Sam Matterface and Alex Crook are heading to America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and this is where it all starts.

In the launch episode of The Inside Channel, ITV's Sam Matterface and talkSPORT's Alex Crook sit down for a full tournament preview, alongside Scott Minto: England's chances, the big nations, dark horses, Golden Boot picks, and the best betting markets ahead of the World Cup.

Plus, Sam and Alex kick off their head-to-head tipping competition - both locking in their outright winner and Golden Boot selections from the off. One of them will be facing a nasty forfeit come July...

The Inside Channel is the brand-new football World Cup podcast, brought to you in conjunction with Star Sports - with new episodes dropping three times a week throughout the tournament, all the way to the final.

⚽ In this episode:

Can England win the World Cup?

Scotland's chances and realistic ceiling

France, Spain, Brazil, Argentina - who lifts the trophy?

Dark horse picks Golden Boot contenders

The Alex vs Sam tipping competition begins

🎙️ Hosted by Sam Matterface & Alex Crook, with guest Scott Minto

📍 Recorded live at Star Sports, Curzon Street

🏆 New episodes three times a week throughout World Cup 2026

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📲 Follow along and back their picks at starsports.bet

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Sam Matterface and Alex Crook are teaming up to bring you The Inside Channel. The duo will be on the ground, taking you behind the scenes at the 2026 World Cup. Expect inside information, great value, top analysis and most importantly, that World Cup feeling with the fans. Keep an eye on our channels for the first episode dropping Wednesday 3rd June!