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Last Updated: Wednesday, 28 June 2006, 12:35 GMT 13:35 UK
China soccer bias forces apology
Australian fans in Sydney watch as their team loses
Australia were beaten 1-0 by Italy in a dramatic finish
A Chinese TV football commentator has apologised for on-air remarks made during the World Cup match between Italy and Australia earlier this week.

Huang Jianxiang lost his cool when Italy knocked Australia out of the World Cup with an injury-time goal.

Shouting support for Italy, he made comments such as "I hate Australia" in a rant which lasted several minutes.

After complaints from Australian fans, Mr Huang apologised, saying his emotions had got the better of him.

Comments such as "long live Italy" initially caused amusement.

But after several minutes and failed attempts by colleagues to stop him, Mr Huang faced a barrage of criticism.

A well-known and normally reserved commentator, Mr Huang at first refused to apologise for his outburst.

But he said listening back to his performance, he felt he had included too much personal feeling in his commentary.


SEE ALSO
Italy 1-0 Australia
26 Jun 06 |  World Cup 2006
Italy v Australia photos
26 Jun 06 |  World Cup 2006

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