World Cup Predictions, Sofía Vergara, Eloy Room's Messi Story & USMNT History with Leander Schaerlaeckens

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Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros kick off the show by making their biggest predictions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. From who will lift the trophy to who will win the Golden Boot and which nation could fall short of expectations, The Cooligans put their reputations on the line with their boldest World Cup takes. Then, Colombian actress and global superstar Sofía Vergara joins the show to talk about growing up in a soccer-obsessed Colombia, her favorite World Cup memories and why she’s excited to see the tournament return to North America.

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Next, Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room stops by to discuss one of the most remarkable stories of the 2026 World Cup. Room reflects on Curacao‘s historic qualification campaign, what it means to represent the smallest nation ever to reach the tournament and how Lionel Messi personally asked to swap jerseys after a match. He also shares stories from his career journey through Europe, MLS and international football.

To wrap up the show, USMNT historian and Guardian journalist Leander Schaerlaeckens joins The Cooligans to discuss the state of the United States Men’s National Team heading into the World Cup. Leander explains why the USMNT’s failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup may have accelerated the development of the current generation, breaks down America’s chances of making a statement this summer and looks at what success would truly mean for the program on home soil.

Timestamps:

(8:30) – World Cup predictions

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(32:00) – Sofia Vergara joins The Cooligans

(42:15) – Eloy Room joins The Cooligans

(1:04:00) – Leander Schaerlaeckens join The Cooligans

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