Chinese announcer apologizes for his World Cup commentary

[Kire]

Chinese announcer apologizes for his World Cup commentary

By Tim Johnson

McClatchy Newspapers
(MCT)

BEIJING - The "hysterical" ranting of China's most popular soccer commentator on live television during the broadcast of a World Cup match this week has sparked an outpouring of emotion in a nation where strongly felt opinions usually are sublimated.

Popular soccer commentator Huang Jianxiang lost his cool during a match between Italy and Australia, shouting himself hoarse in an outburst seen by millions of people.

"Italy is victorious! Long live Italy! . . . Great Italy!" Huang shrieked during the match broadcast by state-run China Central Television early Tuesday morning as Italy won the game on a dramatic penalty kick. "I don't like the Australian team," he shouted, adding with glee that it "should go home."

During key parts of the match, Huang issued a prolonged pro-Italy wail that made Democratic presidential contender Howard Dean's "I have a scream" speech during the 2004 campaign sound wan in comparison.

More: http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/14923267.htm