The art of football commentary has long been a cherished aspect of the sport, with many fans growing up listening to the voices of iconic commentators who brought charm and excitement to matches. In Tunisia, however, fans have expressed disappointment with the current crop of commentators, describing their style as unattractive, loud, and irritating. According to an article in La Presse de Tunisie, dated September 21, 2026, the issue has become so severe that fans are now preferring to watch European football matches with foreign commentators.
The article, penned by Rafik El Herguem, notes that the problem lies not only with the commentators' voices but also with their approach to commentary. Many Tunisian commentators have been criticized for relying on clichés, shouting, and providing excessive information about players and coaches. This style has been likened to that of commentators from Gulf countries, which has been met with widespread criticism. El Herguem argues that this approach is not only annoying but also detracts from the viewing experience.
One of the main issues with Tunisian commentators, according to El Herguem, is their failure to evolve and adapt to modern commentary styles. Despite having years of experience, many commentators have stagnated, clinging to outdated approaches and refusing to adopt more sophisticated and nuanced methods. This has resulted in a homogenization of commentary styles, with many commentators sounding similar and lacking a unique voice or perspective.
The impact of poor commentary on the viewing experience cannot be overstated. Many fans have reported turning down the volume or switching off matches due to the irritating style of local commentators. This has led to a situation where fans are now seeking out alternative sources for their football fix, including watching European matches with foreign commentators. The loss of charm and passion that commentators once brought to the sport is also being lamented.
El Herguem argues that commentators need to take a step back and reevaluate their approach. He suggests that they should focus on providing insightful and thoughtful commentary, rather than simply shouting and trying to be loud. This can be achieved by taking a cue from European commentators, who often take a more measured and spontaneous approach to commentary.
The issue of bias and errors in commentary has also been raised. Many commentators have been accused of displaying partisan attitudes and making mistakes when it comes to player names and other factual information. This has further eroded the credibility of local commentators and reinforced the perception that they are out of touch with the needs and expectations of fans.
Ultimately, the situation highlights the need for a change in the way football commentary is approached in Tunisia. By adopting more sophisticated and nuanced styles, commentators can help to restore the charm and passion of the sport. As El Herguem notes, this will require a concerted effort from commentators to adapt and evolve, but the payoff will be well worth it for fans and the sport as a whole.
Key points
- Tunisian sports fans are expressing frustration with local football commentators, citing their poor style and lack of sophistication.
