Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast: The Sporting News’ Mike DeCourcy on USMNT’s Knockout Triumph and Scouting Belgium

The U.S. Men’s National Team is headed to the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time since 2002 after a gritty, chaotic 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara.

For a breakdown all the drama, tactical shifts, and what lies ahead, host John Krysinsky is joined by The Sporting News‘ senior writer, Mike DeCourcy.

In this rapid-fire episode, John and Mike dive straight into the fallout the USMNT’s win. They discuss how Mauricio Pochettino’s squad maintained absolute composure in the face of erratic refereeing and Folarin Balogun’s stunning 64th-minute red card. With the primary target man suspended for the next round, the guys look ahead to the tactical adjustments required to face Belgium. Who leads the line on Monday—Ricardo Pepi or Haji Wright? And how vital will the continued creative evolution of Malik Tillman be to the American attack?

Finally, they close out the show reflecting on Elliott Pohnl’s latest column, discussing the incredible, unifying power of a home World Cup that completely drowns out the cynicism of social media timelines.

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Follow our guests and read the columns discussed in today’s episode:

• Read Mike DeCourcy’s post-match column at The Sporting News.
• Follow Mike on X: @tsnmike.
• Keep up with all local and national tournament coverage at Pittsburgh Soccer Now.

John Krysinsky

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).