Midweek Soccer Preview: USL, MLS Action and World Cup Expansion Insights

Wednesday’s Key Fixtures

Soccer fans have plenty to look forward to on Wednesday, July 22. From South America’s Copa Sudamericana to domestic USL and MLS showdowns, here’s the midweek schedule you won’t want to miss:

• Copa Sudamericana: Medellín vs. Vasco da Gama (6 p.m., beIN Sports)
• USL Championship: Lexington SC vs. Oakland Roots (7 p.m., CBS Sports Network)
• MLS: Inter Miami CF vs. Chicago Fire (7:30 p.m., ATV)
• MLS: Columbus Crew vs. New York City FC (7:30 p.m., ATV)
• MLS: Philadelphia Union vs. New York Red Bulls (7:30 p.m., ATV)
• USL Championship: Colorado Springs Switchbacks vs. Miami FC (9 p.m., Paramount+ & Golazo Network)
• MLS: LA Galaxy vs. St. Louis City SC (10:30 p.m., ATV)

Analyzing the 64-Team World Cup Proposal

The 2026 FIFA World Cup marked a significant shift with its 48-team format. Reports now suggest FIFA is considering a further expansion to 64 teams for the 2030 edition—co-hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal, with opening matches in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay to honor the tournament’s origins.

Critics of the current format point to the complex “third-place qualifier” scenarios and the risk of dead-rubber group matches. As Pardeep Cattry observed, “figuring out which third-place teams advance becomes a headache, and some group-stage finales have felt purposeless.” Proponents argue that a 64-team field could streamline qualification and preserve competitive balance, though the logistics of such an expansion remain under review.

Whether FIFA ultimately adopts the 64-team model, the 48-team World Cup has demonstrated that global football can thrive under varied tournament structures. The debate underscores the enduring magic of the World Cup—no matter its size.

Tune In to CBS Sports Golazo Network

CBS Sports Golazo Network delivers round-the-clock soccer coverage. Here’s what to catch on the free 24/7 channel:

Morning Footy (Weekdays, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.)

Start your day with highlights, interviews and in-depth analysis on the network’s flagship daily show. Available live and as a podcast, Morning Footy keeps fans informed on the latest global soccer storylines.

Attacking Third

The leading women’s soccer podcast expands into a live studio show. With the NWSL in full swing, Attacking Third offers expert breakdowns of USWNT performances, domestic league action and European fixtures.

Call It What You Want

Former USMNT stars Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies and Tony Meola discuss everything from national team developments to the state of soccer in the United States. New episodes stream on the Golazo America YouTube channel.

Scoreline

Launching seven days a week, Scoreline delivers fast-paced recaps of major results, highlight reels and top goals from competitions worldwide. Tune in daily for the latest in global football.

How to Watch

You can stream CBS Sports Golazo Network for free on the CBS Sports app, Pluto TV and Paramount+. Don’t miss unmatched soccer coverage throughout the season.