Comedian Joseph Opio takes football banter to a podcast

Ugandan comedian and media personality Joseph Opio is taking his love for football to the microphone with a new podcast set to debut on Friday, October 9, Independence Day.

Known for his sharp wit, storytelling and unapologetic football opinions, Opio, who won a Sports Emmy Award in May 2024 for his work on the docuseries, The World According to Football, plans to explore the game beyond the 90 minutes, mixing football debates with humour, culture and entertainment.

The move is a natural extension of his broadcasting career. Opio previously co-hosted a World Cup watch party with South African comedy heavyweight Trevor Noah, where the duo stirred debate with their candid takes on the game.

Opio and Noah also famously took aim at England’s national team during a World Cup episode of What Now? with Trevor Noah, questioning the team’s hype and performances compared with football powerhouses such as Brazil, Argentina, France and Spain.

Opio’s football commentary has since earned him a cult following, with some fans even comparing his punditry favourably with established analysts such as Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.

News of the podcast has already excited fans. “Yes, yes, yes, Joe. I am here for the provocative banter, starting with Manchester City’s 115 charges,” Joel Oumo wrote on X.

“Finally, the long-awaited podcast is here,” Josh Muhumuza posted.

Moses Rudende added: “Hold your hats! Joe Nostradamus has a podcast.”

With football personalities, fans and topical debates expected on the show, Opio’s biggest task may be keeping the banter as entertaining as the football itself.