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

It’s a milestone celebration on “Insert Name” FC as host Hector Flores marks 250 episodes by diving deep into the big question facing the US Men’s National Team: Who’s earned their seat on the World Cup plane?

Joining Hector Flores are special guests Kelcey Coyne (of High Low Sports) and the ever-knowledgeable Nik Gable, as they break down the latest USMNT roster call-ups. Who’s a sure bet, who’s on the bubble, and who could sneak into 2026 by nailing this final audition?

The discussion heats up as the group tackles the shocking controversy from Africa: Senegal being stripped of their AFCON title and Morocco being crowned champions after the fact. The show also features an impassioned response from Moussa Seck, adding first-hand perspective and heart to the AFCON drama.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an episode without a Champions League check-in—Kelcey Coyne returns for a lively give-and-go on the biggest storylines heading into the quarterfinals, including Bayern’s dominance, Arsenal’s do-or-die scenario, underdog heartbreaks, and who might actually lift the trophy.

With milestone nostalgia, expert insight, and plenty of banter, the 250th episode of “Insert Name” FC is both a celebration of footy culture and a look ahead to football’s biggest stages.

Will your favorite player make the World Cup squad? Who’s under the most pressure in Europe? And does anyone want to face Bayern right now?

Press play, join the debate, and celebrate 250 episodes with us!

In this solo episode of "Insert Name FC Podcast," Hector Flores unpacks the latest buzz in global soccer. The show kicks off with the swirling rumors of Mauricio Pochettino being shortlisted for the Real Madrid job—does his history with Tottenham, PSG, Chelsea, and now the U.S. Men's National Team really make him a fit for one of the world’s most demanding clubs? Hector Flores examines Poch’s highs, lows, and what could be next for the Argentine manager after the World Cup.

The discussion then shifts to a crisis in El Tri’s camp. With starting goalie Ángel Malagón out with an Achilles injury, the big question arises: Should Mexico call on 41-year-old legend Memo Ochoa one more time, or pass the torch to up-and-comers like Raúl Rangel or Carlos Acevedo? Hector Flores weighs the emotional and tactical factors at play in Mexico’s search for a safe pair of hands on the world’s biggest stage.

This week’s episode also puts a spotlight on the dual-national debate, focusing on the real-life dilemma of Noahkai Banks. With eligibility for both the U.S. and Germany, the Banks’ decision is under the microscope. Hector Flores shares why young talents must follow their hearts—and why fans should respect whatever choice they make.

Hear all this, plus Players of the Week, top matchups to watch in MLS, Liga MX, and across Europe, and a special Give and Go card segment revealing Hector’s favorite players. Whether you’re here for the analysis, the nostalgia, or the spicy takes, this episode is packed with must-hear soccer conversation!

Tune in now for all the latest drama and discussion in U.S. and Mexican football, plus the ever-evolving world of global soccer.

Dive into another lively episode of the "Insert Name" FC Podcast as Hector Flores is joined by Jose Tellez from Golz TV for a football conversation packed with hot takes, nostalgia, and straight-up chaos.

This week, the headlines get wild as the duo reacts to the record-shattering Mineiro Championship Final between Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro—a match ending with 23 (yes, twenty-three!) red cards and UFC-level brawls. They break down the madness, what sparked it, and why you might want to start tuning in to more South American football just for the sheer drama.

Kit culture fans get their fill with an in-depth chat about La Liga’s upcoming Retro Day. Hector Flores and Jose Tellez geek out over their favorite throwback kits, lament the clubs refusing to participate, and pitch how North American leagues could learn a thing or two about harnessing nostalgia and growing the fan base.

Plus, there’s a heated debate on Arsène Wenger’s controversial “daylight” offside rule—set to be trialed in the Canadian Premier League. Is it the football revolution nobody asked for? Expect passionate opinions, the pros and cons laid bare, and maybe a wish or two for some rules to fail spectacularly.

Also in this episode:

• A wild managerial sacking in Brazil after an 8-0 victory—what’s really going on behind the scenes at Flamengo?

• Petty rivalries and personal bets around MLS predictions (with plenty of playful trash talk directed at John Rivera)

• Players of the Week, top games to watch, and some laughs as they play the Give and Go card game to close out the show.

Whether you live for throwback kits, thrive on footy chaos, or just want to feel better about your club’s drama, this episode is for you. Grab your headphones and get ready for top-tier soccer banter.

Follow us on socials @insertnamefc for more updates and behind-the-scenes fun.

Episode 247: Headlines, Hot Takes, and Champions League Chaos dives deep into a wild array of headlines, sizzling hot takes, and pure Champions League madness! Hosts Hector Flores and Kelcey Coyne kick things off with the latest World Cup developments, tackling the heavy political and social issues unfolding in North America, and offering their perspectives on everything from stadium infrastructure to global security concerns ahead of the tournament.

Adding to the chaos, John from The Pitch Grid joins the conversation, sharing insights from a true MLS and Championship devotee. Together, they unpack the new Champions League format, drill into the wild play-in matches, and debate whether underdogs like Bodo Glimt can pull off stunning upsets against Europe’s biggest sides. Expect strong opinions, plenty of banter about American soccer culture, and a healthy dose of speculation about player transfers—including Antoine Griezmann’s potential move to Orlando City and what it means for the league’s future.

Also featured:

• Memorable stories about soccer nostalgia, Pokémon cards, and kit collections

• A rundown of Players of the Week (shoutout to Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal)

• Upcoming games to watch across MLS, Liga MX, and Europe

• A playful Give and Go segment that gets hosts reminiscing about unforgettable soccer moments

Timestamps 0:00:00 – Intro 0:05:00 – Kelcey Coyne joins 0:11:00 – Inter Miami’s White House visit with Trump, Messi/Coca-Cola/McDonald's memes 0:17:00 – World Cup political/security concerns in Mexico, government vs. cartels, FIFA monitoring 0:53:00 – Antoine Griezmann rumors, MLS marketability, and Orlando as a destination 1:17:00 – Don Garber’s pending exit as MLS Commissioner; league progress and the search for next leadership 1:47:00 – John joins club fandom, and “pitch grid” origin story 1:59:00 – Champions League playoff round-by-round recap (Galatasaray, PSG, Madrid, Atalanta, Newcastle, Leverkusen, Atlético, Bodø/Glimt) 2:05:00 – Champions League Round of 16 preview: matchup analysis and predictions 2:17:00 – Players of the Week and games to watch across Europe/MLS this weekend 2:23:00 – Closing segment: Give and Go soccer card game—core memories and reliving favorite moments

Whether you’re a hardcore football fan or just a lover of sports culture, this episode brings passionate debate, surprising perspectives, and a touch of humor to the beautiful game’s ongoing story.

Stream EP 247 now for World Cup news, Champions League insight, and a little bit of chaos—Insert Name FC style.

On this week’s episode of "Insert Name" FC, host Hector Flores dives deep into some of the most urgent and challenging conversations in world football, asking: “Why Are We Still Here?” Join us as Hector examines the persistent issues plaguing the beautiful game, from racism in European football following the controversial incident involving Vinícius Jr. in Real Madrid’s playoff round, to Messi’s heated reaction to physical play and referee decisions during Inter Miami’s matchup with LAFC.

We also unpack the rumors swirling around Mauricio Pochettino’s future with the U.S. Men’s National Team and what his departure could mean for American soccer. Plus, get updates on standout transfers, like the Griffin Dorsey move from Houston Dynamo to Orlando City, and shoutouts to rising stars such as Matthew Arana.

As always, Hector breaks down Players of the Week, must-watch matches for the upcoming weekend, and wraps things up with a lively Give & Go card segment that sparks fresh conversation about what makes American soccer special.

This thoughtful, unfiltered episode confronts tough realities, celebrates the spirit of the game, and challenges listeners to imagine a better future for football. Don’t miss it—tune in wherever you get your podcasts or catch the full video version on Belly Up Sports’ YouTube channel!

Jersey Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScEFq_h_zzRsAjLsfvRy30lqPDsnFPXrjFcGN4_D0JNrupAeA/viewform?usp=header