This Morning's Wednesday episode was dedicated almost entirely to England's FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina, with viewers branding the coverage 'overkill' and switching off.
World Cup Takeover
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is currently underway, and on Wednesday 15 July, England faces Argentina in the semi-finals in Atlanta. Consequently, Wednesday's programme centred entirely on England and the World Cup.
The episode featured everything from a brass band performing the World Cup football anthem Three Lions to a 'real-life' witch forecasting the score and casting a manifestation spell, with hosts Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley joining in live on air.
Viewer Backlash
While football fans excitedly prepared for the match, This Morning viewers complained about excessive football content and desired standard news coverage. Taking to Twitter, now X, one person said: "I wonder how many viewers they've lost with the huge amount of football overkill they've been ramming down our throats throughout the summer #thismorning."
A different viewer wrote: "Ok so this is too much now! #thismorning" while another fan put: "I never thought I'd say this, but thank god for adverts. We all need a break from that cringefest. #ThisMorning." Another show watcher commented: "I wonder how the show will be tomorrow if #England lose lol #thismorning" to which a different fan wrote: "#thismorning love the World Cup and England but why do they have to be so cringe on the show."
Hosts' Summer Break
This comes as This Morning hosts Ben and Cat are gearing up for their summer break from the ITV show. This week marks their final episodes until September, when they will return to presenting duties.
Weather Concerns
It also comes as England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina will kick off as scheduled despite severe weather warnings issued for Atlanta. The Three Lions face Lionel Messi and the reigning world champions at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday evening, with a place in Sunday's World Cup final against Spain at stake.
However, thunderstorms and heavy rain are forecast to hit the Georgia city throughout the day, prompting concerns that the weather could disrupt the eagerly anticipated clash. Forecasters have warned of thunderstorms, lightning and the risk of flash flooding in the Atlanta area, with the National Weather Service expecting further showers and storms to develop later in the day.
This Morning continues on weekdays at 10am on ITV and ITV X.
