Football Lenses
Anthony Maitland, Luis Gerardo Baca
Two friends born and raised in Illinois. Giving our take on the sport that we love, known by most as football but by some as soccer. Join us on our weekly podcast where we discuss all things football. Follow us on our socials medias... Twitter: @Football_Lenses Instagram: football_lenses
Episodes
Its Been A While... Let us Explain
We are back and we honestly just ramble about the state of footy and all its biggest news.
The Start is upon us: Premier League Season Preview & Fantasy Predictions
The Premier League is back, and the Football Lenses crew is making their predictions! ⚽Who takes home the Premier League title? Who finishes in the Champions League spots? Who surprises us, who disappoints, and which teams could be fighting for survival?We’re also diving into Fantasy Premier League — breaking down our favorite picks, sleepers, must-haves, captaincy options, and players we think could make or break your season.From title contenders to relegation battles, breakout stars to fantasy steals, we’re putting our predictions on the line before the season gets underway.Who’s getting it right — and who’s going to look ridiculous by May?🎙️ Football Lenses ⚽ Premier League Predictions 🏆 Title & Top 4 Picks 📉 Relegation Predictions ⭐ Breakout Players 🔥 Fantasy Premier League Picks 💰 FPL Sleepers & Differentials
The Final Lens: World Cup Reflections, Fire's Downfall & Football's Dark Side
The 2026 World Cup has come to an end, and we're looking back at everything that made it unforgettable—for better and for worse.We break down the biggest moments from the tournament, the teams that exceeded expectations, the players who defined the competition, and what this World Cup will ultimately be remembered for.Back home, we turn our attention to another frustrating chapter for the Chicago Fire. Where has it gone wrong, and what needs to change if the club is ever going to become a consistent contender again?Finally, we tackle one of football's most uncomfortable conversations: governance and accountability. From FIFA to the World Cup and MLS, we discuss the controversies, decisions, and structural issues that continue to spark debate across the sport.It's an honest conversation about where the game is today—and where it needs to go next.
The World Cup Is Even Better in Person | Our Experience After Two Weeks
After two unforgettable weeks at the FIFA World Cup, we're finally sitting down to break it all down.In this episode, Anthony and Baca recap the biggest moments from the tournament so far, including the standout matches, surprise teams, unforgettable atmospheres, and the stories that don't make it onto the TV broadcast. We also share what it was actually like traveling from city to city, meeting fans from around the world, experiencing different stadiums, and living the World Cup firsthand.From incredible football to unforgettable memories, this is our complete recap of everything we've experienced over the last two weeks.⚽ In this episode:Our favorite matches and biggest surprisesTeams and players that have impressed us the mostThe atmosphere inside World Cup stadiumsBehind-the-scenes stories from our tripPredictions for the rest of the tournamentIf you're enjoying our World Cup coverage, be sure to like, subscribe, and let us know your favorite World Cup moment so far in the comments.#WorldCup #FIFAWorldCup #FootballLenses #SoccerPodcast #FootballPodcast #WorldCup2026 #Football
The World Cup Group Stage Has Been ABSOLUTE CHAOS 😳 Upsets, Disasters & Surprise Teams
The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is already delivering chaos, drama, and some massive storylines — and in this episode of Football Lenses, we break down all of the biggest results up to this point.We’re talking:The standout teams and most impressive performances so farThe biggest upsets and shock results of the tournamentWhich favorites are cruising and which ones are suddenly under pressureThe current group stage picture and what it means heading into the final matchesEarly thoughts on who looks like a real contender to make a deep runFrom statement wins to groups getting messy fast, we cover everything you need to know from the World Cup so far.🎙️ If you’ve been following the tournament, drop your biggest surprise team in the comments.
2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Matches RECAP | Biggest Surprises, Best Performances & Early Reactions
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and we're breaking down all the action from the opening matches of the tournament!In this episode of Football Lenses, we discuss: ⚽ The biggest results from the opening round 🔥 Surprise performances and standout players 🌍 Which nations made an early statement 📈 Teams whose stock is rising after Matchday 1 📉 Who should already be concerned 🏆 Early predictions for the rest of the tournamentFrom title favorites to potential dark horses, we analyze what we've learned from the first games of the biggest World Cup ever.Who impressed you the most? Which team disappointed you? Let us know in the comments below!🎙️ Subscribe to Football Lenses for World Cup coverage, match analysis, predictions, and international football discussions throughout the tournament.
Let it all WORK OUT
The final games of the season. Summer transfer business is already heating up. Arsenal bottled it, Palace did not. USA vs Senegal, England squad talk and so much more.
End of the Season and Things have heated up!
The end of the season is here. So many things happened in world football. Relegations were avoided, leagues were won, leagues were lost, and European spots were clinched.
Madrid Mayhem, Cheating Scandals, Arsenal Win the League, ETC.
We missed last weeks episode due to technical difficulties, sorry! We are back though talking about so much! Champions League, MLS, Europe's top 5 leagues, Madrid mayhem, and so much more.
Promotion, Relegation, Bottle Jobs, and Everything in Between!
In this weeks episode we talk about some of the biggest results around world football. MLS sides like LAFC, Inter Miami, Chicago Fire, and more. The European semi finals have kicked off and are heating up. The race for safety and the title in the prem have taken unexpected turns. And SO MUCH MORE!
The Seasons Ending... and Things are Heating Up
We discuss the end of the season in the Championship, a little MLS mostly pertaining to the Chicago Fire FC and Vancouver Whitecaps. Pitch invasions, goalkeepers fighting, and battling for league titles all at the same time.
Round Up of Events
In this episode we discuss a bunch of things like promotions, relegations, title winners and losers, MLS, the prem, and so much more.
A bump in the road
Due to unforeseen circumstances, we have not been able to record this week. That being said we had a backup episode for this very reason. Enjoy!
Quadruple hopes come crashing down, and the Road to the World Cup OFFICIALLY Begins
In this weeks episode we discussed the results of the FA Cup, which included Man City vs Liverpool, Arsenal vs Southampton, Chelsea vs Port Vale, and Leeds vs West Ham. We also discussed the big weekend that OUR Chicago Fire FC had, and their upcoming open cup fixture vs Detroit City FC. The new NU Stadium, and the GOAT scoring Miami's first ever goal inside of it. Then we did a quick chat about the final 6 teams that qualified for the World Cup and did a bracket to crown our 2026 World Cup Champions!
World Cup Chaos, UEFA Reigns Supreme, and an Owner that Truly Cares
In this weeks episode we discussed a couple things, most of which pertain to the world cup, like the start of the qualifying finals, ticket prices, transportation costs and that terrible Jelly Roll song. We also discuss UEFA and their stance against pricing fans out, and why Euro 2028 will be revolutionary. Finally we discusses some USL news and talked about an owner in world football that actually did what is right for the fans for once.
England Trip and UCL Recap
AJ went on a trip to England and talks all about it. He went from London to Newcastle and back to London. Tyne Wear Derby, Saint James Park stadium Tour amongst other things. We also discussed the ending of the UCL's first round of knockouts.
Corruption, Chaos, and Underdogs Unfolding
In this weeks episode we discussed the Champions League, and Premier League as well as some other key title races or matches. We highlighted corruption in AFCON, and the Premier League after the Chelsea verdict. We once again mentioned the start of a NEW USL team, and discussed how MLS teams can really give their fans a great experience.
Something a bit Different
This week we did something a bit different. No video this week unfortunately but more ball talk. We did a this or that with a guest who does not know much about ball. Let us know if you like this version of the pod!
The Most Unlikely of Finals?? Drop Everything and Go...
In this episode we talked about the Champions League. We rounded up the final results of the playoff to the knockouts. Then we talked about the new draw and our teams playing in Hungary?? Spurs, Forest, Arsenal are all in danger, Wolves and City smell fresh blood and on the tails of those ahead of them. MLS continued with match week 2 and there were some real estate developments across the US soccer landscape. We finished the episode by talking about a true OG on the FIFA scene KSI and his new club!
MLS Season is Upon Us and Footy Round Up
The kickoff of MLS is upon us. The 2026 season was underway this weekend, and AJ went to Houston for the Fire vs Dynamo game with friend of the podcast Ricardo. We highlighted some of the big moments in MLS opening weekend like LAFC vs Inter Miami, NYRB, and San Diego Fc. We then talked about the rest of the world footy. That includes the champions league, Premier League, Serie A, and basically all other big European leagues.
2026 MLS Preview and Predictions... Fall Offs, Come Ups, and Everything in between
In this weeks episode as we lead into the MLS 2026 season starting (this Saturday for those listening on release day), we thought why not predict the leagues standings. Now look we are by no mean experts, and we do not have the time to know all the signings and departures for every team in the league. BUT we do love football, we do love our Chicago Fire, and AJ especially loves MLS.
A Day of Magic, Drama, Disappointment, and Dysfunction
In this weeks episode we discuss the final group games of the 25/26 Champions League. We also discuss the big results of the Premier League over the weekend, some ongoing MLS news, AFCON's aftermath, and insane standards that make no sense.
A Rose and A Throne, USL Promotion and Relegation Confirmed
This week we talk a little bit about home town Hero Derrick Rose. We discuss the implementation of promotion and relegation in the USL (United Soccer League), and the new realigning of the divisions. The resurgence of Manchester United, the crumble of Arsenal, and the fierce fight amongst the top of the Serie A table.
End of the Road... AFCON, Madrid in the cup, Crystal Palace.
In this weeks episode of Football Lenses we discussed the end of AFCON. The end of Real Madrid in the Copa Del Rey, and Palace's capitulation. We also discussed Mark Goldbridge and his out of pocket antics, Robin Van Persie's son to the rescue and MLS changes.
A New Lense
We FINALLY started a video podcast... check it out on YouTube. We may or may not have messed up the introduction though... Either way we are trying to branch out and try new things this year so thanks for the support!In this weeks episode we talk about Cupsets, Ground extensions and Training Grounds. Crazy results around the world. New managerial appointments, AFCON chaos, and MLS signings/season approaching.
The First of Many
In this weeks episode we discussed things like managerial sackings and appointments, Football is dying?, The Chicago RED Stars are building a new training facility WHERE?!?, and a few little tidbits of information surrounding MLS. We also briefly talked about a player being released and the end of West Ham. Todd Boehly, Roman "the Great" as Baca calls him and blood money in footy.
The Last Episode...
The last episode of the year... BUT in the new year we have a lot of plans of things to come!We shared our favorite footy moments that we have experienced this year. The good, the bad, and everything in between. We discuss the end of the year standings across Europe's top 5 leagues. We also discuss some of the transfer rumors that are starting to stir up!
Cup Hopes Have Come and Gone
In this week's episode we discussed the plethora of cup competitions worldwide. Including AFCON, Carabao Cup, and the Super Coppa Italia. We also discussed the transfers in MLS thus far, and some rumors that are out and aboot, USL clubs, new stadiums across the United States, and where should Lewa end up.
The Final Time is Now!
On this weeks episode we focus on plenty of different things in the world of football. Once again discussing World cup scandals (aka the ticket prices). The CHAMPIONSSSSSSS, and the Premier League. We also talked about the new USL rosters and the change of the cup sponsor. MLS and Leagues Cup is back for the Fire...
World Cup Clashes, Cringe Fest, and a new Champion has been Crownd.
On this exciting episode of Football Lenses, we dive head-first into the brand-new World Cup draw — breaking down every group, dropping our bold predictions, and debating who’s primed to top each one. Then we turn our focus stateside, because Messi FC (yes… Inter Miami) just lifted the MLS Cup, and we’ve got plenty to say about that wild ride.And of course… we cannot ignore that World Cup draw show. The awkward jokes, the bizarre pacing, the “what is even happening?” moments — we relive it all with full honesty and plenty of laughs.Tap in, because this episode is packed with takes, predictions, and pure football chaos through our lens.
Playoffs Playoffs Hear all About it!
In this weeks episode the lenses really focus on the champions league, the premier league, and any big news surrounding world footballs biggest competitions. We then dive deeply into the MLS playoffs and upcoming MLS Cup final between Inter Miami and the Vancouver Whitecaps. Liga MX Liguilla playoffs and upcoming final. We round out by mentioning our former glory days on the pitch, potential upcoming social media posts on the field, and a giveaway that is in the works!
A Familiar Face Has Returned
Hi yall, here is us yapping for almost 2 hours. We once again discuss world cup host cities, who really deserved the right to host. How our weekend in Chicago was with Toon Army Chicago and Newcastle United. We discuss the big results in MLS, upcoming travel plans, and USL finals.
Return of the Baca
This was such an eventful week of football. Stories, Scenes, and Limbs during World Cup qualifiers, who will win the playoffs on the road to the world cup? Monumental rule changes in MLS and the effect it will have on soccer in this country both MLS and USL wise. Ronaldo visited Trump? Are the Chicago Stars holding back the growth of the NWSL?Follow us on all social media platforms: @Football Lenses
Whose that in the back?!?
Dive into the latest in soccer with Football Lenses! In this episode, we break down the hottest action from the MLS and the Premier League, and quickly explore the drama and excitement of the Champions League. Plus, we had a special guest joining us in the background. Tap in with us on all of our social medias.
World Cup Hopes & The Geek up in Smoke
The Chicago Fire’s playoff dreams go up in smoke — but the soccer world keeps turning. We dive into the Fire’s postseason exit, the latest World Cup buzz, and all the random football stories that caught our eye this week. Just another day seeing football through our lens.
Back to the Basics
Hello we are back with a weekly or couple week long round up of what has happened in the world of Futbol. Things like Champions League, Premier League, El Classico, MLS Playoffs, and other weird and random stories from around the world.
Apologies for the Delay!
Hi team, sorry we missed last week, life got in the way. Sorry for this week as well, but hey something is better than nothing! We basically talk all things Chicago Fire and MLS.
Sorry Aboot Last Week Ep. 8
Sorry about last week, we were both a little under the weather, That being said, we had a very eventful week, as did the world of footy. So join us in our weekly ball talk. Also, check us out on TikTok @Football Lenses.
Weekly Round Up and Balon D'Or Ep. 7
We did not talk about the UCL last week, but this week we do! We also discuss MLS, Premier League, and the Balon D'Or ceremony. We also discuss our Chicago Fire, and the end of MLS as playoffs quickly approach.
Yaps and Ball Talk Ep. 6
We talk about the results from this past weekend in the Premier League, as well as the big derby in the Serie A. We also talk a little bit about the Chicago Fire, Premier League Fan Fest, and tangents about other sports.
Not Much has Happened Ep. 5
We talked about what happened in our life over the past week, Most of it revolved around Footy. I do not know what else to say.
There We Land... The Window is CLOSED Ep. 4
We took a trip to Detroit this weekend for some USL, and exploration. We briefly discuss our trip and some other USL news. We then review the weekend of footy, like The big 6 cartel robbing Fulham and Burnley, Newcastle's spectacular summer window, the banter that is premier league football fans and so much more. We also discuss the disgusting scenes in the league cup final by Luis Suarez and Inter Miami.
Another Week Another Podcast Ep. 3
This week we catch up on our lives over the past week. We dive into upcoming dates for the World Cup like VISA applications, draw dates, locations, and so much more. We also briefly discuss the horrendous result our Chicago Fire put us through this past weekend! Then as per usual we discuss all the latest news out of the Premier League, new stadiums, new players, terrible coaching, and GAME OF THE YEAR?!?Follow us on social media @Football Lenses
Footy Season is upon us Ep. 2
This week we talk about our Chicago Fire. Which causes a small tangent in which we discuss what the top 4 cities in the US are. We also talk about the Premier League starting and highlight teams such as Chelsea, Sunderland, Newcastle, West Ham, and Everton. We discuss how the population of Mexico now supports Sunderland?!? We finish up by talking about exciting developments in USL soccer like Pittsburgh and Sacramento. Follow us on social media @Football Lenses
New League Season, New Football Lenses Season EP. 1
We took a little break from podcasting so Baca could enjoy vacation and AJ could enjoy life... but we are back and better than ever. New season, new drama, same content.In this episode we discuss, USL teams like Detroit and Vermont. MLS teams like our Fire, and LAFC. La Liga in the US, premier league summer series and so much more. We also reveal our premier league table from worst to first (also available on Tik Tok). If you like what you hear follow along on all socials @Football LensesWe try to post weekly Tik Toks!
The End... or the Beginning??? Ep. 35
We discuss the club world cup final. We talk about MLS, Chicago Fire, and all the shenanigans surrounding the club. We also discuss a break as Baca explores the world. Plus so much more, lock in on all socials especially TikTok.
Where you go we'll follow... Ep. 34
We went to another away day for our Chicago Fire, this time to Cincinnati! It was our first time and despite the result we had a great weekend! We also got to watch and discussed the Gold Cup final between USA and Mexico, and the Club World Cup. We rounded out the episode by talking about recent news like transfers and stuff.We are also active on Tik Tok, so follow us over there, thanks!
Summer of the Club Gold Cup Continues Ep. 33
This week we chat about the state of the podcast, future footy adventures that we have planned, but more importantly we talk about the Club World Cup, the Gold cup, and other news surrounding the footballing world.
Club World Cup, Gold Cup, and What Ever Else Happened Ep. 32
We discuss our spontaneous Saturday in Indy. Update everyone on the club world cup, and gold cup. We also glaze Messi and Inter Miami a little bit, but it is fully deserved. Follow us on Tik Tok to stay up to date on our summer footy plans.
Pardon the Interruption Ep. 31
We apologize for last week, due to unforeseen circumstances we could not record. The club world cup has kicked off, so has the Gold Cup. There is drama around the USMNT camp. New stadiums, new teams, and so much more is discussed.