When discussing live sports matches in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to provide vivid details and express genuine enthusiasm. This topic frequently appears in describe a live sports match that you watched questions, particularly in Part 2 of the speaking test.
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions include:
- Do you like watching sports?
- What’s your favorite sport to watch?
- Do you prefer watching sports live or on TV?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’m absolutely passionate about watching sports, especially football. There’s nothing quite like the electric atmosphere of a live match. While TV offers great close-ups and replays, I firmly believe that being present at the stadium gives you an unparalleled experience of the game’s energy.”
Part 2: Cue Card
You should talk about:
- What the match was
- When and where you watched it
- Who you watched it with
- Why it was memorable
describe a sports event you enjoyed watching
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to tell you about a thrilling Champions League final I watched live at Wembley Stadium. It was the nail-biting match between Manchester United and Barcelona in 2011. I was fortunate enough to attend with my father, who’s been a lifelong football enthusiast.
The atmosphere was absolutely electric, with over 80,000 fans creating a deafening roar throughout the match. What made it particularly memorable was not just the exceptional quality of play, but also the raw emotions displayed by both sets of supporters.
The match itself was a masterclass in tactical football, with Barcelona’s mesmerizing possession style ultimately prevailing. What struck me most was how the entire stadium seemed to hold its breath during crucial moments.”
Capturing the emotional intensity of watching a live sports match
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: How has technology changed the way people watch sports?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized sports viewing in numerous ways. Perhaps most significantly, VAR (Video Assistant Referee) has fundamentally altered how decisions are made in football. Moreover, streaming platforms have made sports increasingly accessible, allowing fans to watch matches on various devices. However, I firmly believe that these technological advances, while beneficial, shouldn’t diminish the importance of the traditional stadium experience.”
describe a memorable sports event you attended
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Nail-biting (adj) /ˈneɪl.baɪ.tɪŋ/ – very exciting or nervous
- Electric atmosphere (phrase) – exciting and energetic environment
- Edge of your seat (idiom) – very excited and nervous about what is happening
- Turn the tide (idiom) – change the direction of events
- In top form (phrase) – performing at the highest level
Example: “The match was absolutely nail-biting, with both teams in top form until the very last minute.”
Examiner’s Tips
To achieve a high band score:
- Use varied vocabulary and avoid repetition
- Include specific details and personal reactions
- Structure your response logically
- Express opinions clearly with supporting reasons
- Use appropriate tenses consistently
Remember to practice describing different types of sporting events to build confidence and fluency in your responses.
