Destination New Jersey: Host tensions, expansion beneficiaries & the Comoros dream

Is the tension between World Cup co-hosts USA, Canada and Mexico a concern? Can Comoros complete the ultimate underdog story? Plus, will Chris Wood and Erling Haaland be firing in the goals for New Zealand and Norway next year?

Kelly Cates and Rory Smith get our countdown to 2026 underway in Destination New Jersey.

JT Batson, CEO & Secretary General of the US Soccer Federation, joins us to discuss their preparations for the tournament. Former New Zealand manager, Ricki Herbert, talks up their chances of making it to next summer’s World Cup 16 years after he guided them to South Africa.

President of the Norwegian Football Association, Lise Klaveness, explains the pressure on them to ensure Erling Haaland and their talented generation can reach the finals.

And we’re joined by former Wolves boss Stefano Cusin as he bids to take Comoros to their first World Cup.

TIMECODES: 02:10 - JT Batson – CEO & Secretary General of US Soccer Federation 17:50 - Stefano Cusin – Comoros manager 26:19 – Ricki Herbert – Former New Zealand manager 39:36 – Lise Klaveness – President of the Norwegian Football Association.

Commentaries on 5 Live/BBC Sounds: Wednesday: Manchester City v Chelsea - Women's Champions League (8pm) Thursday: Greece v Scotland - Men's Nations League play-off (7:45pm) Friday: England v Albania - Men's World Cup 2026 qualifying (7:45pm) Sunday: Manchester City v Chelsea - Women's Super League (2:30pm)