Détails de l’article

The phenomenon of sports commentary, especially in the context of international football, extends beyond mere game narration, exploring narrative construction and the representation of collective identities. This study examines the linguistic and narrative strategies used by Peter Drury, a renowned sports commentator, during the Qatar 2022 World Cup matches of Morocco vs. Portugal and Cameroon vs. Brazil. The research aims to unravel how Drury crafts narratives that illuminate the performances of two African teams against their European and South American counterparts, respectively. Through discourse analysis and critical discourse analysis, supplemented by insights from sports sociology and media studies, the paper examines Drury’s commentary to understand how it reflects and molds broader social and cultural identities. The findings reveal that Drury’s commentary not only serves to narrate the unfolding events but also actively constructs a narrative that encapsulates themes of underdog triumph, national pride, and historic achievements, thereby contributing to the collective memory and identity of the teams and nations involved. This study underscores the significant role sports commentary plays in shaping narratives that transcend the sports field, influencing perceptions, and fostering a shared sense of community and identity among global audiences.