The English Football League (EFL) is set to make a grand entrance into the United States, with a selection of matches scheduled to be shown in Los Angeles and Dallas. This move comes as part of an agreement between CBS Sports and Cosm.
Cosm, known for its innovative approach towards broadcasting live sports events, will replicate these matches within a cinema environment on 180-degree domed screens. This immersive-experience technology simulates the experience of attending the stadium ground, offering fans an unprecedented viewing experience.
A minimum of six Sky Bet EFL matches will be broadcasted at these venues. The first match - Wrexham v Barnsley - is slated to air on 3 December. An additional EFL match at Cosm will be announced later.
Confirmed matches
Here are some confirmed matches that fans can look forward to:
- Wrexham v Barnsley – Tuesday 3 December, 2.45 pm (ET)
- Sheffield United v Burnley – Thursday 26 December, 10.00 am (ET)
- Wrexham v Birmingham City – Thursday 23 January, 3.00 pm (ET)
- Coventry City v Leeds United – Saturday 8 February, 10.00 am (ET)
- Huddersfield Town v Wrexham – Tuesday 4 March, 7:45 pm ( ET)
Behind-the-scenes technology
To ensure an uninterrupted and immersive viewing experience for fans, Cosm installs several high-resolution cameras around the stadium that capture all angles without disrupting regular production output. This footage is then stitched together to create a unique wide-angle effect that recreates being in the ground itself.
This arrangement has been made possible by CBS Sports -the international broadcast partner for EFL matches in the United States from the start of the 2024/25 season - partnering with Cosm.
This innovative approach to broadcasting EFL matches in the USA is set to revolutionize how sports fans engage with live events. By offering a shared reality experience, Cosm and CBS Sports are not only enhancing viewer engagement but also setting a new standard for sports broadcasting. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or an avid sports bettor, this immersive viewing experience promises to bring you closer to the action than ever before.
