Tensions between Fox's World Cup analysts, including Zlatan Ibrahimović and Alexi Lalas, have escalated as the network awarded Ibrahimović a mock 'Employee of the Month' honor.
The divide between former U.S. player Lalas and his European counterparts, particularly Ibrahimović and Thierry Henry, has been a recurring theme during Fox's tournament coverage. The European analysts have frequently clashed with Lalas, often referencing their own playing careers as more prestigious and dismissing his game analyses.
Ibrahimović notably remarked, "You're welcome, America," live on air when Lalas was moved from the studio for the second United States World Cup game. The mock award, presented by anchor Rebecca Lowe after nearly two weeks of Ibrahimović's role, acknowledged his contributions.
Upon receiving the award, Ibrahimović stood with Henry and Lalas and, holding the award, told Lalas, "I think you never got this." He continued, "I just want to thank you. This was a team effort and I'm very proud and happy and this is only after one week, imagine after a couple. Oh my god. Alexi, you like it?" Lalas responded, "I've never seen one before. This is incredible."
This exchange followed an earlier instance where Lalas appeared to gain an advantage in the banter. During a recent World Cup broadcast, Ibrahimović made a lighthearted jab at host Rebecca Lowe's attire, linking it to Lalas by saying, "Rebecca, you look like you dressed for a funeral. Alexi is alive, don't worry." After Lowe and Henry reacted awkwardly, Lalas retorted to Ibrahimović's cream suit, "You look like you should be welcoming people to Fantasy Island." The reference to the 1970s and 80s television drama, where characters often wore white suits, was a jab at Ibrahimović's appearance.
Some viewers have reportedly found the on-air roasts entertaining, with one social media user commenting, "Whoever brought these commentators together to roast one another on air is brilliant. Give that person a raise."
Lalas also humorously stated he had to "carry the show" when reintroduced to the panel after his trip to Seattle, eliciting laughter from Henry and Ibrahimović.
The World Cup is continuing with simultaneous final group stage games. On Wednesday, Switzerland will play Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina will face Qatar in Group B at 3 p.m. ET. Group C will conclude with matches between Morocco and Haiti, and Scotland and Brazil at 8 p.m. ET.