In the 2024 season, Mexico’s Azteca Deportes Network began broadcasting Allsvenskan, Sweden’s top football league. Since then, more and more people in Mexico have discovered and become fans of the Swedish league.
“I’m very impressed by the level of play and the atmosphere at the stadiums — not to mention the history of the clubs. It’s an exciting league with many young, talented players who later stand out in bigger European clubs,” says Giancarlo Garcia, commentator for Azteca Deportes Network.
Giancarlo Garcia doesn’t know exactly how big the interest has become. As a commentator, he doesn’t have access to viewership numbers, but he says that the videos shared on social media have been well received and embraced. Garcia himself loves Allsvenskan.
“I usually commentate on one match every weekend. I love doing it. Allsvenskan is a physical league. The game is fast. There are big differences compared to the Mexican league. In Sweden, you have to run every second as if it were your last to win the ball back.”
“Also, the players in Sweden are much younger than in Mexico, where many debut around 23–24 years old. In Sweden, more young players are given opportunities.”
Giancarlo Garcia also runs a private social media account where he posts match clips from Azteca Deportes Network’s broadcasts.
“I’ve received nice comments from Swedish fans on social media when I post there, and I really like that. My favorite player right now is Djurgården’s August Priske, or ‘Jesus Priskus,’ as the supporters call him. He’s on fire right now.”
“I’ve noticed a difference between how Swedish and Mexican commentators react when a goal is scored — and Swedes love the Mexican style with the long ‘gooooooooooool!’” Garcia laughs.
At the time of writing, four rounds remain in the Allsvenskan season. An exciting and dramatic finish awaits this fall.
“I love watching Allsvenskan. There are still many big matches to be played. The level of the clubs, the level of the players — and the fact that a club like Mjällby could win for the first time ever — it’s going to be amazing to commentate on.”
His dream is to one day visit Sweden to commentate on a match live at a stadium.
“It would be fantastic to do that in the future. It’s always better to commentate in person at the stadium. The atmosphere is different, of course. I think Swedish fans are more passionate than here in Mexico. You have incredible tifos and so much color in the stands.”
“I’d say both our peoples love football, are humble, and love their clubs. When I commentate a goal, I can see from the comments that Swedes love it — no matter which team scores. Football unites us, Mexico and Sweden,” concludes Giancarlo Garcia.
