England’s final group stage match at Euro 2024 against Slovenia captivated millions of viewers, with both BBC and ITV reporting strong TV figures. The highly anticipated clash, which ended in a goalless draw, kept fans on the edge of their seats as England secured their place in the knockout stages.
The BBC emerged as the preferred broadcaster for the match, attracting a peak audience of 13.1 million viewers. ITV, which also aired the game, recorded a peak of 8.8 million, showcasing the nation’s unwavering interest in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
Broadcasting Battle: BBC vs ITV
The duel between BBC and ITV for viewership dominance highlighted the competitive nature of sports broadcasting. While the BBC’s coverage, led by Gary Lineker, drew a larger crowd, ITV’s presentation, featuring Mark Pougatch, still pulled in significant numbers.
Analysts suggest that the BBC’s lack of ad breaks and its reputation for high-quality punditry may have contributed to its edge over ITV. However, both networks benefited from the national team’s enduring appeal.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The match sparked lively debates on social media, with fans divided over England’s performance. While some praised the team’s defensive solidity, others expressed frustration at the lack of attacking flair.
Despite the mixed reactions, the TV figures underscore football’s status as the UK’s most-watched sport, with major tournaments consistently drawing massive audiences.
Looking Ahead: Knockout Stages
With England progressing to the last 16, broadcasters are gearing up for even higher viewership in the knockout rounds. The BBC and ITV will continue to share coverage, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action.
As the tournament heats up, all eyes will be on whether England can finally bring football home—and how many millions will be watching.
