TVTV NewsFIFA World CupFIFA World Cup viewers weren't impressed as they tuned in to watch the first semi-final19:57, 14 Jul 2026Updated 20:26, 14 Jul 2026Viewers of the World Cup 2026 found themselves issuing the same complaints.Mark Pougatch hosted ITV's coverage of the first semi-final between France and Spain on Tuesday (July 14).The French are looking to reach their third successive final, having finished as runners-up to Argentina in 2022 and lifted the trophy in 2018. Meanwhile, Spain have reached their first World Cup semi-final since they won the tournament in 2010 after a 2-1 victory over Belgium.Ahead of kick-off at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Mark was joined in the Brooklyn studio by Ian Wright, Gary Neville, Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira to discuss France and Spain's chances.They were soon joined by Succession star Brian Cox, who opened up about the tournament and his acting career.However, many viewers were left issuing as the same complaints, as they didn't understand why the 80-year-old actor was appearing during the semi-final build-up."ITV attitude to football really sucks. It's World Cup semi final time! So let's bring a random actor on the panel," one person wrote on X (formerly Twitter).Another added: "Why have ITV got Brian Cox on the build up to the France v Spain World Cup semi-final?" while a third said: "Who do we need to hear from in the build up to a massive semi final. Brian Cox wtf."A fourth fan echoed the sentiment, saying: "Brian Cox doing pre-game punditry for a World Cup semi final? Absolutely not," with someone else sharing: "Brian Cox really? A World Cup semi final and we've got some actor on?"During the interview, another frustrated viewer asked: "Is there anywhere else I can watch this game?"Someone else wrote: "Why have ITV taken Brian Cox hostage and forced him to talk about football? Ridiculous," with another sharing: "Utterly pointless interview with Brian Cox."Despite the flurry of complaints, a number of other viewers were delighted to see Brian appearing in the studio."Brian Cox on the panel, how fun and random," one person wrote, with another adding: "Brian Cox punditry is something I didn't know I needed."Article continues belowA third said: "Brian Cox the legend on ITV for the France vs Spain SEMI FINAL. Respect."Coverage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 airs on BBC and ITVChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌FIFA World CupITV