Football fans have launched a scathing attack on TNT Sports' coverage of the FA Cup third round, branding their flagship TNT Goals Show "garbage" and a "farce".
The broadcaster, which holds the lead rights for the competition this season, faced a barrage of complaints on social media over its studio presentation of Saturday's early and 3pm kick-offs.
Fan Fury on Social Media
Supporters took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice their intense dissatisfaction with the show's format and presentation. A common complaint was that the punditry panel, consisting of Fara Williams, Steve McManaman, and Kevin Nolan alongside host Matt Smith, constantly talked over one another while live match action played on screen.
One furious viewer posted: "TNT’s Goals Show is possibly the worst football-adjacent show I’ve ever seen. Not a clue what the pundits are talking about as I’m yet to hear one not talk over another."
Another added: "This TNT FA cup goals show is awful, just pundits no one cares about shouting over each other." Further criticism labelled the broadcast "like play time" and a disjointed experience where "you don't see them as they cut from game to game."
The Magic of the Cup Overshadowed
The negative reaction overshadowed what was a historic weekend in the FA Cup, famed for its giant-killing drama. The third round, which saw Premier League and Championship clubs enter the fray, produced a monumental shock.
National League North side Macclesfield stunned holders Crystal Palace, delivering one of the competition's greatest ever upsets. While this result epitomised the magic of the cup, the conversation was dominated by the poor reception to TNT's coverage.
The broadcaster's four-year deal with the FA, announced in February 2024, grants it exclusive live rights from the first round to the final. Selected matches, including Macclesfield's famous victory, are also simulcast free-to-air on the BBC.
What's Next for TNT's Coverage?
The strong backlash presents an early challenge for TNT Sports in its new role as the primary FA Cup broadcaster. Fans explicitly compared the Goals Show unfavourably to the channel's coverage of the UEFA Champions League, demanding a more coherent format focused on match action.
With several rounds remaining in the competition, pressure will mount on the production team to address viewer concerns and refine the presentation. The focus will now shift to whether TNT can adapt its approach to better serve a passionate and vocal football audience disappointed by the third-round offering.
