BBC make England Women's World Cup blunder during Spain and Sweden clash

BBC Women's World Cup Spain Sweden

BBC have made a blunder during Women's World Cup clash between Spain and Sweden

PA
Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 15/08/2023

- 10:55

England players' images were used despite none of them featuring in the match

The BBC have made a blunder while covering the Women's World Cup clash between Spain and Sweden on Tuesday morning.

As players from both teams were warming up, the graphics showing line-ups.


Except they weren't accurate because instead of using the correct photos for each individual player, the BBC used pictures of England's Lionesses instead.

The broadcaster has been in the spotlight for its coverage of the tournament so far.

BBC Women's World Cup

The BBC used England pictures when showing Spain's line up for Women's World Cup clash

PA

Many fans have been umimpressed by the studio used by presenters and pundits because, unlike the men's World Cup at the tail end of last year, it's all being done via green screen.

And the BBC were also forced to apologise for asking Morocco captain Ghizlane Chebbak whether there were any gay players in her team.

A reporter asked: "In Morocco, it’s illegal to have a gay relationship.

"Do you have any gay players in your squad and what’s life like for them in Morocco?"

Chebbak looked stunned by the question and made it clear she wouldn't be answering.

"Sorry, this is a very political question, so we’ll just stick to questions relating to football," the moderator stepped in saying.

Yet the reporter wouldn't let that slide and responded by stating: "No, it’s not political.

"It’s about people, it’s got nothing to do with politics.

"Please let her answer the question."

A BBC spokesperson later said: "We recognise that the question was inappropriate.

"We had no intention to cause any harm or distress."

Commentator Jonathan Pearce also faced criticism after he was heard mumbling over the French national anthem.

The BBC didn't immediately apologise for their latest gaffe.

The Sweden line-up showed the images of Mary Earps, Lucy Bronze, Millie Bright, Alex Greenwood, and Jess Carter at the back.

Georgia Stanway, Keira Walsh, Lauren James, Chloe Kelly, Rachel Daly and Lauren Hemp's images were also included.

Meanwhile, England are gearing up for their own Women's World Cup semi-final.

The Lionesses will face off against hosts Australia on Wednesday morning.

And England boss Sarina Wiegman has insisted the Aussies aren't underdogs, despite their best attempts to play down their chances.

"I don’t think Australia are the underdog, they are playing at home and the stadium will be very full," stated the 53-year-old, whose side have won all five of their matches so far.

"There’s two teams that are very strong and have grown into the tournament, it’s going to be very tight and competitive.

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BBC Women's World Cup

The BBC are yet to apologise for making World Cup blunder​

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"We approach the game as any other game, we prepare how we want to play and analyse our opponent really well so we can hopefully expose some weaknesses."

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