Episode 3407: Ireland’s Playoff Picture, Scotland Goes Loco, Curacao Make It, Heimir’s Speech, The Ashes

Just when we thought it was possible to stop thinking about international football non stop, along come the Scots with an epic roller coaster win over Denmark to secure their passage to the World Cup.

We discuss the incredible goals, Andy Robertson’s thoughts for his pal Jota and how our own playoff picture is shaping up now we know we will face an away semi final against either Poland, Wales, the Czech Republic, or Slovakia.

Curacao became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica, and Jamaica’s head coach Steve McLaren resigned after the game.

The Ashes start this week in Perth and England are in the very rare position of having a solid chance of beating Australia on their home patch. We check in with Daniel Norcross of BBC 5 Live’s legendary Test Match Special. Plus there’s Heimir’s battery speech, Dunphy On tv and Sky Sports News moaning about international football.

Click the player at the top of the page to play the show. Monday’s shows are free to all. To listen to our programming throughout the rest of the week, join the Second Captains World Service. There’s no contracts, no hidden fees and shows can be listened to on all good podcast apps, on Spotify or through our website. It’s independent, commercial-free and member-led with feature interviews, breaking news, Ken’s Football Show, The Politics Podcast, and lots of added extras. You’ll also be supporting the development of our longer-form work, such as our international series’  ‘Where Is George Gibney?’ and Stakeknife.

We’re asking Gavin Cooney around to ours to watch Ireland v Switzerland – we’ll then be recording straight after. pic.twitter.com/lY91IQibIE

— Second Captains (@SecondCaptains) November 18, 2025