Kickback '26

First Touch ’26 - Sweden

Sweden returns to the World Cup with a history bigger than many realize and a new generation trying to add to it. We break down the Blue and Yellow’s controversial road to 2026, Graham Potter’s influence, Lukas Bergvall’s emergence, and the enduring impact of Zlatan Ibrahimović on Swedish football.

Left Off the Roster - Ep. 14 First Touch Weekly Presented by Soccer.com

World Cup roster season is here, bringing dream call-ups and heartbreaking omissions for players around the globe. Susannah Fuller discusses some of the notable snubs ahead of 2026 and the most memorable roster announcement videos so far. Then David Gass dives into the difficult reality of missing out on soccer’s biggest stage as former U.S. international and current LA Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney shares his own experience of falling short of a World Cup roster. 0:00 World Cup roster drama & biggest snubs 3:09 The best World Cup roster reveal videos 6:04 The heartbreak of missing out 17:38 Roberto Lopez’s Cape Verde send-off

First Touch ’26 - DR Congo

Susannah Fuller is joined by Stadio’s Musa Okwonga for a conversation about DR Congo’s return to the World Cup after more than 50 years away. Together, they discuss the country’s history and identity through soccer, the emotion surrounding the Leopards and their supporters, and the mix of experienced and emerging players hoping to make an impact in 2026.

First Touch Dispatch Presented by Soccer.com | Ep. 3

On this episode of First Touch Dispatch, we dive into roster announcements, players getting political and a deep look into the mass amount of injuries heading into this World Cup. All that and more on this edition of First Touch Dispatch. 0:37 DR Congo 1:12 Roster Announcements 4:20 Mbappe Gets Political 6:07 Climate Concerns 7:58 A Closer Look: Overuse and Injuries 12:14 One for the Road: Messi vs. La Familia

Colombia, James Rodríguez & World Cup Passion - Ep. 13 First Touch Weekly Presented by Soccer.com

David Gass explores Colombia’s World Cup identity, the legacy of James Rodríguez, and why Los Cafeteros continue to inspire such passion ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Featuring perspectives from journalists Andy Deossa and Carl Worswick on Colombia’s history, culture, and connection to the national team, plus the latest World Cup news from around the globe. 0:00 World Cup News Roundup 4:39 Colombia’s World Cup Story 7:55 The Legend of James Rodríguez 11:20 How Colombia Comes Alive for the World Cup