Throughout the 2026 World Cup, we explained a new football phrase every day on our podcast including:

• to sink an opponent (to defeat them)
• a brace (scoring two goals)
• stoppage time (extra time added at the end of a half)
• to come off the bench to score (a substitute scoring a goal)
• a stunner (an amazing goal)

You can find the full collection in our World Cup Language Glossary.

We'd love your help with two things:

1. Translate: Pick a phrase and tell us how you'd say it in your own language. Is it a direct translation, or a completely different expression? For example, in Spanish, "to score a brace" might be "anotar un doblete."

2. Use: Write your own sentence using one of the phrases. It could be about a match you watched, your favourite team, or anything you like. For example: "My team completely swept aside their local rivals last weekend."

Reply below with as many phrases as you like - and feel free to reply to other people's posts too.

Thank you

Damian and Damon Learn English Through Football

1. How well do you think you did in this listening?
2. Could you understand the main ideas?
3. How much detail could you understand?
4. Would you be able to explain some of the main points to someone else?

The preposition 'in' is used here to help us understand about where the pass went. To slide someone in means that one player has given another player a pass and they are through on goal; they have a chance to shoot. 

Do you know what the phrasal verb 'to call up' means? How do we use it in a sentence? How is this said in another language?

I think football helps people learn English naturally. Fans often learn words like “goal”, “penalty”, “referee”, and “extra time” while watching games. They also hear common expressions such as “What a save!” or “What a fantastic goal!” These phrases are easy to remember because they are connected to exciting moments.

Another good thing is that football creates conversations between people from different countries. During World Cup 2026, supporters will communicate online and in stadiums using English as an international language. This makes learning more practical and fun.

Personally, I improve my English by watching football highlights, reading match reports, and following football players on social media. It feels easier than studying grammar from textbooks all the time.

In my opinion, the 2026 World Cup will not only unite football fans but also help many people become more confident English speakers.