Putting a Bow on World Cup 2026 with USBWA Hall of Famer Mike DeCourcy
The 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 Readers
Read Mike's retirement feature and World Cup coverage on The Sporting News.
Follow John Krysinsky on Twitter/X: @JohnKrysinsky
Follow Pittsburgh Soccer Now: @PghSoccerNow
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