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In this episode of the Soccer for Kids podcast, Darren Rees tells the remarkable true story of Ricardo Pepi, one of the most exciting young forwards in world football and a player widely tipped to shine at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the United States men's national soccer team.

Perfect for children, families, young football fans and anyone searching for inspiring soccer stories, this episode dives deep into Ricardo Pepi’s journey from the US Mexico border to the biggest stages in world football.

You will hear how Pepi grew up between two countries in El Paso, Texas and Ciudad Juárez, learning his football on dusty pitches, in street games and youth leagues, guided by a calm but determined father who believed hard work mattered more than hype. This is a story about family, sacrifice, patience and belief.

The episode explores Pepi’s breakthrough with FC Dallas, where he became one of Major League Soccer’s youngest stars, broke teenage scoring records, delivered clutch playoff goals and announced himself as one of the best young strikers in the league. It also explains his huge decision to represent the United States internationally and his unforgettable USMNT debut where he scored and assisted in a World Cup qualifier.

There is honesty too. Kids will learn that football careers are not always smooth. Pepi’s move to Germany brought challenges, self doubt and a painful World Cup omission. But instead of giving up, he reset, rebuilt and rediscovered his confidence in the Netherlands before earning a move to Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven, where he became a feared super substitute in domestic football and the UEFA Champions League.

Along the way, this episode touches on identity, resilience, humility and staying grounded, including Pepi’s pride in his Mexican American heritage, his close bond with his family and the promise he kept to bring them all back together.

If you are searching for kid friendly football podcasts, soccer biographies for children, USMNT player stories, 2026 World Cup content or inspirational sports stories, this episode is a must listen.

Big dreams. Hard work. No shortcuts. This is the story of Ricardo Pepi, El Tren, full steam ahead.

Listen now on Soccer for Kids ⚽

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