Liam Duckstein
ITV‘s 2026 World Cup coverage stumbled on its opening night after presenter Semra Hunter mistakenly referred to Sweden head coach Graham Potter as former England manager Sir Gareth Southgate during a live broadcast.
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The tournament opened on Thursday night with co-hosts Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0 in a match that produced three red cards, while South Korea came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 2-1. Both fixtures aired on ITV1.
Hunter was commentating on footage of Potter wearing a cowboy hat during an open training session in Texas — a clip that had already gone viral — when the error occurred.
“Some people are really immersing themselves in American culture, really enjoying themselves, enjoying everything American culture has to offer. Sweden coach Gareth Southgate… well he’s decided to tell the world there’s a new sheriff in town!”
Viewers caught the mistake immediately and took to social media.
“‘Gareth Southgate‘? ITV is this really the best you can do?” — Ben Hunt on X.
“I thought I misheard this live! Haha… now I know I’m not going mad. Embarrassing!” — Jamie.
“Looks like a daytime tv show have tried to do a piece about the football.” — Steve Bradshaw.
“Thought that the whole ITV coverage was shockingly poor.” — John.
“Oh dear…. ! I’m sure they will issue a correction in time, but embarrassing not recognising Potter!” — Rob.
Southgate departed as England manager shortly after the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain and plays no role at this tournament.
Potter, by contrast, is one of the more prominent coaches at the 2026 World Cup. He previously managed Brighton, Chelsea, and West Ham in the Premier League before taking the Sweden job last October. He guided the side through the play-offs to reach the finals, with a squad that includes Liverpool striker Alexander Isak and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres.
Sweden open their World Cup campaign on Monday, June 15, against Tunisia. Follow TipsGG for full coverage, analysis, and betting insights throughout the tournament.
Read also: 2026 World Cup Betting Digest Day 2: Canada vs Bosnia & Herzegovina, USA vs Paraguay