The Big Chill Podcast

Belgium, Balogun, and Botched Penalties

The Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is nearly complete, and there have been some thrilling finishes to matches. Eddie thinks that England weren't quite as bad as people are making out, and feels confident ahead of their clash against Mexico at the Azteca. There were controversial refereeing decisions galore, as Balogun was sent off for the USA, England were denied a penalty, and Germany and Spain had goals chalked off for mystery fouls on a goalkeeper. But the real question is, will anyone be able to stop France? Can Belgium build on the momentum of their late comeback against Senegal? And will we see a better version of Brazil against Norway? Plus, Frank is finally watching 'From', Eddie isn't impressed with 'Life, Larry, and the Pursuit of Unhappiness', and Serena Williams was up to her old tricks against Maya Joint at Wimbledon.

World Cup Knockout Stage Preview

The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stages have come to a close, and Frank and Eddie look back at the top performers, the underachievers, and some of the most interesting stats. France and Argentina impressed the most, but what should the expectations be for England, Portugal, the USA, and Canada heading into the knockout stages? Plus, Eddie nearly found a loophole in the Air France booking system, Ben Stokes' main character syndrome rears its ugly head during his retirement from international cricket, Andros Townsend has some peculiar in-flight meals, and Frank shares his initial thoughts on Larry David's new TV show.

World Cup Round 2 Reaction

Eddie is surviving the European heatwave, but does think that people are overreacting to England's 0-0 draw with Ghana. Frank was less impressed by the officiating than he was by England, and Eddie agrees that England had a lucky escape with one or two of the decisions. Ronaldo scored twice against Uzbekistan, and Eddie believes that Frank is giving CR7 a slightly hard time when it comes to his role within the Portugal team.  Plus, how much will this World Cup impact Erling Haaland's legacy? Serena Williams is back, but will she be a popular draw in the first round of Wimbledon? And is Zlatan Ibrahimovic playing a character as he stars alongside Thierry Henry on Fox Sports?

2026 World Cup Preview

Our preview and prediction ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. How will the host nations of Canada, the USA, and Mexico fare? And will England, Portugal, Spain, and France live up to expectations? We could be on course for a last Ronaldo versus Messi match-up, but can Brazil and Argentina bring further success to South America? Plus, Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States, meaning that he won't be able to referee at this World Cup. And Eddie asks what Gianni Infantino was doing sucking up to Donald Trump if it can't even guarantee entry for key officials.

Roland Garros and World Cup Warmups

Alexander Zverev won the 2026 French Open to claim his first Grand Slam title, but Eddie is disappointed that his controversies overshadowed the tournament. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is nearly upon us, although there are serious concerns over the quality of pitches and playing conditions in the United States. And Christian Eriksen's collapse during Denmark's recent friendly should bring a sad end to an excellent playing career.  Speaking of controversies, England Cricket once again finds itself in hot water after Ben Stokes and Gut Atkinson got into a scuffle in a club in Chelsea. Frank speaks about his recent hockey tournament in Nashville, and Eddie's Fiat Topolino continues to be a target for road rage.