Every team in the World Cup has completed their matches. Assessments have been made, opinions formed, and paths through the knockout stages planned.

While some highly-rated teams have disappointed, unexpected teams have impressed, and prominent players like Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane, and Lionel Messi have showcased their skills. The competition for viewership between BBC and ITV is ongoing, with ITV currently leading in peak audience numbers, particularly during England’s thrilling victory over Croatia.

Despite ITV’s initial success, the BBC is expected to bounce back with more prime picks in the upcoming knockout rounds. Viewership trends show a shift towards online platforms like iPlayer and social media highlights for the BBC.

However, one notable issue for the BBC has been the lukewarm reception to Olivier Giroud, a former football star turned pundit. Social media has been critical of Giroud’s analysis, which has been described as dull and lacking depth.

Giroud, despite being a prolific goal scorer for France, has struggled to provide insightful commentary compared to seasoned pundits like Wayne Rooney and Micah Richards. Punditry is a challenging skill that requires preparation and experience, as emphasized by industry experts.

The presence of coaches like Emma Hayes and Ange Postecoglou on ITV has brought valuable insights into player mindsets and tactical aspects of the game. The BBC has also enlisted Thomas Frank for his coaching expertise, highlighting the importance of knowledgeable pundits in sports broadcasting.

In the evolving landscape of football punditry, it is evident that experience and training play a crucial role in delivering engaging and informative analysis. As Giroud navigates his new role, the expectations for him and other player-turned-pundits remain high, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and learning in the field.