turkey won’t care as they are out of the cup.

16 million English Language viewers is most viewers to see a US Mens Match.  Post Game scenes – Mark McKennsie spreading the love   Thanks to Indy’s Pat McAfee for being the only ESPN person covering the World Cup Properly.  Loved this from Landon Donovan on what he learned being cut from the World Cup Squad.

Messi’s Record-Breaking World Cup

Lionel Messi has become the all-time leading goal scorer at the men’s World Cup after scoring his 17th and 18th tournament goals in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria. Messi (Hat video in Spanish In English) Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, has now scored two more than the previous record-holder, Germany striker Miroslav Klose, whose 16 goals came between 2002 and 2014. Messi achieved this feat in 28 matches, the most World Cup matches played by any individual. The closest active player to Messi’s record is France’s Kylian Mbappe, who has scored 16 World Cup goals — see the full list of the leading men’s World Cup goal scorers here. Having already become the first man to play at six World Cups, Messi could break further records during this tournament. His brace against Austria extended his scoring run to six consecutive World Cup matches, drawing him level with Just Fontaine and Jairzinho. He is also level with Diego Maradona for the most assists in men’s World Cup history, with eight. Messi could break either record when Argentina, who have now secured their place in the World Cup’s round of 32, face Jordan in their final group-stage match on June 27. Highlights of Argentina vs Austria (US link). Honestly this is the best World Cup I have ever seen – mostly competitive games, some upsets, and the Stars showing up. World Cup 3rd place Teams how are they determined.

Stars are Showing Out at this Best World Cup Ever?

If you are new to Soccer – you are getting a warm welcome to some of the Best Soccer we have ever seen in this World Cup so far. The goal – scoring is up 25% in the group stage Messi scores his first #FIFAWorldCup hat-trick. Norway’s Erling Holland’s scored 2 to get to 58 goals in 52 games. MBappe is just 2 goals behind Messi with 16 WC Goals & here’s his 2 vs Iraq.  And Finally after much criticism and questions over whether he should be starting – Ronaldo announced he’s back with these 2 goals. The top players in the World are flat showing up. In addition the TV #s are through the roof – making this the Most Watched World Cup ever in the US thru the Group stages. Great to see US refs including Tori Pense & the American All Women Crew doing a group stage game. (More in Reffing below). First it was the Scots and now the Dutch and Norway have arrived. The Crazy Fans have been the best — The Dutch  More Dutch  Norway Fans take over Times Square  Norway Rows up the Escalator in Boston.  Loved seeing Norway players doing the Row post game. More angles The Row.

Following The US Men – Ole Ballcoach Road Trip across the West

So Courtney & I traveled to Seattle for Game 2 vs Australia – here’s some game pics including Country Roads.and sitting 2 seats over from former American Forward John Harkes and in front of US/Seattle Defender Chad Marshall (who lives in Carmel now). Loved the American Outlaw March to the Stadium – Walking around Seattle  Postgame USA finding a place to watch Brazil game. Thanks to cousins Darryll & Dee Dee Beliel for putting us up and being our car service. We came back to LA and after hitting In-N-Out I went to the Iran vs Belgium game with Tom Hogenesch. Off to Game 3 vs Turkey Thurs 10 pm – before we trek to San Fran for the Knockout rounds.  So Blessed to be here.

NATIONAL CUP BOUND! What a weekend for Carmel FC 13G Gold NL! 💙💛
After an outstanding performance beating teams from MD and NJ at the US Youth Soccer National League Cup Northeast Playoffs in Fredericksburg, Virginia, our girls have officially qualified for the National League Cup Finals in St. Louis!
Congratulations to our players, coach Matt & Tracey, and families on an incredible accomplishment. The journey continues, and now it’s time to represent Indiana and the blue and gold in St. Louis in July.
The journUnited States Youth Soccer (US Youth Soccer) Indiana Soccer Associationcer) Indiana Soccer Association


TV Schedule – Games on TV

Weds, June 24
3 pm Fox Switzerland vs Canada
3 pm FS1 Bosnia vs Qatar
6 pm Fox Scotland vs Brazil
6 pm FS1 Morocco vs Haiti
9 pm Fox Czech Republic vs Mexico
9 pm South Africa vs Korea
Thur, June 25
4 pm Fox Ecuador vs Germany
4 pm FS1 Curacoa vs Cote d’Ivoire
7 pm Fox Japan vs Sweden
7 pm FS1 Tunisia vs Netherlands
10 pm Fox, Tele, Peacock USA Men vs Australia World Cup
10 pm FS1 Paraguay vs Australia
Friday, June 26
3 pm Fox Norway vs France
3 pm FS1 Senegal vs Iraq
8 pm Fox Uruguay vs Spain
8 pm FS 1 Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia
8 pm Prime KC Current vs Gotham FC NWSL
11 pm Fox New Zealand vs Belgium
11 pm FS1 Egypt vs Iran
Saturday, June 27
5 pm FS1 Croatia vs Ghana
5 pm Fox Panama vs England
7:30 pm Fox Colombia vs Portugal

7:30 pm FS1 Congo vs Uzbekistan
10 pm Fox Jordan vs Argentina
10 pm FS1 Algeria vs Austria
Sunday, June 27
3 pm Fox Round of 32 Begins
World Cup Printable Schedule

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USA

If there was a time to dream big about the USMNT at the World Cup, it’s now Sam Borden
USMNT World Cup scenarios and path: What’s next after winning the group?ESPN
With a nation divided, USMNT to the rescue?
2026 World Cup: Scouting Türkiye
USMNT player ratings: Freeman a surprise star with 7/10 performance to stonewall Australia
Analysis: USMNT defeats Australia 2-0, wins Group D, begins knockout prep
Ex-Packer Freeman: Alex goal made Father’s Day
Pulisic sits, but U.S. finds a way vs. Australia to reach World Cup KO rounds
USA Outlasts Socceroos to win 2-0
Analysis: USMNT defeats Australia 2-0, wins Group D, begins knockout prep
Country Roads & Seismic Activity: How the USMNT’s Win Over Australia Shook
‘The Evolution is Massive’: Alex Freeman’s Meteoric Rise Key for USMNT

World Cup


From U.S. to Spain, why every round-of-32 team will, won’t win FIFA World Cup

Why the luck of playing in certain venues could decide who wins the World Cup
– Laurens: France star Kylian Mbappé is fast becoming ‘Mr. World Cup’
– Becherano: Messi shows why he’s the GOAT with record-breaking goals
– Messi, Haaland, Mbappé, Kane: Who will be the World Cup’s top scorer?

Haaland nets 2 more as Norway clinch knockouts
World Cup Reacts results: Which big team’s in trouble, who will play Cinderella?
Best goals of the first group stage play-through
2026 World Cup, Matchday 13: Match thread and discussion

World Cup ‘smart’ ball is a game changer. Just don’t forget to charge it
Giant Czech flag swallows World Cup staff member

World Cup Fans

The Dutch  More Dutch  
Norway Fans take over Times Square   
Loved seeing Norway players doing the Row   
More angles The Row 
Norway fans hit iconic ‘Viking Row’ up an escalator – ESPN Video

Goalkeeping

The Trianda Ball – Movement
Iran GK Alirreza great double save 
Eloy Room has 15 saves – just short of  US GK Tim Howard’s Record 16 vs Belgium
Best Goalkeeper Saves of FIFA World
BEST SAVES OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP
Unforgettable saves in FIFA World Cup. :

Reffing

World Cup VAR review: Should one of Messi’s record-breaking goals have been disallowed?
Tori Pense & American All Women Crew
Tori Penso American Ref
1st Covered Mouth Red Card
Arguing Red Card over Covered mouth
Dogso Iran Game Red Card
Australia vs US No Handball?
Reffing Lower Level games is tough

My players certainly know about Pickle Juice baby !!



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It’s (finally) OK to dream big about USMNT and World Cup

  • Sam BordenJun 20, 2026, 09:00 AM ETSPNFC

SEATTLE — Faith is what makes sports great. Belief. Hope. Trust. All over the United States, for college teams and pro teams, big teams and small teams, good teams and bad teams, there are followers who believe — truly believe — that joy will come in the morning. But for the U.S. men’s national team, it has always been different. No one can say for sure why. For some, it might be the relative superiority that Americans have in other sports compared with soccer. For others, it might be the lack of a mainstream international star. A sizable group is universally cynical about a game that’s more popular everywhere else in the world than it is here. In this country, mediocre results rarely lead to sustained universal doubt from those who love a team — just ask Dallas Cowboys fans in August what they think about the upcoming season — but with the USMNT, skepticism has persisted.

Until now. Now, it’s OK to believe. Now, it’s OK to be optimistic, to think big and imagine this group doing something grand. The players are doing their best to stay in the moment, to give the modest quotes that allow them to handle the pressure that comes their way. But even they are considering the possibilities.Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the former Sweden megastar, was asked on Fox’s postgame show Friday after the U.S.’s 2-0 win over Australia whether the co-hosts could win the World Cup. His one-word answer: “Yes.” And Chris Richards, the American defender, doesn’t mind hearing that. “I don’t think it’s ridiculous to say that we want to win it,” Richards said. “We want to lift a trophy by the end of this.” No one is saying that will happen. No one is even saying it’s likely to happen. The U.S. has beaten Paraguay and Australia — two solid wins, two comprehensive wins and two very different wins. That said, there is a very, very long way to go. But here is what the U.S. has done: It has shown that it can play creatively and slickly and also shown it can play gritty and fierce. The U.S. has shown it can win — and control a game — without its star, Christian Pulisic, who sat out the second half against Paraguay and the whole game against Australia because of an injured calf. The USMNT has shown that it can enable and empower a true striker, Folarin Balogun, who has scored two goals and forced a third via an own goal. The U.S. has shown it can respond to home crowds like it has never seen before. There is a history to host countries making deep runs at World Cups — South Korea in the semifinals in 2002 or Russia in the quarterfinals in 2018, among others — and after the first two matches, it doesn’t feel absurd to imagine the American energy carrying the U.S. even further.

“There’s been friendlies that we’ve played [at home] where we’ve been outnumbered,” Tyler Adams said. “To have a whole nation behind you — that’s something so special.” Tim Ream, the veteran defender and captain, broke down in tears as the team huddled on the field after Friday’s win. Ream wasn’t sure why he was weeping, but something — the scene, the emotion, the possibilities of what might lie ahead — broke his typical stoicism. “I’ve told these guys that this is the most fun, special, enjoyable group that I’ve been a part of,” he said afterward. “There’s something about this one that just feels different.” We don’t know if, in the end, it will be different. There are so many ways it could go wrong, and U.S. fans surely have them all on the tips of their tongues. It’s natural. It’s how it has always been. Maybe Pulisic won’t get better or maybe someone else will get hurt or maybe a referee decision goes against the U.S. or maybe a bad day comes and another tournament ends with a whimper against a team that feels as if it could have been beaten. Maybe that is, in fact, how this all goes. But if nothing else, these two games are license to let go of the distrust. Of the incredulity. Of the doubt. It’s OK to loosen the grip on “just being realistic” and consider that “realistic” might finally mean something else. Balogun is electric. Richards, Alex Freeman and Ream are stout. Sergiño Dest seems to have fire in every step. Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman are connected. Pulisic never looked better before he had to step aside and doesn’t need to rush back if he’s not ready. Adams, understandably, didn’t want to think about winning this tournament but was adamant that “the biggest goal in this whole thing” is to change the way American fans think about their national team. To change the way that they believe. “I just want every game to matter to the common spectator,” he said. “I know we have the possibility to do that.”

The U.S. does. Minutes after the final whistle Friday, the players gathered on the field and joined with the fans, who were standing and stomping and singing, “Oh, we’re halfway there / Oh-oh! Livin’ on a prayer” as the Bon Jovi anthem rang out in the afternoon. There was passion. There was wonder. There was, in a way not quite like any other time, belief. Halfway there? Maybe not even.

Calf muscle injuries like Christian Pulisic’s can be complicated. These experts explain why

Pulisic came off at half-time of the first U.S. game and missed the second one

Pulisic came off at half-time of the first U.S. game and missed the second one (Photo: John Dorton/USSF/Getty Images)

By Sarah ShephardJune 23, 2026 3:15 pm EDT The Athletic

Calf muscles have become a big talking point of this World Cup — with particular attention given to the left calf muscle belonging to Christian Pulisic. The 27-year-old forward was substituted at half time of the United States’ opening game of the tournament against Paraguay and, after the game (a 4-1 victory), head coach Mauricio Pochettino told reporters the substitution was largely precautionary after Pulisic “got a kick in the calf” and started to feel “tight”.

“We hope that it’s not a big issue and he can be ready for the next one,” he said.

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But Pulisic was not on the pitch for the U.S.’s second group game against Australia on Friday. However, Pochettino offered some optimistic words about his star player’s recovery: “The feelings are good. Hope that it is as soon as possible that he can be ready to be selected again and to be part of the team.”

Only on Monday did he return to training with the full squad after a period of being limited to gym workouts, resistance training and light ball work, with the next U.S. game against Turkey on Thursday.

Christian Pulisic returns to USMNT training

Tom Bogert

Pulisic is not the only player to be troubled by a calf injury. Neymar is yet to appear for Brazil due to an issue with his right leg, while England defender Tino Livramento had to leave the World Cup after failing to recover from his own calf issue.To explain why calf issues can be so problematic, The Athletic consulted physiotherapist Helen van Kempen, who has worked in elite sport for the past 10 years, including with English rugby club Wasps, Welsh Lacrosse and most recently British Athletics, before founding her own clinic, Movement Performance Physiotherapy. And Dominic Rae, a Sports Medicine and Performance Specialist who is currently Head of Sports Medicine at Ten Percent Club.


How important is the calf muscle in elite soccer?

“The calf complex is more complicated and important than many realize,” says Rae. “And one of the most overlooked complexes when we talk about sports performance. The complex is made up of three muscles: the gastrocnemius, the soleus, and the plantaris, with force absorption and transfer through the Achilles tendon.“The muscle complex is made more complicated by intramuscular tendons (aponeurosis) that act like an internal scaffold for the muscle fibers.“When we sprint, jump, land, change direction, accelerate, decelerate, the foot is the first point of contact, so the Achilles and the calf complex very quickly become major force absorbers or producers in these movements, with up to 12 times bodyweight of force going through the complex. With any breakdown in this complex, that force has to transfer higher up the chain, leading to both increased injury risk and reduced ability to perform.”


⁠What types of calf injuries do soccer players typically sustain?

“Any of the three muscles in the calf complex can sustain tears, which can range from small myofascial injuries to full ruptures of fibers,” says Rae. “The tendons that attach the muscles to their boney attachments, or the aponeurosis (intramuscular tendons), can also both sustain tears, again, ranging from small tears to complete ruptures.”Interestingly in the calf, and most often with the soleus, injuries become symptomatic slowly, rather than sudden big “snaps”.“The soleus is made up more of slow-twitch muscle fibers than the gastrocnemius, which is your running-fast muscle in the calf,” explains Van Kempen. “So that’s the muscle that’s ‘on’ all day long. They’re your postural muscles, but especially for a soccer game that’s 90 minutes long, you need a lot of slow twitch muscle fibers, which are fatigue-resistant, so that they work hard throughout the game.

The trailblazing USMNT talisman carrying the weight of a nation on his shoulders.Read full profile ›

Photo of Christian Pulisic

“A player coming back from that needs to really make sure that the capacity of that muscle is back again, otherwise you can fatigue towards the end of the game.”If the strain is limited to the muscle belly, that’s a quicker recovery time than if it’s extended into the central tendon that runs through the muscle of your soleus and gastrocnemius.“If the muscle strain has gone in towards those, that can take a lot longer to recover from” says Van Kempen. “You can get a grade 1 muscle strain, which is just the muscle belly, and a few fibers disturbed, that’s a 10 day injury and you’ll be back playing.“If you do have a significant amount of muscle fibers strained and that extends into your aponeurosis or your tendon, that can be a three month injury. We grade it 1 to grade 3 with grade 4 a complete rupture.”


⁠We know that Pulisic was kicked in the calf. What impact could that have on the muscle?

“A kick to the calf (contusion) can in itself cause a tear to muscle fibers or fascia depending on the amount and angle of force” says Rae.“A contusion can also cause a sudden increase in blood flow/bleeding to the area. This can range from small with minimal swelling, to a full intramuscular hematoma. Aside from the obvious pain and stiffness, this increased blood and swelling in the area causes significant muscle inhibition to not just one isolated muscle, but potentially the entire complex. If we consider that the complex may take up to 12 times bodyweight in some actions, any muscular inhibition can cause a large risk of secondary injury, and a large reduction in physical performance.”“It’s likely he’s got a bruise / hematoma in the muscle,” says Van Kempen. “So inflammation and bleeding inhibits the muscles around there, but as long as it was compressed well and they’ve managed to stint that bleeding and that’s gone away, that should be OK, but depending on how hard he got kicked, if there’s still an element of that hematoma left in the next game he’s playing it can have an effect on the performance of the calf.

Pulisic trains with a compression bandage on his left calf last weekPhoto: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

“If it’s gone into his soleus or gastrocnemius, that will have an impact on his ability to absorb load on that leg and produce force from that leg — so how fast he can run and how long he’s able to sustain that that speed as well.”

“Another potential outcome of a direct blow, is direct impact on a nerve,” says Rae. “This can give a sudden sharp pain, but also reduced signal to muscle innervations, and in turn reduced ability for the muscle to function. Sometimes this subsides instantly, but in some cases, there is a prolonged period of muscle inhibition.”


⁠What is the recovery process like for an injury like that?

“The recovery for a contusion varies depending on the extent of the bleeding,” says Rae. “But a general rule is to treat the bleeding via elevation and compression while cryotherapy can be used for some vasoconstriction and pain management.”

The first priority is protection, says Van Kempen: “You compress that injury to reduce the amount of bleeding into the muscle as much as possible. It’s the familiar route of RICE: rest, ice, compress, elevate. They’ll try and start that immediately and have him doing very little, so that he can get back a lot quicker.”

Pulisic has largely been doing rehab work away from team-matesJamie Squire/Getty Images

“Gentle and progressive walking and muscle specific movements will also help to ensure a hematoma can be removed,” says Rae. “Once bleeding has stopped, manual therapy based treatment can speed up the removal of swelling, and gradual strength exposure, and electro-muscular stimulation can help to ensure normal function of the muscle.”

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The length of time out depends on how much muscle fiber has been disrupted, says Van Kempen: “Timescales can vary significantly between a minute muscle strain and a significant injury. If it’s only a small muscle strain then building up the strength and capacity of the muscle again will happen very quickly. If it’s a large one, that can be a very lengthy three month rehab.”


⁠Is it an issue that is likely/possible to return once you’ve had it once?

“If the return to play from a contusion is too soon, it is common for swelling or bleeding to re-occur, and stiffness to worsen,” says Rae. “In many cases, this does not impact function during the game (when the player is warm), but following the match can lead to worse symptoms and further issues.”

“Whenever you strain a muscle, you are always more likely to injure that again,” says Van Kempen. “If you break a bone it builds back stronger, but whenever you damage soft tissue, there’s always a slight vulnerability to it. If it’s extended into the tendon, then there’s a higher chance of re-injury.

“But the better the rehab, the less likely you’ll have a recurrence.”

“In the cases of muscle or tendon tears, the risk of re-injury depends on many factors such as age of the player, how many previous injuries (and if in the same location-therefore compromising collagen/tissue quality), and the specific location within the calf complex,” says Rae.

“Intramuscular tendons carry higher re-injury rates, with myofascial injuries carrying lower re-injury rates. The specific mechanics of the athletes also play a huge part. For example, if the athlete runs in a specific way, predominantly loading a specific area of the calf, this will increase the risk of re-injury of this area, compared to a region that is exposed to less load.”

Sarah Shephard spent 10 years at Sport magazine before becoming Deputy Head of Content at The Coaches’ Voice. She has also written for publications such as The Times, The Guardian and The Sunday Times Magazine, among others.

What Is Mauricio Pochettino wearing? The story behind his lucky World Cup outfit

Mauricio Pochettino, Head Coach of the United States, wearing his navy Hugo Boss overshirt, flanked by two assistants

Mauricio Pochettino touchline shirt has attracted attention Jamie Squire/Getty Images

By Asli Pelit

June 23, 2026 Updated 3:16 pm EDT Wait no more, Wayne Rooney.

Mauricio Pochettino is probably too busy at the moment to return your calls, but a quick internet search has answered the former Manchester United and England forward’s burning question about the U.S. men’s national team coach’s signature navy overshirt and matching pants: it’s Hugo Boss.Rooney is hardly the only one who has taken notice of the Argentine’s touchline wardrobe. The navy lightweight wool overshirt with matching wide-leg trousers, crisp white T-shirt and white Nike sneakers are quickly becoming part of the USMNT coach’s World Cup identity. The look, according to a U.S. soccer spokesperson, is entirely Pochettino’s own choice.  Hugo Boss told The Athletic in an email that they had made two dedicated versions of the navy lightweight virgin-wool ensemble, customized with the USSF badge, for Pochettino for the tournament.   Fortunately for everyone involved, the outfit is washable. If the U.S. keeps winning, Pochettino does not have to choose between hygiene and good luck. U.S. Soccer staff can simply keep his matchday look fresh and clean. The 54-year-old has worn the same outfit for both of the USMNT’s group-stage victories, the 4-1 rout of Paraguay in the opener and the 2-0 win over Australia that secured a place in the Round of 32 with a match to spare. 

Mauricio Pochettino on the touchline against AustraliaJamie Squire/Getty Images

Two games, two wins, one outfit. Superstition and soccer have always gone hand in hand. If the U.S. keeps winning and gets past Turkey on Thursday, Pochettino’s new signature ensemble may soon take on a life of its own.

“He will be wearing the same outfit for the third match,” said a spokesperson for U.S. soccer. “Why? He referenced the philosophy of Crash Davis: never mess with a winning streak.”

That is not  out of character.

Pochettino has long been one of soccer’s more fashion-conscious managers. But if his years at Tottenham Hotspur taught him anything, it was that style and superstition are not mutually exclusive.

Long before he arrived on the U.S. touchline, he had already produced one of the more memorable managerial fashion moments of the modern era. In August 2018, as his Tottenham side walked into Old Trafford and dismantled Manchester United 3-0, the Argentine emerged wearing a navy-on-navy tailored look that became almost as talked about as the result itself.

Mauricio Pochettino has a track record of making striking style choicesMichael Regan/Getty Images

“The suit is maybe helping,” Pochettino told Sky Sports after his side’s victory over Manchester United. “With suit or tracksuit, I look good! I am handsome! Sunday I am going to use the suit again, but maybe with a different colour shirt.”  The following week, he abandoned the navy-on-navy formula and opted for a white shirt away at Watford. Spurs lost 2-1.Coincidence? Almost certainly. The kind of thing a football manager remembers forever? Absolutely.So perhaps it is no surprise that Pochettino has worn the same outfit for both of the United States’ World Cup victories. Eight years later, for a manager who appreciates good tailoring and understands the irrational logic of the game, there is little reason to abandon a look that keeps producing wins. 

Pochettino Exclusive USMNT Interview

And superstition runs deep inside U.S. Soccer. Just ask Emma Hayes.

The USWNT coach began wearing a Hello Kitty cap during her side’s friendly against Japan in Commerce City, Colorado in April. As the wins piled up, what started as an accessory she picked as a fan has become a good-luck charm, the kind of object that acquires near-mythical status in sports when results keep going your way.Pochettino chooses what he wants to wear at games, a U.S. Soccer confirmed, and the evolution of his fashion choices is hard to miss. The navy ensemble, paired with a crisp white T-shirt and white Nike sneakers, could one day be etched into USMNT lore as the look Pochettino wore when the team finally delivered the success its supporters had waited decades to see.In a sport built on rituals, lucky charms and unwritten rules, a simple outfit can quickly become something more. Another victory against Turkey, and Pochettino’s cobalt-blue fit may evolve from a wardrobe choice into a World Cup superstition, and one of the defining images of this U.S. run.Rooney cannot get the Argentine coach’s full head of hair, but he sure can emulate his style as versions of the collection — without the embroidered U.S. crest — will be available at stores across the United States and Europe.

3/16/26 Champions League 16 Wrap-up Tues/Wed, US Jersey Drops, NWSL returns with a bang, Madrid Derby Sun, Indy 11 starts Tues, Home Opener Sat 7 pm vs Detroit City


Champions League Sweet 16 2nd leg Tues/Wed on Para+ & CBSSN

Champions League Sweet 16 action is here with some powerhouse games on hand in defending Champs PSG facing World Club Champ Chelsea up 5-2 head to London Tues, while powerhouses Real Madrid & Man City will once host Madrid down 3-0 Tues – sound familianr? A couple of American’s are still alive as Atletico’s Johnny Cardosa willtravel to Tottenham on Wed 4 pm on Para+ up 5-2, while Yanus Musah & the only Italian side left Atalanta will travel to Bayern Munich down 6-1 at 4 pm on CBSSN & Para where an American Born GK just 16 ____ might have to play for the Germans. Wed gives us Bayer Leverkusen and American Midfielder Malik Tillman hosting Arsenal at 1:45 pm on Para+.

Last 16 fixtures in full.

PSG 5 vs Chelsea 2
Galatasaray 1 vs Liverpool 0
Real Madrid 3 vs Man City 0
Atalanta 1 vs Bayern Munich 6
Barcelona 1 vs Newcastle 1
Bodo/Glimt 3 vs Sporting 0
Leverkusen 1 vs Arsenal 1
Atletico MAdrid 5 vs Tottenham 2


US Officially Releases New Jersey Look

If you read this blog – I released this a month ago -but its official now — Where’s Waldo Stripes is Back for the World Cup

Indy 11 Open Season Sat night at the Mike – US Open Cup on Tues, 8 pm Para+

Indy Eleven begins Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play on Tuesday, March 17 at 8 p.m. vs. Des Moines Menace indoors at the Community Health Network Events Center on the Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus. The Boys in Blue open their regular-season home schedule at Carroll Stadium on Sat. Mar. 21 vs. Eastern Conference rival Detroit City FC.  Ticket options available are Season Tickets, Flex Mini Plans, and Home Opener Packs. Season Ticket Benefits (starting at $13.50 per game) include Season Parking Pass, unlimited ticket exchanges, and a 20% discount on all Indy Eleven merchandise.  Flex Mini Plans include vouchers to be redeemed for any 2026 regular season home match. The 2026 Home Opener Pack includes two tickets to the home opener, two flex tickets to be redeemed to any 2026 home match, two Indy Eleven pennants, two posters, and access for two to a post-match autograph session for just $44. Carmel native and former Carmel Dad’s Club player and 2025 USL Championship MVP and Prinx Playoff MVP GK Eric Dick will start in the goal this season for Indy after winning the Cup with Pittsburg last season.

The 2026 Season Opens Saturday night at 7 pm at the Mike vs Detroit City – Special Tix Prices Available

NWSL Opening Weekend to Remember

Collectively, players scored 19 goals across the eight matches. All but the final match of the weekend between Angel City and Chicago Stars was decided by a single goal. While some teams welcomed back familiar faces, others embraced their new sparks. The league made history with 129,202 fans in attendance across eight matches, with an average of 16,150 per match. You can read an in-depth look at the weekend here.

 Sophia Wilson’s return to the soccer field after more than a year away, Olivia Moultrie continuing to establish herself as a game changer and the Portland Thorns getting their playoff revenge on the Spirit; Seattle Reign also avenging their playoff loss in Orlando in the same place that their 2025 season came to an end; Banda getting back to her epic scoring ways;  conversely, seeing Kennedy Fuller and Angel City completely dominate Chicago (sorry Alyssa Naeher, but what were you doing?). Dash forward Makenzy Robbe, Reign forward Brittany Ratcliffe, Angel City midfielder Ary Borges and Bay FC’s Alex Pfeiffer scoring for their new teams.  Croix Bethune scoring for her new club, Kansas City Current, after her $1 million transfer, and on her birthday no less;  Canadian players Janine Sonis and Bianca St-Georges receiving the first red cards in Denver Summit and Boston Legacy’s history.  The very special return of Savy King to the NWSL after her cardiac incident last May. Seeing a record-breaking crowd of 30,000+ watch professional soccer return to Boston with the debut of the Legacy, knowing Denver has sold more than 50,000+ for their home opener on March 28.  bonus) Rodman running herself right out of her cleat


Man it was Great being back on the soccer fields this weekend doing a little reffing at Grand Park

Always a blast reffing with Mike A and Dan D at the Event Center Friday Night
It was actually Warm Enough Sunday afternoon to go shorts – with Jakob and Ricardo in the Championship Game


TV Schedule – Games on TV



Tues, March 17
1:45 pm CBSSN, PAra+, Uni Sporting CP vs Bodo/Glint
4 pm Para+ Man City vs Real Madrid
4 pm Para+ Chelsea
vs PSG
4 pm Para+  Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen (Tillman)
8 pm CBS Galazom PAra+ Indy 11 vs Des Moines Menace
11 pm FS1 Monterey vs Cruz azul CCC
Wed, March 18
1:45 pm Para+ Barcelona vs Newcastle United
4 pm PAra, CBSSN Bayern Munich ( ) vs Atalanta (Musah) vs
4 pm Para+ Atletico Madrid (Johnny) vs Tottenham
4 pm Para+ Liverpool vs Galatasaray
7 pm FS2  Inter Miami 0 vs Nashville 0 CC Cup
9 pm FS1 Club America vs Philly Union CCC
11 pm FS2 Toluca San Diego vs Cup
11 pm FS1 Seattle Sounders 4 vs Vancouver 0 CCup
Thurs, March 18
1:45 pm Para+ Nottingham Forest vs Midtylland
1:45 pm Para+ Crystal Palace (Richards) vs AEK Lanarca
4 pm Para+, CBSSN Lille vs Aston Villa
9 pm FS1 Cincy vs Tigres UNAL CUP
Fri, March 19
4 pm USA Bournemouth vs Man United
8 pm Victory+ Racing Louisville vs Washington Spirit (Rodman) NWSL
10 pm Amazon Prime Portland Thorns (Sophia Smith) @ Seattle Reign
Sat Mar 20
8:30 am USA Brighton vs Liverpool
10:30 am ESPN+ Heidenheim vs Bayer Leverkusen (Tillman)
11 am USA Fulham (Jedi) vs Burnley
1 pm PAra+ AC Milan (Pulisic) vs Torino
1 pm Apple free Toronto FC vs Columbus Crew MLS
1:30 pm USA Everton vs Chelsea
3:45 pm Para+ Juventus (McKennie) vs Sassuolo
4 pm Ion Houston Dash vs Boston Legacy NWSL
4 pm USA Leeds United (Aaronson) vs Brentford
6:15 pm FS1 Nashville FC vs Orlando City
6:30 pm Ion NY/NJ Gothem FC vs NC Courage NWSL
8:30 pm Apple St Louis City vs New England
8:45 pm FOX Austin FC vs LAFC
8:35 pm ION Bay FC vs Angel City NWSL
Sun Mar 21
8 am USA Newcastle United vs Sunderland
8 am ESPN+ Barcelona vs Rayo Vallencano
10:!5 am USA Tottenham vs Nottingham Forest
12:30 pm Para+ ARSENAL vs MAN CITY CUP
1 pm Apple Free NYCFC vs Miami (Messi)
1 pm Apple Cincy vs Montreal
2:30 pm FOX Minn United vs Seattle Sounders
4 pm ESPND, ESPN+ REAL MADRID vs ATLETICO MADRID
4:45 pm FOX Portland Timbers vs LA Galaxy
7 pm Victory+ Utah Royals vs San Diego Wave NWSL

Sat, Mar 28
3:30 pm TNT, HBO, Peacock USA Men vs Belgium
Tues, Mar 31
7 pm TNT, HBO, Peacock USA Men vs Portugal
Sun, May 31
3:30 pm TNT, HBO, Peacock USA Men vs Senegal
Fri. Apr. 17, 7:30 pm | IU vs. Notre Dame GRAND PARK
Sat. Apr. 18, 6:00 pm | Saint Louis vs. Xavier GRAND PARK

Sat, June 6
2:30 pm TNT, HBO, Peacock USA Men vs Germany in Chicago
Sat, June 12 WORLD CUP
9 pm Fox, Tele, Peacock USA Men vs Paraguay World Cup
NWSL Schedule

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USMNT midweek viewing guide: Staying alive

Follow along with all the USMNT action this week.

by Justin Moran Mar 16, 2026, 12:59 PM EDT Stars & STripes

Atalanta BC v FC Bayern München - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg

BERGAMO, ITALY – MARCH 10: Michael Olise of FC Bayern Muenchen competes for the ball with Yunus Musah of Atalanta BC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Atalanta BC and FC Bayern München at Stadio di Bergamo on March 10, 2026 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Luca Amedeo Bizzarri/Getty Images)Getty Images

Midweek action is here. All kickoff times are in EST. Let’s get into it!

Monday

  • Portsmouth vs Derby, 4p on Paramount+: Patrick Agyemang and Derby County visit Portsmouth in the EFL Championship.

Also in action:

  • Albacete vs Las Palmas, 3:30p: Jonathan Gómez and Albacete visit Las Palmas in La Liga 2.
  • Racing Club vs Estudiantes de Río Cuarto, 7p on Fanatiz: Matko Miljevic and Racing Club go on the road in Argentina’s Liga Profesional.

Tuesday

  • Arsenal vs Leverkusen, 4p on Paramount+, ViX: Malik Tillman, Monty Culbreath, and Bayer Leverkusen are even 1-1 with Arsenal after the home leg in Champions League. They will need to win at the Emirates to advance.

Also in action:

  • Mantova vs Cesena, 3p: Jonathan Klinsmann and Cesena visit Mantova in Serie B.
  • Venezia vs Padova, 3p on DCTV: Gianluca Busio and Venezia host Padova in Serie B.
  • Alajuelense vs LAFC, 9p on FS1, TUDN, Fubo, ViX: Timothy Tillman and LAFC only managed a 1-1 draw in the first leg at home, so they’ll need to win in Costa Rica to advance in Concacaf Champions Cup.

Wednesday

  • Bayern Munich vs Atalanta, 4p on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, Fubo, ViX: Yunus Musah and Atalanta trail Bayern 1-6 after getting demolished at home in the first leg of this Champions League matchup.
  • Tottenham vs Atlético Madrid, 4p on Paramount+, DAZN: Johnny Cardoso and Atléti are up 5-2 on Spurs as they go into the away leg in Champions League.

You know that expression “a picture is worth a thousand words”? That started because of Brandi Chastain. Probably. You know the picture I’m talking about. She had just won the ’99 World Cup with a penalty kick, and in a moment of unfiltered elation fell to her knees, ripped her shirt off, and screamed with a joy most of us can only hope to one day feel. Today, it’s universally regarded as a symbol of women’s strength, and fearlessness, and ability. And while some saw it that way at the time… many, very loud people, did not. Let’s view this photo, and Chastain herself, through the prism.

View MoreView Less


Also in action:

  • Ried vs LASK Linz, 1p: George Bello and LASK are on the road in a cup semifinal in Austria.
  • Inter Miami vs Nashville SC, 7p on FS1, TUDN, UniMás, Fubo, ViX, Univision NOW: Matthew Corcoran, Thomas Williams, Reed Baker-Whiting, and Nashville are still even 0-0 with Noah Allen, Ian Fray, and Miami in this Concacaf Champions Cup showdown.
  • Club América vs Philadelphia Union, 9p on FS1, TUDN, Fubo, UniMás, ViX, Univision NOW: Alex Zendejas and América are up 1-0 over Quinn Sullivan, Frankie Westfield, Cavan Sullivan, and the Union in this Concacaf Champions Cup clash.
  • Seattle Sounders vs Vancouver Whitecaps, 11p on FS1, Fubo, ViX: Jordan Morris, Cristian Roldan, Jesús Ferreira, Jackson Ragen, and the Sounders are up 3-0 over Sebastian Berhalter, Brian White, and the ’Caps in this Concacaf Champions Cup matchup.
  • Toluca vs San Diego FC, 11p on FS2, TUDN, Fubo, ViX: Luca Bombino, Pedro Soma, Duran Ferree, and San Diego hold a 3-2 lead over Toluca going into the Concacaf Champions Cup second leg.

Thursday

  • Lyon vs Celta Vigo, 1:45p on Paramount+, DAZN: Tanner Tessmann and Lyon are in a strong position, tied 1-1 going into the second leg at home in this Europa League fixture.
  • AEK Larnaca vs Crystal Palace, 1:45p on Paramount+, ViX: Chris Richards and Palace didn’t manage a goal at home in Conference League, leaving it 0-0 as they travel to Cyprus for the second leg.

Also in action:

  • Mainz vs Sigma Olomouc, 1:45p on Paramount+, ViX: Lennard Maloney and Mainz are still at 0-0 in their Conference League tie with Sigma Olomouc.
  • Real Betis vs Panathinaikos, 4p on Paramount+, DAZN: Erik Palmer-Brown and Panathinaikos hold a thin 1-0 lead over Betis going into the Europa League second leg on the road.
  • Mount Pleasant vs LA Galaxy, 7p on FS1, TUDN, Fubo, ViX: Edwin Cerrillo, Elijah Wynder, and the Galaxy are up 3-0 from the home leg in Concacaf Champions Cup.
  • Tigres vs FC Cincinnati, 9p on FS1, TUDN, Fubo, ViX: Miles Robinson, Roman Celentano, Matt Miazga, and Cincy are winning 3-0, and will advance in Concacaf Champions Cup unless they collapse in Monterrey.

Friday

  • Bournemouth vs Manchester United, 4p on USA, UNIVERSO: Tyler Adams is unlikely to play in this Premier League match after suffering an injury in last Friday’s training session.
  • Villarreal vs Real Sociedad, 4p on ESPN Select, ESPN Deportes, Fubo (free trial): Alex Freeman and Villarreal host Real Sociedad in La Liga.

Also in action:

  • RB Leipzig vs Hoffenheim, 3:30p on ESPN Select, Fubo: Cole Campbell played 45 minutes with Hoffenheim’s reserves on Sunday, so he may not be with the senior squad for this Bundesliga match.



Champions League

Dembélé: PSG won’t let up on Chelsea in 2nd leg
How Premier league sides can progress in Europe
Rüdiger says battling City’s Haaland ‘a pleasure’
Arteta: Dowman’s exuberance can inspire Arsenal
Rosenior: Chelsea undecided on huddle for PSG
Neto escapes punishment after ball-boy shove
Arteta: Dowman’s involvement depends on the game
UCL final tickets frozen at last year’s prices
Pep: City need ‘perfect game’ for Madrid miracle
Ancelotti: Vini Jr. ‘never failed’ in big games

Chelsea given fine, suspended transfer ban by PL

USA

Sources: Banks opts out of USMNT March camp
American Born Keeper Prescott, 16, could debut amid Bayern injury crisis
Transfer rumors, news: Man United eye move for USMNT’s Adams
U.S.’s Adams ready for WC after ‘seamless’ rehab
USMNT’s Sands out for season, major WC doubt
USMNT picks Irvine as World Cup training base
Socceroos compiling dossier on Poch, USMNT
U.S.’s Poch won’t rule out Madrid: ‘In due time’
Transfer rumors, news: Fulham eye USMNT striker Ricardo Pepi
Despite wingback depth, Dest injury threatens USMNT’s World Cup hopes
Adidas salutes USMNT’s 1994 World Cup run by dropping denim jersey

World

As fans turn on their club, time is running out for Liverpool to save their season
Iran team: No one can exclude us from World Cup


NWSL


Reffing

Referee involving himself in Chelsea team huddle was ridiculous
VAR review: Why Arsenal should have had a penalty vs. Everton

How to Become a Travel Ref 

Man it was cold this weekend for Sebastion’s (left) first ever game reffing !!
Man it was cold Reffing with Patricia and Isaac this weekend at Grand Park

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USMNT Player Tracker: Tessmann experiment, Balogun work pays off, and is Pulisic in need of a reset?

A designed image by The Athletic of Folarin Balogun and Tanner Tessmann

Folarin Balogun and Tanner Tessmann Valery Hache/AFP via Getty Images; Sebastien Bozon/AFP via Getty Images

By Greg O’Keeffe March 16, 2026 11:08 am EDT

Experimental positions, goal-scoring consistency and, perhaps, is it time for a reset? It was another busy weekend for Americans in Europe. Welcome to this week’s USMNT Player Tracker.


In France on Sunday, Lyon conducted an experiment which may have interesting implications for the USMNT. Tanner Tessmann, the 24-year-old midfielder, played at centre-back for the third time this season and produced another assured performance in a goalless draw at Le Havre. On each occasion the Alabama-native has been moved into the back-line by coach Paulo Fonseca, Lyon have kept a clean sheet. His flourishing comfort in the role could give Mauricio Pochettino pause for thought. Is it too late now, with the World Cup only three months away, for the national team to conduct their own experiment given their defence has been relatively settled? Only Pochettino can answer that, but Tessmann’s growing versatility will do his own cause for a place on the roster no harm. And given there are forthcoming friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, Tessmann’s performance on Sunday might be perfectly timed to allow the USMNT manager to at least try it.

Tanner Tessmann rues a missed opportunity while playing for Lyon

Tanner Tessmann has played more recently as a centre-half for LyonOlivier Chassignole/AFP via Getty Images

At 6ft 2in (188cm), the former Venezia player has the physical stature to play as a centre-back, and his eye for a progressive pass may offer the USMNT another dimension to their defence as they seek to break opposition pressing.

Against Le Havre, Tessmann was the most accurate passer of any of the starting Lyon team at 92 per cent accuracy, according Opta, and he made more passes into the final third (17) than any other player on the pitch. He also made more ball recoveries (eight) of any defender on either team.

Tessmann is a defensive midfielder with growing potential, a player who already boasts top-level experience in the Champions League and Ligue 1. Now he has demonstrated the ability to influence games from the back, having previously played at centre-back in a top-flight win over Nantes and a 6-0 thrashing of Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League.

His latest cameo in defence may yet tempt Pochettino to try him there. He may have far more experienced and tested options in Chris Richards, Auston Trusty and Tim Ream, but in tournament football, multi-positional players are a compelling option.

Tessmann scored the last goal of the USMNT’s last impressive game, that 5-1 win against Uruguay in November, from midfield. His credentials in the middle of the park are still strong.His credentials in the middle of defence, though, are intriguing.


Balogun timing his scoring run

Another week, another positive sign for Pochettino’s front line.

Folarin Balogun now has six goals in six games for Monaco. His response to an injury-hit and underwhelming last season, when he managed only four goals in 13 Ligue 1 games, has so far been emphatic. His timing might be in when it comes to the World Cup, too.

Balogun scored the first in a 2-0 Monaco win over Brest with a left-footed effort on 19 minutes on Saturday. His coach Sebastien Pocognoli credited Balogun’s streak to hard work on and off the field.

Folarin Balogun celebrates scoring against Brest

Folarin Balogun celebrates scoring against BrestValery Hache/AFP via Getty Images

“It is quite simply the fruit of his labour,” the Belgian said after the game. “He invests a tremendous amount of effort to achieve this level of consistency. His performance level also elevates the other players in the attacking third.

“Today, he is reaping the rewards of his efforts. He is an ambitious player, highly focused on his objectives.

“He knows that he still has plenty of opportunities to shine this season — and even beyond his time at AS Monaco, with his national team. His professionalism is exemplary.”


Pulisic reset?

It is getting to the point where the imminent international breaks might be helpful for Christian Pulisic to reset his club form.

It is not that the USMNT star is playing badly for Milan. He isn’t. It’s only that, after such a strong start to the season, his numbers have ground to a halt.

The 27-year-old has still not registered a goal or assist in Serie A in 2026, and that continued on Sunday as his side let slip a chance to make ground on table-topping rivals Inter by losing 1-0 at Lazio.

Christian Pulisic fires off a shot against Lazio

Christian Pulisic fires off a shot against LazioAlberto Pizzoli/AFP via Getty Images

Pulisic created two big chances, per Opta, but his partnership in attack with Rafael Leao failed to spark.

The American rarely fails to deliver for the national team. Maybe he could use the games against Belgium and Portugal to sharpen his attacking edge.


What’s coming up this week?

The second leg of the Champions League last 16 round beckons with some interesting U.S. sub-plots.

On Tuesday (4pm, Paramount +) Malik Tillman, fresh from helping Bayer Leverkusen to a 1-1 draw with table-topping Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga at the weekend, goes into his team’s finely-poised tie at Arsenal after they drew the first leg 1-1 in Germany.

Tillman missed a big chance against Bayern, but was back in the starting line-up — a sign he is getting over over the ankle problem he picked up against Mainz in February.

On Wednesday (4pm, Paramount +) Johnny Cardoso, an unused substitute in Atletico Madrid’s 1-0 win against Getafe in La Liga on Saturday, will hope to be involved for the Spaniards at struggling Tottenham Hotspur. Atletico lead 5-2 after the first leg in Madrid.

Finally, Yunus Musah did not feature for Atalanta in their draw with Inter on Saturday. But the midfielder may get the chance to assist his team’s daunting assignment in overhauling their first-leg 6-1 hammering by Bayern in Munich.

The hosts have some injury problems, particularly in goal where first-choice Manuel Neuer is out and there are concerns over the fitness of other senior shot-stoppers Sven Ulreich and Jonas Urbig. If none are passed fit it could mean an extraordinary senior debut for 16-year-old American goalkeeper Leonard Prescott, who was on the bench for the last two fixtures.

Prescott, who was born in New York, is eligible for both the USMNT and Germany, but appears to be leaning towards the country where he plays his football with six under-17 caps for Germany and three under-16 appearances.

He started at Union Berlin’s youth system before joining Bayern’s academy in 2023.

By Greg O’Keeffe

Senior Writer

Meet the NY-born teenage GK who could be thrust into Bayern’s Champions League spotlight

Bayern Munich GK Leonard Prescott making a save in pregame warmups

S. Mellar / FC Bayern / Getty Images

By Sebastian Stafford-Bloor

March 16, 2026Updated 5:30 pm EDT

A 16-year-old German-American goalkeeper could potentially find himself playing in the Champions League this week. Leonard Prescott, who was born in New York, but who has never made a senior appearance in his career, might be the beneficiary of unprecedented injury crisis at Bayern Munich that thrusts him into the limelight.

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Bayern’s first choice is legendary goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Now 39, Neuer suffered the latest in a succession of muscular injuries at the beginning of March and has not played since. Jonas Urbig is Bayern’s second choice — and most likely Neuer’s eventual successor — but he might be unavailable, too. While deputizing for Neuer in last week’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Atalanta, Urbig was involved in a collision at the end of the game. He missed this weekend’s 1-1 draw with Bayer Leverkusen with a suspected concussion.

And Urbig’s deputy, Sven Ulreich, is also unavailable. Ulreich, 37, has been at Bayern for 11 years, barring one season spent at Hamburg, and was Neuer’s long-term backup prior to Urbig’s arrival in 2025.

He was called into action for the game at the BayArena and, despite not having played a competitive minute since September 2024, performed extremely well, making a couple of crucial saves. But the cost of that appearance was a torn adductor muscle, which Bayern estimate will keep Ulreich sidelined for the next six weeks.

Bayern are due to face Atalanta again on Wednesday night, carrying a 6-1 aggregate lead from the first leg into a game carries little jeopardy; barring anything except a historic collapse, Bayern are assured of a place in the Champions League quarterfinal.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUETop CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Stories

Bundesliga Briefing: Top tifos, Undav’s World Cup chance, Dingert admits error and Ulreich on the night

What is the latest on Man City’s 115 charges and football’s other outstanding cases?

Inside Real Madrid: Can Alvaro Arbeloa win something with kids?

Yet they do still need a goalkeeper, which leaves head coach Vincent Kompany scrambling for options. Bayern have a second team, a side built from U-19 players and amateur veterans, that competes at Regionalliga level —the fourth tier of German football — but its first-choice goalkeeper Leon Klanac, 19, is, remarkably, also injured. He has a hamstring problem and will not be fit in time for Wednesday.

That leaves 19-year-old Jannis Bartl, Klanac’s backup, as an option, or Prescott, who was on the substitutes’ bench for Bayern’s Bundesliga game against Leverkusen on Saturday. He joined Bayern from Union Berlin in 2023, having grown up in the German capital, and, still 16, has never made a senior appearance anywhere, even for Bayern II.

He is extremely well regarded by the club, though, and seen as the most talented goalkeeping prospect within the youth campus. Prescott has represented Germany’s U-17 team internationally, and has also played for Bayern’s U-19 team at UEFA Youth level.

is German and father is American, were to play on Wednesday, he would break a record. The youngest starting goalkeeper in Bayern’s history so far is Sven Scheuer, who made his debut at 18 years and 237 days back in 1989, before embarking on a nomadic career in Turkey and Austria (and growing an outstandingly 1990s hairstyle).

If Prescott is to break his record, he will have to navigate some red tape. The Youth Employment Protection Act prevents under-18s from working after 8 p.m. Athletes do enjoy an exemption from that under special circumstances, but only up to 11 p.m.

That means that with the game due to kick off at 9 p.m. CEST, he would need further dispensation to take part in extra-time and penalties, were they to take place.

The chances of that are extremely slim, with Bayern are expected to cruise through. And the chances of Prescott taking part at all, beyond the substitutes’ bench, may also be diminishing. On Monday, Urbig took part in some aspects of first-team training, with Bayern expected to make a decision about his involvement closer to game time.Prescott is seen as a great prospect. Well-built at 6-foot-4 (1.96m), technical, modern and brave, he seems likely to have a future in the professional game. It’s just that nobody expected that moment to arrive this week.

If it was to happen, it would also present a moment of symmetry. Prescott was once a ballboy at Allianz Arena. In March 2024, he was working behind Neuer’s goal when Bayern played Lazio in the Champions League and was pictured celebrating with him at full time. Almost exactly two years later, he could be about to replace him.

Champions League 2025-26 Projections: Who will lift the trophy in Budapest on May 30?

Design: The Athletic; Photo: Getty Images

By The Athletic UK Staff

March 12, 2026

Which club will win the 2025-26 Champions League?

Paris Saint-Germain are the holders after their stunning 5-0 win against Inter in last season’s final, the biggest margin of victory in the competition’s history. The Premier League, meanwhile, has six entrants in this season’s edition, and several of those will fancy their chances of lifting the trophy in Budapest on May 30, 2026.

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Throughout the season, we will publish projections — powered by Opta data — to show how teams are expected to perform. These will update after each matchday, so check in each time to see how the latest results have impacted your team’s chances.

Last updated March 12, 2026 at 9:20 AM

Before round of 16 second leg

The state of play after the Round of 16 first leg as teams aim to win the 2025-26 Champions League in BudapestCHANGE PROJECTIONS:Before round of 16 2nd leg (Mar. 17-18)Before K.O. playoff 1st leg (Feb. 17-18)Before Matchday 8 (Jan. 28)Before Matchday 7 (Jan. 20-21)Before Matchday 6 (Dec. 9-10)Before Matchday 5 (Nov. 25-26)Before Matchday 4 (Nov. 4-5)Before Matchday 3 (Oct. 21-22)Before Matchday 2 (Sept. 30-Oct. 1)Before Matchday 1 (Sept. 16-18)

RK.TEAM
#1Arsenal77%65%46%28%
#2Bayern Munich>99%61%41%22%
#3Barcelona68%44%22%11%
#4Paris Saint-Germain93%56%23%10%
#5Real Madrid84%32%17%8%
#6Atletico Madrid97%39%14%6%
#7Liverpool51%26%10%5%
T8Newcastle United32%16%6%2%
T8Manchester City16%7%4%2%
T8Bodø / Glimt87%19%6%2%
T8Bayer Leverkusen23%12%5%2%
T12Galatasaray49%14%3%<1%
T12Chelsea7%4%2%<1%
T12Sporting CP13%4%1%<1%
T12Tottenham Hotspur3%<1%<1%<1%
T12Atalanta<1%<1%<1%<1%
Internazionale
Juventus
Borussia Dortmund
Olympiakos Piraeus
Club Bruges
Monaco
Qarabağ
Benfica
Olympique Marseille
Pafos
Union Saint-Gilloise
PSV
Athletic Club
Napoli
København
Ajax
Eintracht Frankfurt
Slavia Praha
Villarreal
Kairat