Great Americans: A conversation with Andrรฉs Cantor
As the World Cup gets underway, Tom Llamas speaks with a man who has been part of the World Cup experience for decades, and whose voice people are sure to recognize. This weekโs great American is Andโฆ
As the World Cup gets underway, Tom Llamas speaks with a man who has been part of the World Cup experience for decades, and whose voice people are sur
Read Full Story at NBC News โWhy This Matters
Andrรฉs Cantor's voice has become synonymous with soccer's most electric moments in the U.S., bridging generations of fans through audibly iconic calls. His role transcends mere commentaryโit's a cultural touchstone that has shaped how American audiences experience the world's most-watched sporting event on home soil.
Background Context
Born in Argentina and raised in California, Cantor's journey mirrors the evolution of soccer in the U.S., where he arrived in the 1960s as a young immigrant and later became the voice of NBC's World Cup broadcasts. His Spanish-language callsโparticularly the legendary "ยกGoooool!!!"โhave resonated with fans across linguistic and demographic divides.
What Happens Next
With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams in 2026, Cantorโs presence could become even more pivotal in shaping soccerโs mainstream acceptance in America. His ability to narrate pivotal moments for a diverse audience may influence how networks prioritize bilingual coverage in future tournaments.
Bigger Picture
Cantorโs career reflects soccerโs broader arc in the U.S.โfrom a niche sport to a mainstream phenomenon. His work highlights how immigrant communities have historically driven the sportโs growth, while also underscoring the increasing bilingual nature of American sporting culture.

