Emma Hayes taunts the trolls
Emma Hayes, one of Britain’s most successful coaches with seven WSL titles at Chelsea and Olympic gold with the USA women’s team, has faced misogynistic abuse online despite her expertise. During her appearance with a "tactics chalkboard," many viewers praised her insight, but some criticized her appearance and the fact she presented from a kitchen. Hayes responded by wearing a jacket emblazoned with the feminist slogan:
“She will change the world.”
She also remarked dryly to viewers:
“Let’s focus on the game. I know that’s a challenge for some of us at home.”
Gary Lineker switches sides
Former BBC presenter Gary Lineker has embraced his new role working for Netflix in the US, openly criticizing his former employer for broadcasting from "a green box in Salford" and calling it "soulless." However, he made a surprise return to free-to-air TV as a pundit during ITV’s coverage of Germany vs Côte d’Ivoire. Lineker even made a humorous cameo as the main anchor, greeting viewers with:
“Thank you for joining us on ITV for this one. Another day, another game, another channel.”
Host Laura Woods quickly interrupted, saying:
“Gary, that’s my job!”
To which Lineker replied:
“Sorry. Old habits.”
Tidy finish
Japanese supporters have won admiration by remaining after matches to clean the stadiums. Instead of leaving immediately at the final whistle, they collect rubbish in bin liners, a practice rooted in Shinto beliefs that everyday objects are spiritual and deserve respect, expressed in the saying:
“A bird leaves nothing behind.”
This gesture has been widely praised as an example of sporting spirit. Even players have followed suit; after their 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, the team reportedly left their dressing room spotless without being asked. The hosts are welcome back anytime.
Professional fowl
While Zayu the jaguar is the official FIFA mascot for co-host Mexico, the tournament’s animal star has been Merlin, a duck sporting a miniature Mexico shirt and customized socks. Merlin went viral after waddling with jubilant fans following Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa in the opening match.
Merlin has since appeared alongside Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum, quacking during her morning press conference. Despite his newfound fame, Merlin remains calm and happily poses for selfies.
Pundit calls James Corden a ‘wanker’
US pundit Alexi Lalas has drawn criticism for his loud and often uninformed opinions. His Fox Sports colleagues Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović seem to view, even during an in-studio kickabout. Notably, after a trailer for "After Hours With James Corden," Lalas referred to Corden as a
“full-kit wanker”
live on air, apparently unaware of the British slang’s meaning. Henry’s reaction was notably stunned.
Hate for hydration breaks
FIFA’s introduction of hydration breaks midway through each half, intended for player welfare, has been widely unpopular. Fans jeer these interruptions for disrupting the game’s flow, especially when it rains during matches. Many suspect the breaks are a cynical attempt to create more advertising slots by dividing football into quarters.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who implemented the measure, has also been heavily booed and whistled whenever shown on the stadium’s big screen, with fans expressing their displeasure.
Soggy not sorry
Belgium’s team huddle during their opening match against Egypt was unfortunately positioned under active pitch sprinklers. This resulted in head coach Rudi Garcia becoming thoroughly soaked, spending the next 20 minutes drenched, while his players found it difficult to take his instructions seriously.
Veteran keeper breaks the internet
The tournament’s first cult hero emerged unexpectedly: Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper for World Cup debutants Cape Verde. Facing Spain, ranked 65 places above them, Vozinha made a series of spectacular saves to keep a clean sheet, helping Cape Verde secure a shock 0-0 draw against the European champions.
At the final whistle, Vozinha was named man of the match and broke down in tears on the pitch. He explained:
“I cried because I grew up with my grandparents and unfortunately they died a few years ago. I also cried because my mum didn’t manage to make it because of the visa costs.”
Though his family could not be present, fans worldwide showed their support. His Instagram following surged overnight from 40,000 to over 200,000.
Right up our Ally
ITV’s co-commentary team has been a mixed experience. While Lee Dixon’s downbeat style can dampen enthusiasm, Ally McCoist offers humor, enthusiasm, and insight, all delivered in his distinctive Lanarkshire accent. McCoist’s popularity has even inspired his own drinking game, though participants are warned it can lead to severe intoxication.
‘Mum, I hate having my photo taken’
The England squad’s official FIFA photos have generated amusement when shown on-screen during starting lineup announcements. Declan Rice appears sunburnt, Dean Henderson gives a sinister side-eye, and winger Anthony Gordon’s portrait has been compared on Mock the Week’s World Cup special to Princess Diana, Clare Balding, a “lesbian nana,” and “the photo you’d put on the front of an order of service for an auntie’s funeral.”
Full-back Reece James has been mocked for standing stiffly with arms by his side, likened to a table football figurine or a shy schoolboy called downstairs to show off his new England kit to his grandmother.
Fries with that?
Although it was a warm-up match before the tournament officially began, the England vs Costa Rica friendly provided the first notable talking point. Observers noted that North American spectators seemed unfamiliar with football etiquette, as some were seen dining alfresco at tables in the front row during the match. This led to a humorous moment when a misdirected clearance landed in a spectator’s soup as Declan Rice prepared to take a corner.
