RTS commentator's slip-up draws fire after Partizan's 3:0 win
RTS commentator said a phrase interpreted as "What a shame!" during a key defensive moment, stirring a storm on Serbian social media after Partizan beat Tobol 3:0.
An unexpected broadcasting slip-up on Serbian public television attracted attention after Partizan's 3:0 victory over Tobol in the Conference League qualifiers: during a dangerous Tobol attack a commentator on RTS shouted what sounded like "What a shame!" instead of a word expressing relief.
The Belgrade club moved a big step closer to the play-off round after the 3:0 win over Tobol.
During one threatening move by the visitors, when Tobol players looked set to seriously endanger goalkeeper Miloš Krunić's goal, an imprecise pass destroyed the attack and allowed Partizan's defence to clear the danger.
Commenting on the clearance, the RTS commentator reportedly cried out "What a shame!" instead of an exclamation meaning relief — "Lucky!" — and later offered what came across as a sarcastic apology. The choice of words has been described as a serious gaffe rather than an accidental slip.
The mistake has not gone unnoticed in Serbia, where critics note the sensitive relationship between media and the authorities led by President Vučić and the prominence of Red Star, which some say leaves Partizan in an uneasy position. The incident fuelled fresh complaints on social networks about how the two Belgrade clubs are covered by national media.
Social media has been boiling for a second day; a widely shared tweet summed up the mood: "Strajnić made everyone laugh again!" — a clip that was circulated across platforms and prompted strong reactions from Partizan supporters.
Photo: press material from the event
