Disney+ criticised after advert break during Arsenal Women’s Champions League match

Disney+ was criticised by viewers after an advert break interrupted the second half of Tuesday’s live coverage of Arsenal’s opening Women’s Champions League fixture. Fans were unable to see the action for about three minutes.

The incident occurred during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Danish side HB Køge, with the winner scored by Mariona Caldentey’s 93rd-minute penalty. No goals were missed during the interruption. Disney+’s Women’s Champions League coverage is produced by ESPN. In 2025, Disney+ secured a five-year deal to broadcast the competition exclusively across Europe, including to viewers in the United Kingdom, replacing the previous rights holders, Dazn.

The break occurred with some 15 minutes remaining in the second half. Some viewers were shown adverts while others saw the words “commercial break in progress” on an orange backdrop. Once coverage resumed, the commentary team continued without commenting, seemingly unaware the interruption had occurred.

Many fans vented frustration on social media during and after the advert break, and some received replies from the Disney+ Help account on X, which wrote to one fan, Emelia: “Sorry for any frustration, Emelia! Our Disney+ Standard and Disney+ Premium plans are without commercial interruption, but these plans may include limited promotional content including clips and trailers, as well as branded content or programme sponsor messaging. Live and special events may also have ads.”

It is understood Tuesday’s interruption was unintended and was caused by a technical issue. Disney+ is understood to be taking steps to address the problem.

Some viewers also criticised the broadcaster’s analysis show for its unusually quirky tone, which included a dog in the studio and a quiz about Italy that featured a question about pasta. A new show called The Hangout aired live from 5pm until 10.30pm BST to cover the 5.45pm and 8pm kick-offs and included guests enjoying a vegetable platter while discussing the games. Flo Lloyd-Hughes wrote on X: “Disney’s new UWCL coverage is the closest we’ve seen to CBBC football (derogatory). I wouldn’t be surprised if we see someone gunged for making a wrong prediction or perhaps Raven will make a cameo. Keep stopping to remind myself this isn’t a dream.”

Disney+ has been approached for comment. It is understood Disney intends to listen to audience feedback regarding The Hangout as the season progresses.