But the huge numbers proved both a blessing and a burden – as the team behind the operation were forced to reduce quality and restrict access to some users.
The game between Serie A giant Internazionale and French side FC Sochaux-Montbeliard was the first test run for Global Sport TV – a new technology platform devised by the German firm and Narrowstep.
The figures were buoyed by the game not being available on terrestrial TV in France.
Says Dilip Shukla, advertising and sponsorship manager of Narrowstep: “The enthusiasm of the Sochaux supporters was overwhelming. We had more than 350,000 viewers from all over the world but mainly from France being connected to our network.”
Added Iolo Jones, Narrowstep CEO: “The enormous numbers of requests lead to a situation in which we had to compromise between access and quality. In order to satisfy as many football fans as possible, we decided to run the match on a lower quality level. Finally about 250.000 people could get a connection to the game, transforming this late Wednesday evening into a night to remember for us. We apologise to all the fans out there, who unfortunately could not get instant access to our player but they can now enjoy the game on demand at full quality level.”
Further tests will be conducted during UEFA Cup games between Benfica and Internazionale later this week.
