Sounding Off on World Cup 2026: Spain’s Reign, Messi’s Farewell & A Fitting Finale for Mike DeCourcy

Putting a Bow on World Cup 2026 with USBWA Hall of Famer Mike DeCourcyThe 2026 FIFA World Cup is in the books, and on this final post-mortem episode, John Krysinsky brings back Mike DeCourcy (The Sporting News) -- who was there -- to break down Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife (NY/NJ) Stadium. More than just a World Cup recap, this episode celebrates a monumental milestone: Lat Sunday's final was Mike’s last official event as a full-time sports writer and columnist for The Sporting News after 37 years of Hall of Fame journalism. John and Mike discuss: • The growing soccer culture and jersey-wearing youth in the U.S. • Nuance in evaluating the USMNT's World Cup performance • Spain's "Billie Eilish" quiet brilliance on the pitch • Lionel Messi's final World Cup curtain call and staggering legacy • Mike's reflections on his 37-year career, his Point Park University roots, and the emotional text from FIFA that sealed his retirement assignment.TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction & Celebrating Mike DeCourcy’s Legacy 26:10 - The Generational Shift in U.S. Soccer Culture 29:06 - Re-evaluating the USMNT: Historic Firsts vs. Belgium Disappointment 30:08 - The Aging Core Ahead of World Cup 2030 32:03 - Press Box Reflections: Spain’s Victory & The "Billie Eilish" Metaphor 34:08 - The FIFA Credential Text: The Moment Retiring Hit Home 36:12 - 37 Years of Journalism, Point Park Roots, and Gratitude to ReadersRead Mike's retirement feature and World Cup coverage on The Sporting News. Follow John Krysinsky on Twitter/X: @JohnKrysinsky Follow Pittsburgh Soccer Now: @PghSoccerNowIf you enjoyed the podcast, please leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!