The Cooligans

Yahoo Sports
  • 4.9 (168)
  • SOCCER
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

The Cooligans is a comedy & soccer podcast delivering hilarious takes on the greatest sport in the world! Hosts Alexis Guerreros and Christian Polanco are two NYC stand-up comics who don't focus on stats or formations, they focus on the funny. Join us two times a week for some humorous reactions to football's wildest moments of the weekend. The beautiful game just got a little bit uglier.

  1. 16H AGO

    Worst MLS DP Flops Ever + Liverpool’s Red Card vs City Shakes the Premier League Title Race

    Segment one is pure MLS therapy. The Cooligans rank and debate the worst Designated Player signings of all time, asking how so many big names with even bigger expectations fell flat. From Rafa Márquez’s infamous tenure to the complicated legacies of Giroud, Shaqiri, and Insigne, the guys break down why hype doesn’t always translate on the field — and what MLS should learn from these costly misfires. In segment two, attention shifts to England as Liverpool’s clash with Manchester City sparks controversy. Was the red card justified, or did it unfairly tilt the match? The boys react in real time to City’s statement win and zoom out to assess what it means for the Premier League title race, with Arsenal now feeling real pressure as City creep closer. The episode wraps with a moment that raised eyebrows across the soccer world: Mauricio Pochettino telling Timothy Weah to “keep quiet” about World Cup ticket prices. The guys unpack why that comment hit a nerve, what it reveals about the relationship between players and federations, and why conversations about access and cost around the World Cup aren’t going away anytime soon.   Timestamps: (9:00) – Revealing the worst MLS DP flops of all-time (27:30) - Was Liverpool’s red card justified? (40:30) – Premier League title race heats up as Man City inch closer (49:00) – Reacting to Pochettino telling Tim Weah to “keep quiet” about World Cup ticket prices Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    59 min

  2. 4D AGO

    James Rodríguez to Minnesota?! + Fading USMNT Stars & What Went Wrong

    Is James Rodríguez really headed to Minnesota United? In one of the strangest transfer rumors we’ve ever seen, the Cooligans unpack how a global superstar could end up in MLS, what it would mean for Minnesota, and whether James still has enough left to move the needle in the league — or if this is destined to be pure chaos. Next, we revisit the USMNT hype machine and ask some uncomfortable questions. Gio Reyna, Yunus Musah, Gianluca Busio, Jordan Morris — all players who once felt like sure things. So what happened? We break down why their trajectories have stalled, what went wrong at club level, and whether there’s still time for a second act. Finally, we react to the wildest stories from around world soccer. From Vinícius Jr.’s girlfriend revealing uncomfortable details involving Real Madrid, to Gabriel Barbosa’s tense encounter with fans, to Cristiano Ronaldo’s “missing” posters popping up in Saudi Arabia — it’s another reminder that no sport delivers chaos quite like football.   Timestamps: (6:30) – James Rodriguez’s shock transfer to Minnesota United (21:30) - USMNT rising stars that have now faded (49:30) – Vini Jr’s girlfriend’s weird ointment story (53:30) – Reacting to other news around the soccer world Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    1h 7m

  3. FEB 2

    Derek Rae on the Power of Pronunciation, Global Soccer Culture & Becoming the Voice of EA FC

    Legendary commentator Derek Rae joins Christian and Alexis for a wide-ranging conversation on soccer, culture, and storytelling. From his upbringing in Scotland to his deep connection with German football, Derek explains how his love for languages and history shaped his broadcasting career—and why getting players’ names right is about far more than phonetics. He shares a powerful story about the real impact correct pronunciation can have on players and their families. Derek also takes listeners behind the scenes of how he became the voice of EA FC, revealing what the audition process was like, how the opportunity came together, and what it means to be recognized worldwide through a video game. Along the way, he reflects on the evolution of soccer media, iconic broadcasting moments, and the responsibility that comes with being a trusted voice of the sport. Finally, the conversation dives into the global game itself. Derek breaks down the cultural differences between MLS and European leagues, explains why Germany has become such fertile ground for American players, and offers thoughtful insight into the unique identity of soccer fandom in the United States. It’s a smart, funny, and deeply human conversation with one of the most respected voices in the game.   Timestamps: (2:00) – Why pronouncing player names correctly is important to Derek Rae (10:45) - Derek Rae’s soccer origin story (15:00) – How Europeans currently perceive MLS (23:45) – Is Germany the best place for Americans to develop? (35:00) – Is 2026 the year where the US becomes a real soccer country? (39:00) - How Derek Rae became the voice of EA FC Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    46 min

  4. JAN 29

    Separating CL Contenders and Pretenders, Is the Premier League Boring? & USWNT’s New Era Under Emma Hayes

    Christian Polanco and Christine Cupo kick things off by tiering the Champions League field, separating the favorites from the contenders, dark horses, and pretenders. Who’s built to go the distance, which clubs are being overrated, and who could surprise Europe this season? Next, the guys react to Anthony Gordon’s recent comments throwing shade at the Premier League. Has the league’s dominance made it predictable and boring, or is this just another case of fans confusing quality with excitement? Christian and Christine debate whether the “best league in the world” label still holds up. Finally, the conversation turns to the USWNT as Emma Hayes officially ushers in a new era. With a clear vision, fresh energy, and evolving tactics, the guys ask whether this team could reach an even higher level of dominance than previous generations. Timestamps: (4:30) – Recapping Champions League Matchday 8 excitement (9:00) –  Listing Champions League Pretenders (19:30) – Champions League contenders (28:30) – Champions League favorites (31:00) - Reacting to Anthony Gordon’s comments on PL’s lost excitement (43:30) - Emma Hayes ushering in USWNT’s new era? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    1 hr

  5. JAN 26

    Should Ricardo Pepi go to Fulham? + Carrick to United the right fit? & What Trinity Rodman’s NWSL Deal Means

    Ricardo Pepi could be on the move again — but is Fulham the right next step for the USMNT striker? Christian and Alexis break down what a Premier League switch would mean for Pepi’s development and confidence. Plus, they shine a light on Pellegrino Matarazzo’s impressive rise at Real Sociedad and why his success in La Liga matters for American managers abroad. Michael Carrick continues to impress on the touchline, but is he truly ready to become Manchester United’s full-time head coach? The guys debate Carrick’s tactical growth, leadership style, and whether United’s chaotic environment would help or hinder his evolution as a manager. The NWSL locks in one of its biggest stars as Trinity Rodman stays put — but what does that decision say about the league’s future? Christian and Alexis discuss player power, league ambition, and whether keeping top talent at home strengthens the NWSL’s global standing or limits its stars’ potential. Timestamps: (9:00) – Right time for Ricardo Pepi to move to Fulham? (24:30) –  Pellegrino Matarazzo shines early at Real Sociedad (36:30) – Michael Carrick ready to be Man United’s full-time head coach? (48:30) – Trinity Rodman gets Paid! But what does it mean for the NWSL? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    1h 5m

  6. JAN 22

    AFCON Final Fallout, Shawn Francis on MLS & World Cup 2026, and Can Pep Save Man City?

    Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to a chaotic AFCON final and ask the uncomfortable question: was the spectacle a nightmare for the sport? The guys break down what went wrong, what it says about tournament organization, and why moments like this matter for global soccer’s credibility. Christian and Alexis dive into viral territory as iShowSpeed encounters his first ultra fans in Algeria — and quickly learns that not every football culture rolls out the red carpet. Next, Copa90 creative director Shawn Francis joins the show to talk World Cup 2026 coming to America, why he’s completely flipped his stance on MLS’s new schedule, and what the league needs to do to actually become “cool.” The episode wraps with a look at Manchester City’s recent slump and whether Pep Guardiola has the answers to pull City out of their funk. Timestamps: (8:00) – Was the AFCON final an embarrassing moment for the sport? (26:30) –  IShowSpeed encounters Algerian ultras (34:15) – Shawn Francis joins The Cooligans (1:11:15) – Can Pep save Man City again or has he lost control? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    1h 31m

  7. JAN 15

    Josh Sargent to MLS? + Anton Ferdinand on West Ham vs Spurs & Real Madrid’s Xabi Alonso Mistake

    Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down the latest soccer headlines, starting with reports that USMNT striker Josh Sargent could be headed back to MLS with Toronto FC. Is it a smart career move or a major step backward for the American forward? The guys also react to rumors linking Timo Werner to the San Jose Earthquakes and debate whether the club made a massive mistake by failing to keep star winger Cristian Espinoza. Plus, with Chucky Lozano’s exit from San Diego seemingly inevitable, they discuss who the club should target as his replacement. Former Premier League defender Anton Ferdinand then joins the show to preview the West Ham vs. Tottenham derby and relive his legendary stoppage-time equalizer against Spurs in 2005. They also chat West Ham’s tough season so far and how the club can push forward to avoid relegation. Finally, the guys debate whether Real Madrid made a massive mistake by firing Xabi Alonso and what it means for the club’s future. Christian and Alexis wrap things up with their AFCON Final predictions as Senegal and Morocco prepare to battle for continental glory. Timestamps: (6:45) – Josh Sargent heading back to MLS? Smart move or disaster? (17:30) –  Timo Werner is headed to San Jose: redemption tour or flop? (30:15) – Chucky Lozano is leaving San Diego - who will replace him? (37:15) – Anton Ferdinand joins The Cooligans (57:00) - Xabi Alonso now Real Madrid’s biggest enemy? (1:10:00) - AFCON Final Predictions Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    1h 17m

  8. JAN 12

    Real Madrid Fire Xabi Alonso! Josh Richardson Breaks Down Arsenal & Messi vs LeBron

    Xabi Alonso’s stunning exit from Real Madrid has sent shockwaves through the soccer world. Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros break down why the club pulled the trigger and whether former Spain boss Luis Enrique would be the perfect revenge hire. Is this another chapter in Madrid’s ruthless managerial history, or a necessary reset for a struggling giant? NBA star and die-hard Arsenal supporter Josh Richardson joins the Cooligans to talk all things soccer fandom. From becoming a Gunners fan through FIFA to soaking in the football culture of Miami, Josh explains how the city shaped his love for the game. Plus, the ultimate South Florida debate: Who’s the bigger celebrity in Miami — LeBron James or Lionel Messi? The boys also discuss two major storylines shaping American soccer. With soccer officially overtaking baseball as the third most popular sport in the U.S., how can MLS and U.S. Soccer capitalize on this momentum? And with Ricardo Pepi suffering a broken arm, could this injury impact his chances of making the 2026 World Cup squad?   Timestamps: (6:30) – Xabi Alonso leaves Real Madrid! Who should replace him? (21:40) –  NBA veteran Josh Richardson joins The Cooligans (50:30) – Soccer overtakes Baseball in America: now what? (1:01:00) – Does Ricardo Pepi’s newest injury endanger his World Cup chances? Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app: 🎧 Apple Podcasts 🎧 Spotify 🖥️ YouTube 📢 Check out the Yahoo Sports podcast network or yahoosports.tv

    1h 8m
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4.9
out of 5
168 Ratings

About

The Cooligans is a comedy & soccer podcast delivering hilarious takes on the greatest sport in the world! Hosts Alexis Guerreros and Christian Polanco are two NYC stand-up comics who don't focus on stats or formations, they focus on the funny. Join us two times a week for some humorous reactions to football's wildest moments of the weekend. The beautiful game just got a little bit uglier.

Information

  • Channel
    Yahoo Sports
  • Creator
    Alexis Guerreros & Christian Polanco
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    921
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Cooligans
  • Show Website
    The Cooligans

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