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Zlatan Ibrahimovic takes jabs at Alexi Lalas during World Cup coverage

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 5:39 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Zlatan Ibrahimovic takes jabs at Alexi Lalas during World Cup coverage
Summary

During Fox Sports' pregame analysis ahead of the USA vs. Australia match, Alexi Lalas was absent. The studio featured Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, whose tense dynamic with Lalas has become public. Ibrahimovic humorously referenced Lalas’ absence, and the pair kept the ball away from him during studio drills. Their exchanges underscore the ongoing tension between Lalas and Ibrahimovic. Ibrahimovic recently teased Lalas on social media, further amplifying the rivalry as the World Cup continues.

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By the Numbers
  • •Alexi Lalas did not appear in the pregame studio for USA's match.
  • •Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry engaged in playful banter regarding Lalas.
  • •Ibrahimovic stated 'America, you're welcome' during a studio segment.
  • •Tension between Lalas and Ibrahimovic highlights contrasting styles and opinions.
  • •The World Cup matchup of USA vs. Australia is currently taking place.
Latest Updates
  • 5:39 PMYahoo Sports — Alexi Lalas missing from USA World Cup pregame. Zlatan says, 'America, you're welcome'
  • 5:39 PMUSA Today — Alexi Lalas missing from USA World Cup pregame. Zlatan says, 'America, you're welcome' - USA Today
What they're saying
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It's safe to say the dynamic of Fox Sports' World Cup studio analysts Thierry Henry, Zlatan Ibrahmiovic and Alexi Lalas has been icy.

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It's safe to say the dynamic of Fox Sports' World Cup studio analysts Thierry Henry, Zlatan Ibrahmiovic and Alexi Lalas has been icy.

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Soccer

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