Podcast: World Cup preview with Frank Dell’Apa

We break down the 2026 World Cup in our latest podcast.

Who better to preview the World Cup with than Frank Dell’Apa?

The Boston Globe’s soccer writer will cover his eighth World Cup this summer and joined NESJ’s Matt Doherty for a mega-preview ahead of the opening match on June 11. The 2026 World Cup carries extra meaning, taking place in North America for the first time since 1994, highlighted by seven matches in Foxborough, Mass.

Dell’Apa and Doherty discussed the state of the U.S. team, the tournament’s favorites and its dark horses. They also broke down the matchups taking place in Foxborough, including a showdown between France and Norway.

Here are some highlights from the conversation:

On expectations for the U.S team

“It’s probably the most talented team the U.S. has ever had,” said Dell’Apa. “They should advance from the group. It’s not a group they can’t handle. The real challenge for the U.S. is when they play really good European teams. That’s where the real test is and where it usually ends for the U.S. But if they don’t win the group, it’s going to be a harder road and cause more doubts.”

Spain was your pick to win last year. Who is it now?

“I go by what’s in front of me, and I happened to see France when they played Brazil in Foxborough in March,” said Dell’Apa. “They also trained at the Revolution facility. I got to see them up close. They have so many good players. They have to be my favorites to get at least to the final. The other team for me is Germany. I got an up-close look at them, too. They left an impression.”

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Which fan base is going to show up the biggest here in New England?

Scotland. I don’t think anyone has ever seen anything like Scotland. Even with the distances between things here, they are going to find a way to have a real presence. The Scotland fans are true fans. They’ll be here and won’t even go to the games. They’ll have bagpipes and kilts, and really show the way. They’re just so passionate. I think they are taking yellow school buses to the games.”

The full podcast is below and is available on all major platforms.