The official drummer of the Miami Marlins broke with protocol last night, bellowing “Let’s go England” to a crowd of hundreds of Three Lions supporters who had invaded the baseball game. Noah Sarles, 23, from Great Hallingbury, Essex, described it as “a lovely touch” as England and Norway fans mixed in a carnival atmosphere, with Norway fans even joining the Marlins mascots in their famous “row”. The Marlins won – and Sarles hopes for “a similar victory for England” when the two sides meet in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final.
Back home, Asda has built a giant England flag outside its Eastlands store – a “Wonderwall” measuring 9.25 metres wide by 3.65 metres high – for fans to sign. Former England defender Phil Jagielka, first to pen a message, said: “Having played at the World Cup for England, I know how much the support means to the players. Norway are a top side and Haaland is one of the best strikers in world football, but hopefully England can build a real Wonderwall at the back and book their place in the semi-finals.” The activation comes after Oasis’s hit Wonderwall became the unofficial soundtrack to England’s campaign, with Liam Gallagher joking on X: “It’s hard work that singing Harry Kane cmon ENGLAND cmon WONDERWALL,” and Noel Gallagher telling The Sun the anthem now “belongs to the people”, calling the post-match singalongs “magical”.
“England fans invade Miami baseball game as official drummer chants support; Asda unveils giant Wonderwall flag.”
Miami is braced for searing heat – nearly 40°C at kick-off in a roofless stadium – and thunderstorms could disrupt play. Fifa bosses are praying there won’t be a repeat of last weekend’s delayed kick-off against Mexico. The authorities have set up hydration stations, and England superfan Gary Taylor, 64, who flew in with girlfriend Jo Lewis, 44, after a few days in Cancun, said: “This is such a fantastic opportunity. Norway are a good side but playing them in a World Cup quarter-final instead of Brazil is a dream.” David Beckham is expected to attend the game.
After the match, England will fly back to their Kansas City base whether they win or lose. If defeated, they return to London on Sunday. Win, and they head to Atlanta. The giant Wonderwall flag will remain outside the Eastlands store until kick-off, with hundreds more messages expected. “Let’s hope we play well and win,” Taylor added – a sentiment echoed by the drummer in Miami.
