In this week's episode of the "Insert Name" FC Podcast, Hector Flores and Edward Robles dive into the viral FS1 debate on the "26 Most Influential Players of the 2026 World Cup"—and trust us, the list has to be heard to be believed. The hosts break down the hilariously questionable rankings, call out the questionable “expertise” of the panel that made the list, and ask: what even is an “influential” player?

Hector Flores also unveils his projected 26-man USMNT roster for 2026, with Edward Robles giving his takes—did anyone get snubbed? Who actually makes a difference for the US, and is Christian Pulisic really all that? Plus, they hit on Players of the Week, games to watch across the globe, and take a nostalgia trip with the "Give and Go" soccer card game to reminisce about their favorite boots.

This episode is packed with banter, disbelief, and a celebration of the football culture that brings us all together—even when the pundits get it hilariously wrong. Whether you love deep dives, passionate rants, or just need a laugh about soccer “hot takes,” you’ll want to hit play!

Topics covered:

• FS1’s viral (and bizarre) “26 Most Influential Players” list

• The state of American soccer punditry

• Projecting the 2026 USMNT World Cup roster

• Players of the Week and must-watch games

• Favorite soccer cleats and stories from the pitch

Available now on all major podcast platforms, Belly Up Sports YouTube, and wherever you get your soccer fix.

Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as Hector Flores leads a heated, honest breakdown of the U.S. Men's National Team’s recent friendlies—losses to Belgium and Portugal—and hands out a no-punches-pulled report card alongside guest co-host Kelcey Coyne. From issues of team identity and underwhelming performances to standout players and what’s really plaguing American soccer, nothing is off-limits. The duo debates if Christian Pulisic still deserves his star status, why Weston McKennie might be the team’s true talisman, and if the so-called ‘golden generation’ is really all that golden after all.

Plus: Moussa Seck joins to give the international perspective on U.S. soccer culture, and dives into the biggest storylines from the final round of World Cup qualifiers. Who’s in, who’s out, and which nations are primed to be fan favorites (and giant killers) on North American soil in 2026? The episode wraps up with Players of the Week, can’t-miss matches, and the return of Give and Go.

Frustrated, hopeful, and always opinionated—this is an episode for every soccer fan who loves the chaos, passion, and unpredictability of the beautiful game on the road to the World Cup.

On Episode 251 of Insert Name FC Podcast, hosts Hector Flores and Edward Robles welcome special guest Carlos Mojica, author of Goal! Awesome Soccer Stories and Fun Facts for Kids. This episode dives into Carlos’s journey from El Salvador to working in US soccer, his passion for youth development, and the inspiration behind his children's book, which profiles legends like Pelé, Messi, Mia Hamm, and Magico Gonzalez.

Together, they discuss how soccer shapes family bonds, why representation matters, and the stories that make the global game magical for all ages. Plus, the team debates the new FIFA World Cup anthem, analyzes Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool legacy, and looks ahead to Didier Deschamps’ final World Cup as France manager. Tune in for thoughtful soccer conversation, laughs, and recommendations for matches to watch this week!

Links to Carlos Mojica’s book and social media are in the episode description.

Get the book: https://geni.us/goalawesomesoccer