The Grassroots Football Coach

UEFA A Licence Coach Mark 'Rivo' Rivers, and Berks & Bucks FA's, Richard Brant, catch up with local and national football coaches to discuss their journeys, coaching philosophies and personal experiences in the sport. Follow Rivo & Rich as they catch up with old friends, new colleagues and footballing legends, and listen in, as each guest provides their own fascinating insight into football coaching from every level of the game.

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The Grassroots Football Coach

World Cup 2026 Preview

June 11, 2026 • Season 11 • Episode 5

0:00 | 40:22

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Join Rich and special guest, BBFA Football Development Officer, Adam Parry, as they dive into a full preview of the biggest World Cup in history—kicking off today! With a groundbreaking 48-team format, hosted across three nations, this tournament promises to be unlike anything we’ve seen before.

They break down the numbers—104 matches, 16 host cities, and 1,248 players—while shining a spotlight on debut nations ready to make their mark, including Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan.

Expect bold predictions and lively debate as they cover:

-Tournament favourites
-Biggest surprises
-Big-name nations at risk of an early exit
-Which host (USA, Mexico, or Canada) will go furthest
-And… how far can England really go?

Plus, the guys make their player picks:

-Golden Boot winner
-Golden Ball (Player of the Tournament)
-Breakout young star

And finally, they reflect on the possible “last dance” for some of football’s greatest ever icons—Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar, Modrić—could this be their final World Cup moment?

Don’t miss this essential preview to get you tournament-ready.