Beyond the Score: 2026 World Cup – Messi, the Muppets, and Water Breaks

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The expanded 2026 men’s World Cup, staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico with a record 48 teams, wrapped up after six weeks. Spain became champions for the second time, defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra-time during the final at the New York-New Jersey stadium.

More than the Score’s Mike McCarthy is joined by the i paper’s chief football writer Daniel Storey and CBS Sport’s Lisa Carlin to dissect the final and the competition as a whole.

Daniel recounts his vast road trip around the US covering the event and discusses the privilege of watching Lionel Messi, possibly for his last World Cup appearance. He also makes the case that FIFA must confront soaring ticket prices going forward.

Lisa describes why the tournament resonated with American supporters and why she appreciated the divisive half-time show featuring Justin Bieber, Brazilian icon Ronaldo and the Muppets.

More than the Score delivers insight beyond the men’s football World Cup – the new sides, emerging stars, trends and fan cultures that give the tournament its shape in ways the numbers alone don’t reveal. With 48 countries competing across Mexico, the US and Canada, this show guides you deeper, from the opening group matches all the way to the final. Search for More than the Score wherever you listen to podcasts.

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