Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to a chaotic AFCON final and ask the uncomfortable question: was the spectacle a nightmare for the sport? The guys break down what went wrong, what it says about tournament organization, and why moments like this matter for global soccer’s credibility. Christian and Alexis dive into viral territory as iShowSpeed encounters his first ultra fans in Algeria — and quickly learns that not every football culture rolls out the red carpet.

Next, Copa90 creative director Shawn Francis joins the show to talk World Cup 2026 coming to America, why he’s completely flipped his stance on MLS’s new schedule, and what the league needs to do to actually become “cool.”

The episode wraps with a look at Manchester City’s recent slump and whether Pep Guardiola has the answers to pull City out of their funk.

Timestamps:
(8:00) – Was the AFCON final an embarrassing moment for the sport?

(26:30) – IShowSpeed encounters Algerian ultras

(34:15) – Shawn Francis joins The Cooligans

(1:11:15) – Can Pep save Man City again or has he lost control?

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Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down the latest soccer headlines, starting with reports that USMNT striker Josh Sargent could be headed back to MLS with Toronto FC. Is it a smart career move or a major step backward for the American forward? The guys also react to rumors linking Timo Werner to the San Jose Earthquakes and debate whether the club made a massive mistake by failing to keep star winger Cristian Espinoza. Plus, with Chucky Lozano’s exit from San Diego seemingly inevitable, they discuss who the club should target as his replacement.

Former Premier League defender Anton Ferdinand then joins the show to preview the West Ham vs. Tottenham derby and relive his legendary stoppage-time equalizer against Spurs in 2005. They also chat West Ham’s tough season so far and how the club can push forward to avoid relegation.

Finally, the guys debate whether Real Madrid made a massive mistake by firing Xabi Alonso and what it means for the club’s future. Christian and Alexis wrap things up with their AFCON Final predictions as Senegal and Morocco prepare to battle for continental glory.

Timestamps:
(6:45) – Josh Sargent heading back to MLS? Smart move or disaster?

(17:30) – Timo Werner is headed to San Jose: redemption tour or flop?

(30:15) – Chucky Lozano is leaving San Diego - who will replace him?

(37:15) – Anton Ferdinand joins The Cooligans

(57:00) - Xabi Alonso now Real Madrid’s biggest enemy?

(1:10:00) - AFCON Final Predictions

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Xabi Alonso’s stunning exit from Real Madrid has sent shockwaves through the soccer world. Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down why the club pulled the trigger and whether former Spain boss Luis Enrique would be the perfect revenge hire. Is this another chapter in Madrid’s ruthless managerial history, or a necessary reset for a struggling giant?

NBA star and die-hard Arsenal supporter Josh Richardson joins the Cooligans to talk all things soccer fandom. From becoming a Gunners fan through FIFA to soaking in the football culture of Miami, Josh explains how the city shaped his love for the game. Plus, the ultimate South Florida debate: Who’s the bigger celebrity in Miami — LeBron James or Lionel Messi?

The boys also discuss two major storylines shaping American soccer. With soccer officially overtaking baseball as the third most popular sport in the U.S., how can MLS and U.S. Soccer capitalize on this momentum? And with Ricardo Pepi suffering a broken arm, could this injury impact his chances of making the 2026 World Cup squad?

Timestamps:
(6:30) – Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid! Who should replace him?

(21:40) – NBA veteran Josh Richardson joins The Cooligans

(50:30) – Soccer overtakes Baseball in America: now what?

(1:01:00) – Does Ricardo Pepi’s newest injury endanger his World Cup chances?

Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:

🎧 Apple Podcasts

🎧 Spotify

🖥️ YouTube

📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv