After the Final Whistle

Matthew reviews Tuesday’s blustering Champions League tie, the early exits of title contenders in European competitions and the breaking news out of the La Rioja camp.

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Matthew gives his thoughts on the recent controversy surrounding VAR, the Blues’ inability to earn results after their massive transfer spending and the 2-0 win for the US in their continental clash against Canada in the SheBelieves Cup.

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In the third episode of Destination Qatar, Matthew gives his thoughts on the Berhalter/Reyna feud and the tough road ahead for U.S. Soccer. Then, he’ll predict what legacy Qatar 2022 will leave behind — by going back to 1930 and the bizarre inception of the World Cup. Why was Uruguay chosen as the host? Which squad was chosen entirely by a king? And how did fog, a chicken coop and mounted police impact the first ever World Cup final?

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In the second episode of Destination Qatar, Matthew speaks on the passing of Brazilian legend Pelé and gives his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to the Saudi Pro League. Then, he looks back at the standout players from the World Cup and predicts how their performances will impact the January transfer window.

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In the first episode of a multi-part series, Matthew Placzek examines the foundation of any World Cup: the host country. Perhaps the most unlikely of choices, Qatar created a swirling chaos of discussion in their quest to hold the greatest edition of soccer's biggest tournament.

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The United States drew 0-0 to Saudi Arabia in their final match before their World Cup campaign opens against Wales on November 21st. What went well, what continues to go wrong, and is there anything this team can do to salvage the 2022 World Cup cycle?

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Major questions were raised after the United States failed to compete with Japan in their latest international friendly. Is there any hope for the Stars and Stripes before the World Cup, or will Qatar be the latest addition to a laundry list of embarrassments on the world's biggest stage?

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Matthew Placzek tries to understand the chaos at FC Barcelona and discusses if a new coach is the solution to their dilemma.

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Matthew Placzek looks at the updates from the transfer window before scrutinizing each of the 8 groups and their teams in the 2021/22 Champions League. 

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Matthew Placzek tries to pick apart the breaking news from the transfer portal, discusses the decay of the Ligue 1, and previews this season's UEFA Champions League draw.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit matthewplaczek.substack.com