GOOOL! Andrés Cantor On His Iconic Call, Top Moments, and the 2026 ‘Double XL’ World Cup

“Gooooooooool!” is one of the most recognized phrases in sports, serving as a tribute to the excitement of soccer. The voice behind this famed call is Andrés Cantor, an Argentinian broadcaster whose passion for soccer has cemented his legacy in the sport over the past 38 years.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, set to occur in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, Cantor reflects on his career, iconic moments from previous tournaments, and the growth of soccer in the U.S. since the landmark 1994 World Cup.

Iconic Goal Calls

Cantor notes he doesn’t keep track of the exact length of his iconic calls but recalls a notable 44-second call, demonstrating his commitment and love for the game. “It just comes out of passion,” he explains, emphasizing that the emergency of each game can shorten his calls as he navigates through intense moments.

His broadcast methods have been influenced by physical demands, with some tournaments forcing him to juggle intense schedules and travel across multiple cities. The significance of resting, both personally and vocally, cannot be overstated for him.

Anticipation for 2026 World Cup

Looking forward to the upcoming World Cup, Cantor believes it will be the most significant sporting event in U.S. history due to the unprecedented scale of 104 matches and 48 teams. He makes a comparison to the 1994 World Cup, which he recalls as a watershed moment for soccer in America. Since then, Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen tremendous growth, now featuring 30 teams and a vibrant culture of soccer appreciation in the U.S.

The Evolution of Soccer Culture

Cantor articulated his observations regarding the evolving soccer culture in America, noting a burgeoning passion similar to that found in Latin American countries. He acknowledges the uniqueness of American soccer fans who view games as entertainment while still feeling national pride, especially when the U.S. team is involved.

He highlights the incoming U.S. national team coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is working to instill a more intense, passionate approach to the game, echoing the excitement found in Latin American soccer culture.

As he prepares for another World Cup, Cantor’s memories as a fan in Argentina and now as a broadcaster speak to his deep connection to the beautiful game and the joy it brings not just to players, but to all who watch.

Andrés Cantor Photo Credit: SonoVisuals