10 Things That Shocked Me Watching My First World Cup ⚽

I watched the World Cup for the first time, and I was not prepared for everything I experienced. In this episode of Pensando Out Loud, I share ten things that surprised, impressed, confused, and occasionally frustrated me. I discuss the constant acting, the USA reaction to the Balogun controversy, the greatness of Messi, Norway’s unforgettable Viking Row, the wild bronze final, and how Cabo Verde advanced without winning a group match. I also explain how Bosnia landed on my personal map, why Alex Freeman changed my assumptions about American athletes, and how the World Cup became an incredible cultural exchange. Despite the acting and the United States going full Karen, I finally understand why the world loves soccer. What shocked you most about the World Cup? Let me know in the comments. #pensandooutloudpodcast #pensandooutloud #WorldCup2026 #FIFAWorldCup #WorldCup #Soccer #Messi #ErlingHaaland #Norway #VikingRow #CaboVerde #Bosnia #USMNT #AlexFreeman #WomensWorldCup #spain