It’s been almost a month, and Archie, Chris, Mark and Tom are together after a game for the generations, and to try and talk about Argyle.

Where else to start but a magical night (or early morning) for England in the Azteca? In one of those games that grabbed hold of you and refused to let go, the conversation moves through the MORON who claimed not to be excited and who couldn’t sleep when it was finished, the world-class talent, the tactical astuteness of the coach, the agony and the ecstasy of added time. Where does the game rank in all-time England performances? What could come next? How has the World Cup landed in the USA? Has there been a better example of thriving under pressure? What will the score be against the rowing Norwegians? So much has been said and written about the game that we have added nothing new, but it was a joyous experience to record. And we managed to avoid politics, almost…

Part two looks forward to a new season that will be here before we know it. An exciting League Cup draw, a solid group of signings, and could Michael Baidoo represent the ultimate redemption arc? It’s hard to focus with a World Cup in full flow, but everyone - even if they don’t really know it yet - is excited for 'real' football to return.

On to Norway! On to Tavistock! We’ll be back again soon as one competition draws to a close and another gets ready to begin. It’s the circle of football life, Clive.

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In this episode of the Pilgrims Podcast, host Mark Lovell is once again joined by Plymouth Argyle Director of Football Derek Adams for a wide-ranging and lively World Cup special.

Derek and Mark look ahead to Scotland’s huge test against Brazil in Miami and it promises to be a proper examination in stifling heat. Conditions, tactics, and mentality all come under the duo’s spotlight. Can Scotland stay in the game long enough to cause a shock, or will Brazil’s quality (Neymar?) tell in the end? Derek breaks it all down in detail. Defensive structure, game management, and what it might take to survive against elite opposition on the biggest stage. Liverpool away at Anfield anybody?

There’s also plenty of focus on England’s impressive start under Thomas Tuchel, with praise for their tactical flexibility, squad depth, and the way the Three Lions dismantled Croatia in their opener.

Beyond the matches, the discussion goes deeper into modern coaching. How in-game decisions are made, how systems evolve mid-match, and what separates good tournament teams from great ones. Derek also reflects on his transition into his role at Plymouth Argyle, offering insight into life behind the scenes as DOF.

Packed with analysis, big opinions, and a touch of nostalgia for World Cup moments gone by (without hydration breaks).

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Join host Mark Lovell as he sits down with Plymouth Argyle Director of Football Derek Adams for a wide-ranging look ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

From Scotland’s long-awaited return to the biggest stage for the first time since 1998, to England’s hopes under Thomas Tuchel, the pair reflect on some of football’s most memorable World Cup moments. From Archie Gemmill’s wonder goal and the Tartan Army in Argentina, to Maradona, penalties, heartbreak and near misses, Adams shares personal stories from Scottish football, including fascinating insights involving Sir Alex Ferguson, Jock Stein, and Scotland’s World Cup squads of the past.

The conversation also turns to the modern game, with discussion on tournament expansion, climate concerns in North America, VAR, goalkeeping, Harry Kane, Scott McTominay, and whether Scotland can finally break their World Cup curse.A nostalgic, entertaining and thought-provoking World Cup special from two lifelong football men.

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