Arab Commentators Turn 2026 World Cup Goals Into Viral Poetry

1 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 27

A record number of Middle Eastern teams at the 2026 World Cup is drawing bigger regional audiences, with Arab commentators emerging as a main attraction alongside the matches.
Amer al-Khudhiri’s 90-second ode to Cristiano Ronaldo’s first goal against Uzbekistan captured the style—dramatic, improvised and emotionally charged rather than clinical play-by-play.
Fans from Lebanon to the Gulf say the commentary heightens suspense and pulls in even casual viewers, while clips spread online as much for the words as for the goals.
Lionel Messi’s record 17th World Cup goal against Austria drew a similarly grand monologue from Hassan al-Aidarous, underscoring how broadcasters turn key moments into performances.
That approach reflects Arabic’s long oral and poetic tradition, giving voices like Issam Chaouali and Hafid Derradji a nostalgic pull that many fans see as central to World Cup viewing.