BBC co-commentator Danny Murphy went viral during the World Cup round of 32 tie between the Ivory Coast and Norway when he unexpectedly opened up about his missing cat, Bob
Matthew Abbott
13:09, 01 Jul 2026
Danny Murphy bizarrely spoke about his lost cat on Tuesday
Danny Murphy bizarrely spoke about his lost cat on Tuesday(Image: BBC)
Danny Murphy made an unusual tribute to his cat Bob while providing commentary during the World Cup round of 32 clash between the Ivory Coast and Norway.
Following a hydration interval, the co-commentator shared that his pet had disappeared after leaping into the rear of a Royal Mail vehicle. The introduction of Oscar Bobb as a second-half substitute triggered Murphy's recollection of the personal incident.
Norway was ahead 1-0 in the World Cup clash when it introduced the Fulham player in place of former Crystal Palace forward Alexander Sorloth. Murphy, who played 249 games for Liverpool, seized upon a quiet moment in proceedings to discuss the cat.
Lead commentator Steve Bower appeared less than enthused. Bobb took possession almost instantly upon his introduction, prompting Bower to remark: "Here's Bobb's first involvement."
Following a 10-second interval as Norway launched an unsuccessful long ball, Murphy announced: "I used to have a cat called Bob."
Bower replied: "The game's not that bad," though his colleague pressed on.
Murphy covered the game between Norway and the Ivory Coast
Murphy covered the game between Norway and the Ivory Coast(Image: Getty Images)
"Yeah, he jumped in the back of a Royal Mail van, and we lost him," said Murphy. He then concluded while chuckling: "Sad really. Anyway."
After a further pause in the commentary, Bower steered things forward, noting: "Anyway, 18 minutes to go, the Ivory Coast need a goal."
Fortunately for the African side, a goal materialized a minute or so later through Ivory Coast talent Amad to level Norway's opener, which arrived shortly before the interval via Antonio Nusa. Erling Haaland ultimately restored Norway's advantage four minutes from the final whistle to secure passage to the round of 16.
Murphy's commentary provoked divided reactions across social media, with the Football Ramble describing it as "truly iconic commentary". Nevertheless, not everyone was convinced.
One viewer remarked sarcastically: "Riveting analysis from Danny Murphy here", while another queried: "Sorry, how is Danny Murphy a real commentator?"
Many also noted similarities to Alan Partridge. "Pure Partridge from Danny Murphy," one X account observed.
Another commented: "Easily the best bit of commentary from Danny Murphy ever. Full Partridge."
Some even cast doubt on the authenticity of the anecdote, suggesting: "I think it must be some version of an 'off to live on a farm' thing his parents told him? This needs to full true crime podcast treatment. Justice for Bob."
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Murphy did receive acclaim in certain circles, however. One viewer remarked: "Incredible. The comedic timing of 'sad really' is just masterful. Danny Murphy, I wasn't familiar with your game."