The Prince of Wales has told England to 'hold your heads high' after a devastating 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, with two late goals crushing the nation's hopes of ending 60 years of hurt.
Anthony Gordon fired England ahead in the 55th minute after a goalless first half at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. But Argentina struck twice in the closing stages – Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez put the defending champions ahead in the 92nd minute – to book a final against Spain.
“Prince William says England 'inspired us all' after 2-1 semi-final loss; two late Argentina goals end 60-year World Cup wait.”
Prince William, patron of the Football Association, posted on X: 'Gutted. England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you. Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch, for an incredible tournament. The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high.' The statement, signed off as 'W', came directly from the future king, a known Aston Villa fan.
Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who had referenced England's build-up in his final address to the House of Commons on Wednesday, echoed the sentiment. 'Gutted. Tonight wasn't the result we all hoped for, but this England team has given it their all,' he said. 'The passion and energy they've shown representing the badge has made us all proud.'
Argentina's supporters celebrated exuberantly, with some near the pitch brandishing a banner reading 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas' – the Falkland Islands are Argentinian. The players held it aloft as they revelled in their victory.
Brawls erupted outside the stadium after the match, with police leading at least three people away. Ben Harper, 32, from Stoke-on-Trent, told the Press Association: 'First half was cagey – it was the most tense half of football I've seen in a long time. Second half we nicked the goal and I thought OK, we've got the momentum. Then, nothing. Negative substitutions, defensive players come on… against the best team in the tournament.'
England's defeat means manager Thomas Tuchel's game plan has come under scrutiny, with questions over his defensive changes. The result leaves the Three Lions waiting another four years to end their World Cup drought.
