The BBC and ITV have been forward-thinking in their coverage of the World Cup this year, with both channels inviting female guests into the studio to provide match analysis.
However, just three days into the tournament, the move has thrown up its first major controversy.
During today’s match between Costa Rica and Serbia, a number of viewers were up in arms over the behaviour of pundit and former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.
Following his reaction to comments made by women’s footballer Eni Aluko, fans berated him on social media, calling him “awful” and “misogynist”.
Eni, 31, has made 102 appearances for the England team, scoring 33 goals, so it’s fair to say that she knows a thing or two about football.
That was evident as she waxed lyrical about the group E game, which Serbia won 1-0.
The Juventus striker pointed out that Costa Rica’s World Cup chances could be hampered by the fact that they don’t score a lot of goals.
And that’s when Evra, 37, appeared to score an OWN goal by clapping Eni’s comments and saying: “Very good.”
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That prompted an instant backlash on social media, with viewers slamming the French footballer for what they perceived to be a “sexist” reaction.
One tweeted: “Canny bit of patronising [expletive] from Patrice Evra there on Eni Aluko (102 England caps, 33 goals).
“She gives a good analysis of Costa Rica, and Evra claps, saying well done, then continues further on: ‘Oh man, she knows more than us.’ Would he have said that to another male ex-pro?”
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Another ranted: “Some peak, peak sexism from Patrice Evra on ITV right now – incredible.”
And a third said: “Patrice Evra showing surprise and actually *clapping* Eni Aluko’s analysis… awful, patronising.”
To her credit, Eni didn’t seem too riled by the comments, and continued like the professional she is.
As for Patrice Evra, he might have some grovelling to do next time they work together…
What did you think of Patrice Evra’s reaction? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know!