Describe a sports competition you watched: IELTS Speaking Cue Card

You should say

  • What competition it was?
  • When and where you watched it?
  • What was the most exciting moment?
  • And explain how it made you feel.

Band 7

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I am a big fan of football ever since my childhood. Football is a part and parcel of my life. I watch football matches daily, very frequently, such that even my mother scolds me for viewing it every time. The best part of watching football is that it gives me an adrenaline rush which nothing else gives. I don't watch football matches in TV, rather I prefer watching in the stadium live. My attendance in college is around 70, but my attendance in the football stadium is 100. I have not missed any match of my local club Chennai NFC. When I entered the stadium first, I was amazed by the breathtaking view of the stadium. It was a feast for my eyes. When the match started, the players were coming one by one from the tunnel into the football stadium. At that moment, I was on cloud nine because I was able to watch the players whom I have admired ever since my childhood, very close to me. For example, I had this opportunity to meet Raphael Crivellaro, who is the local star of Chennai NFC. He is known for finishing goals from a longer distance. I was able to meet him and I got some valuable insights about football. For me, football is more of personal exploration. I wish I could attend matches in the foreign if I get a chance.

Follow up questions


What do you think makes football so popular worldwide?
Football's popularity stems from its simplicity, accessibility, and the excitement it brings. It unites people across cultures and countries, creating a sense of community. The passion of fans, the thrill of competition, and the skill of players all contribute to its global appeal.

How do you feel about the atmosphere in a stadium during a match?
The atmosphere in a stadium is electric. The cheers, chants, and collective emotions of the fans create an unforgettable experience. It's a unique feeling to be part of a crowd, all sharing the same passion and excitement for the game, which enhances the overall enjoyment of the match.

Have you ever played football yourself? If so, what position do you prefer?
Yes, I have played football recreationally. I prefer playing as a midfielder because it allows me to be involved in both defense and attack. I enjoy the strategic aspect of controlling the game and making key passes to set up goals for my teammates.

Band 7

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One sports competition I clearly remember watching was the IPL final match in 2023 where Chennai Super Kings played against Gujarat Titans. I watched it on live on TV at home with my family and the atmosphere was full of energy and excitement. The match was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and it was a night match. What made it even more special was the game was very close till the last over. Chennai needed 13 runs in 6 balls. Everyone was on the edge of their seats. The most exciting moment was when Ravindra Jadeja hit a 6 and 4 in the last 2 balls leading Chennai to the historic win. That moment gave me goosebumps and my entire family jumped with joy. It made me feel extremely thrilled and emotional because I have been a CSK fan for years. Watching such a close match especially with a dramatic ending was a truly unforgettable experience.

Follow up questions


What other sports do you enjoy watching?
Besides cricket, I enjoy watching football and tennis. I love the strategy and skill involved in these sports. Major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and Wimbledon are particularly exciting for me, as they showcase the best athletes competing at the highest level.

How do you feel about the role of sports in bringing people together?
I believe sports play a significant role in uniting people. They create a sense of community and shared experience, especially during major events like the IPL. Watching games together fosters camaraderie and allows fans to celebrate victories and support each other during losses.

Have you ever participated in any sports competitions yourself?
Yes, I have participated in local cricket tournaments during my school days. Playing in a team taught me valuable lessons about teamwork and perseverance. It was always thrilling to compete, and I enjoyed the camaraderie with my teammates, even if we didn't always win.

Band 7

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It was a cricket match. I actually went to the cricket stadium directly. This event happened a year ago. It was a league match which is called IPL. It is a short form of Indian Premier League. Cricket is a game which I love most and IPL is a format which I love in cricket. So I am literally on cloud nine when I got an opportunity to watch the live match. The best moment of the match was when my favourite team won the match. I went on to support Chennai Super Kings because that team had my favourite player Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He was a legend. Sorry he is a legend. Witnessing him directly is one of the best experiences in my life till date. Seeing the whole environment and my friends and colleagues were celebrating with me. The total arena was so energetic and that experience was surreal. Though it cost very much, the ticket was impeccably high amount but yet that was worth the price. Because if I look back into those days, I can't remember how much I spent but definitely I can remember how much I have enjoyed. So that would remain as my top favourite moment.

Follow up questions


What other sports do you enjoy watching?
Besides cricket, I enjoy watching football and basketball. The excitement of the games and the skills of the players really captivate me. I often follow major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and the NBA Finals, as they showcase some of the best talent in the world.

How do you feel about the atmosphere at live sports events?
The atmosphere at live sports events is electric! The energy from the crowd, the cheers, and the collective excitement create an unforgettable experience. It's amazing to share those moments with fellow fans, and it makes the event much more enjoyable than watching it on TV.

Have you ever participated in any sports competitions?
Yes, I have participated in local cricket tournaments during my school days. Playing in a team and competing against others was thrilling. It taught me teamwork and discipline, and I still cherish those memories of playing with friends and the joy of winning matches together.

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Band 7

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The most exciting time of the year for me is July. July is when Wimbledon is hosted. Wimbledon is the most competitive tennis tournament which is held only once a year. It is part of the four grand slams of tennis, including Australian Open, French Open and US Open as the three other grand slams. The Wimbledon, usually known for its strawberries and cream, showcases the most competitive tennis. Players like Alexander Zverev, Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal have been known as the legends of grass. It is held in a grass court surface which is very hard to find in any destination all over the world. Moreover, the tournament features a lot of grit through the longest matches which have been played on the circuit. I had watched this tournament last year from the comfort of my home in July on a TV. My favourite player being Roger Federer is known for his swag and effortless brilliance. The most enjoyable moment for me was when Roger Federer reached the final without dropping a set in the most effortless and perfect fashion possible. He won the final as well but his opponent was injured making it a very less exciting final. To me, Wimbledon is a very special tournament. Being a tennis enthusiast, it is my dream to win Wimbledon one day. I don't know if I can achieve that. Hopefully, I will work towards that. I loved the strawberries and cream which I tried in Wimbledon during my visit to London when I was 6 years old. The Wimbledon is a tournament.

Follow up questions


What do you think makes Wimbledon different from other tennis tournaments?
Wimbledon is unique due to its rich history, traditions like strawberries and cream, and its grass court surface. The atmosphere is also special, with a strong sense of prestige and competition that sets it apart from other tournaments.

How do you feel about the role of injuries in sports competitions?
Injuries can significantly impact the excitement and fairness of a competition. They can change the dynamics of a match, as seen in the Wimbledon final I watched. While they are part of sports, they can be disappointing for fans and players alike.

What qualities do you think are essential for a successful athlete?
Successful athletes need a combination of physical skill, mental toughness, and dedication. They must also possess resilience to overcome challenges and injuries, as well as the ability to perform under pressure, especially in high-stakes competitions like Wimbledon.

Band 7

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I have seen numerous sporting events in my life, but most of them were cricket matches. I have seen a couple of hockey matches as well, but the event that has a long-lasting impression on my mind is the 2011 Cricket World Cup Semi-Final played between India and Pakistan. In 2011, the World Cup was co-hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. No one expected India to lift the cup as the semi-final and final were scheduled to be held in India.

Follow up questions


What made the 2011 Cricket World Cup Semi-Final so memorable for you?
The intensity of the rivalry between India and Pakistan, the atmosphere in the stadium, and the high stakes of the match made it unforgettable. The excitement of the crowd and the nail-biting moments kept me on the edge of my seat.

How do you think cricket compares to other sports in terms of popularity in your country?
Cricket is by far the most popular sport in India, often considered a religion. It unites people across different backgrounds, unlike other sports which may not have the same level of following or cultural significance.

Have you ever participated in any sports competitions yourself?
Yes, I played cricket in school and participated in local tournaments. It was a great experience that taught me teamwork and discipline, and I enjoyed the thrill of competing, even if it wasn't on a grand scale like the World Cup.
Show all 152 answers

Cue 1:What competition it was?

  • Begin by naming the specific sports competition you watched, such as a cricket match or a football tournament.
  • Provide a brief background about the competition, including its significance and the teams or players involved.

Example

The competition I watched was the ICC Cricket World Cup final between India and Australia. This match was particularly significant as it was held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where India was aiming to win the World Cup on home soil.


Cue 2:When and where you watched it?

  • Mention the date and time of the event, as well as the location where you watched it.
  • Describe the atmosphere of the place, whether you were at home, a friend's house, or a public viewing area.

Example

I watched the match on April 2, 2011, at my friend's house. We had gathered there with a group of friends, and the excitement in the air was palpable. Everyone was wearing blue jerseys, and we had snacks and drinks ready for the big game.


Cue 3:What was the most exciting moment?

  • Identify a specific moment in the competition that stood out as the most thrilling.
  • Explain why this moment was exciting, including any emotions or reactions from the crowd.

Example

The most exciting moment was when MS Dhoni hit a six to win the match. The entire room erupted in cheers, and I felt a rush of joy and pride. It was a defining moment, as it not only secured the victory but also showcased Dhoni's incredible skill and composure under pressure.


Cue 4:And explain how it made you feel.

  • Share your personal feelings during and after the competition, focusing on the emotional impact.
  • Discuss any sense of pride or connection you felt with your country or the sport.

Example

Watching India win the World Cup made me feel immensely proud to be an Indian. I was filled with joy and a sense of unity with my friends and fellow fans. It was a moment that brought everyone together, celebrating our team's hard work and dedication.


Conclusion

    Example

    In conclusion, watching the ICC Cricket World Cup final was an unforgettable experience that filled me with pride and excitement. It reminded me of the power of sports to bring people together and create lasting memories.


    Following this structure will ensure you cover all the essential points while providing a clear and engaging response to the cue card topic.


    Tips to answer this Cue Card

    1: Lack of Specific Details

    Candidates often provide vague answers without specific details about the competition. This can make the response less engaging and informative.

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    Tip

    Include specific names, dates, and locations related to the competition to make your answer more vivid and interesting.


    2: Ignoring Emotional Impact

    Many candidates forget to express their feelings about the competition. This can lead to a flat and uninteresting response.

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    Tip

    Share your emotions during the competition, especially during exciting moments, to connect better with the listener.


    Rushing Through the Answer

    Some candidates speak too quickly, missing important points and making it hard for the examiner to follow.

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    Tip

    Take your time to structure your answer clearly, pausing between points to ensure clarity and coherence.


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    All Answers

    Here are all the answers by real-users practicing speaking for IELTS Cue Cards on our IELTS Prep App.

    Band 8

    One memorable sports competition I watched was the ICC Cricket World Cup final last year. It was an iconic match between India and Australia, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, which is the largest cricket stadium in the world. I watched it live on television with a group of friends at my apartment. The atmosphere was electrifying, even at home, because everyone was cheering, shouting and clapping during every boundary and wicket. The most exhilarating moment for me was when Virat Kohli scored his elegant half-century under immense pressure, keeping India's hope alive. However, the most crucial turning point was when Travis Head from Australia played an outstanding innings, scoring a century, which ultimately led Australia to victory. Watching this match made me feel a rollercoaster of emotions. I felt proud and elated to see India perform at such a grand stage, but at the same time, I felt crestfallen when they lost despite their brilliant efforts. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience that showcased sportsmanship, resilience and the unpredictable nature of cricket. It reminded me how sports have the power to unite people and create memories that last a lifetime.

    Band 7

    I watched a local inter-college football competition at our college ground last month. The most exciting moment was where a player made a last-minute goal, completely changing the outcome of the match. The crowd entered with cheers and everyone jumped up in excitement. Watching the moment made me feel thrilled and inspired by the players' determination and teamwork. It was amazing to see how hard work and coordination on the field could create such an unforgettable experience. The crowd went wild cheering and clapping and I could feel the excitement and energy and excitement stayed with me making it one of the most memorable competition I have watched.

    Band 7

    So, I would like to talk about the Cricket World Cup 2023, which happened during the winter of 2023. So this was overall a pretty amazing tournament, especially for India, which had won 10 out of the 11 games, unfortunately, we had lost the finals. So during the start of the tournament, we had to face Australia, which gave us a tough fight. But eventually Virat Kohli and Kirill Rahul made an amazing partnership, which led us to the victory of that match. And later, we faced Afghanistan, whom we got past very easily. Next, we got to face Pakistan, which was also not much of a competition. Later we had to face many other teams. But however, the most memorable ones were the matches against Sri Lanka and the match against South Africa, where our bowlers decimated the opposition's batting lineup. So during the Sri Lanka match, all of our bowlers have destroyed the batting lineup of Sri Lanka, getting them all out within 55 runs. For South Africa, during that match, Virat Kohli has scored a century and the bowlers had got the batsmen out for 82 runs. So overall, when you look at the players' achievements, Virat Kohli has set a new world record with 765 runs, which was a marvellous achievement. And Mohammad Shami was very effective with the ball. He was very destructive. He was one of our key players during the tournament, taking many wickets. And he was effective. He was very important each and every match. We wouldn't have won the semi-final if it wasn't for him, taking seven wickets against New Zealand. And during the semi-final, it was also...

    Band 7

    It was a cricket match, T20 world cup of... What competition it was, when and where you watched it? It was the most exciting moment and... It was a cricket match between India and Pakistan during... World cup T20 tournament in 2007. It was conducted on 24th September 2007. I watched the match at my home with my parents and friends... on the same day as a live telecast. We were very excited when the catch was taken by Srisanth... to dismiss Ms. Baulhak in the last over of Jaginder Sharma. So after taking the catch, we all got goosebumps and tears on our eyes... as India lifted the world cup T20 for the first time ever. So it was unforgettable and most catchable moment in our life. So it made us feel extremely happy. We were over the moon on watching that match... especially after winning that world cup, inaugural T20 world cup for our nation.

    Band 7

    Since childhood, I never had interest in watching sports competitions, but this question unlocked a cold memory from my childhood. I don't remember the year, but the whole family was gathered and we watched India-Pakistan World Cup finale together. In that year, India won the World Cup and it was midnight time, but everyone was so happy on India's win that my father asked my brother to go to nearby shop and buy some cold drinks and chips for everyone so that we can celebrate that win.

    Band 7

    I enjoy watching cricket. I watch cricket often, be it the international matches or the ones that happen within my country. Cricket in my country is actually a big deal. We have a cricket league called as Indian Premier League which happens every year. I still remember watching it as a kid. First time I watched it was during my 7th grade I guess. I watched it with my parents and I wanted to know what was the excitement about. From then I used to watch it often until now. Still there is this one match that I remember. My favourite team against Arrival. It was like a cliffhanger moment until the last ball. I really thought my team would lose that day. It was really nail biting. There were several nail biting moments in the match. The match actually took a different turn after the 15th over. The rival team started losing wickets and my team started getting to the winning moment. The weight, the thrill in the match made it satisfying at the end. I enjoyed the whole process.

    Band 7

    Usually, I don't watch many sports competitions, but yes, I like cricket a lot and I also am a cricketer. So, I once visited to see a cricket competition, district match between Patiala versus Mansa. I went to Mansa to watch this match. The match was in Khalsa cricket ground at Mansa near railway station. I myself was a part of the team, I was among the extra players. The most exciting thing about the match was that whenever captain was really batting well all the day and he scored double hundred, then all the team was very happy and were cheering for him. So, yeah, it was a really happy moment for all of us as it was its debut match as a captain and also on the next day as it was a two-day match, our bowling performance was also too good and after scoring a total of 300 runs, we did them all out on just 80 runs. So, yeah, it was a great experience watching the match. I wasn't in the playing level, so I was just watching the match, but still it gave me goosebumps and I felt really lively like I myself was playing the match. Thank you.

    Band 7

    I was honored to watch the recent IPL that was held in March of 2025. It was a cricket match between RCB and KKR. RCB has a huge fan base even though it hasn't won a single IPL trophy in the last 18 years and that was achieved this year. My favorite team RCB lifted its first IPL trophy and I witnessed that moment in my house with my parents on the TV. I was extremely happy. I was elated. I was on cloud nine. I felt very proud and it was a very memorable moment. The most heartfelt moment that happened during the match was when I saw Virat teared up because that player has dedicated his entire life to this team and to see him win the trophy it made me feel really happy and it is a day to be remembered.

    Band 7

    Recently, a few months back, I watched Cricket World Cup and I watched it on TV. It was a very exciting moment because my favourite players were playing, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. It was predicted that Rohit Sharma might not play the next best match, World Cup. So, it was very special for us to win that cup. It was very necessary. And, they won the World Cup.

    Band 7

    I'd like to talk about the sports competition I watched which is the Indian Premier League. It is a T20 competition held between two different states in India where each team gets chance of batting and bowling for 20 hours respectively. I have been watching the IPL from my childhood and I still watch it. So, one thing I can say that it has been one of the most remarkable leagues that I have ever witnessed. My and my favourite team is the Chennai Super Kings which is led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni. One thing I would definitely say that it is a fantastic team and the moment which filled my heart with joy is the 2023 final where the match has been extended from day 1 to day 2 because of the rain. Secondly, the overs have been restricted to 17 and the target has been skimmed from 220 for 20 overs to 170 in 15 overs which is one of the hardest achievable targets while chasing in the history of T20 cricket and that too in a final match. But our team boys pulled out a crazy chase where 10 runs were needed of the last 12 balls and our team all-rounder Jadeja has pulled off the chase by scoring a 6 and a 4 in the last over.
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