
via Imago
Credit: Imago

via Imago
Credit: Imago
It is with great sadness that we report the passing of legendary soccer commentator John Motson. The Englishman was a fixture on BBC soccer broadcasts for nearly five decades. His work provided the soundtrack to some of the most iconic moments in the sport and one of them being the iconic David Beckham free-kick goal.
Motson sadly passed away at the age of 77 on 23rd February. Motson will perhaps be best remembered for his work on the 2001 England-Greece World Cup qualifying match. England needed at least a draw to qualify for the World Cup. However, things weren’t going England’s way as they were down 2-1 with the match almost coming to an end.
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John Motson’s legendary commentary on David Beckham
In the 93rd minute, captain David Beckham stepped up to take a free kick. Beckham, under pressure, scored the free-kick sending England into the World Cup. What made this moment extra special was the marvelous commentary work from the late John Moston who just added greatness to this awesome moment.
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“Everybody bar the Greece supporters praying for a goal,” Motson began. “Beckham to take. The 93rd-minute at Old Trafford.” As the ball went behind the keeper, Motson then just blew the roof with his passionate commentary.
“Beckhammmm. Yes, Yes, he’s done it! David Beckham! Fantastic! IT’s 2-2 and England may still be going to the World Cup automatically! It’s a fantastic ending to a very, very poor performance. And he’s a lucky manager and he deserves the goal because Beckham has virtually played Greece on his own!,” so iconic it was.
Fans recall the legendary career of Motson
John Motson was an icon in the world of sports commentary, and his voice and insight were appreciated by thousands of fans. Although the recent news of his passing is truly heartbreaking, fans are fondly remembering the timeless moments they shared with him through his commentaries. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
Here are some of the reactions from the fans:
Gutted, the voice of football for me growing up
— Markb1980 (@busby1980) February 23, 2023
Football just lost another legend of the game. RIP John Motson. https://t.co/aWxqZaqhZG
— Christopher (@Deyesy) February 23, 2023
RIP Motty. One of the best voices in UK Sporting history. And the 1st one from the UK I remember hearing. Such an iconic figure. Many great moments and lines. This one stings. https://t.co/FjxCMazOH1
— Seth Eaves 🏴☠️ (@sportsjunkie94) February 23, 2023
Sad news indeed. A true soundtrack voice of which there are now so few.
Set a high standard that has proved difficult for many to achieve since.
Was also a very good radio commentator, often overlooked when people talk about his work. https://t.co/B3aC82rVGe
— Paul W Mitchell (@pwmcomms) February 23, 2023
The undisputed greatest football commentator of all time. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/4cxo1LGRZY https://t.co/gCZ3q2xNZf
— PMLEGEND™ Esq.🇯🇲👨🏾⚖️🌹🅴 (@PMLEGEND) February 23, 2023
A legend of the game and the voice for some of its most iconic moments.
Vale. https://t.co/40EBjUZw29
— Joey Lynch (@joeylynchy) February 23, 2023
Iconic voice of our upbringing. Rest in Peace Motty. https://t.co/cOX4FYAZsv
— Alex (@ajg8701) February 23, 2023
A voice synonymous with football and one that made me get into the game.
Legend is a term that gets thrown around all too frequently, but it’s fitting for John Motson. RIP. https://t.co/qgLjpumcOz
— George Gamble (@CGeorgeGamble) February 23, 2023
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"they think it's all over, it is now" definitely wasn't his most famous line #JohnMotsonRIP
— Anti Growth Coalition (now the LWEE) (@AntiGrowthCoa) February 23, 2023
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Motson’s commentary work was truly exemplary. Also, he had a gift for adding excitement and drama to even the most ordinary of matches. What are your memories of John Motson’s commentary? Let us know in the comments.
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