The England team faced a crushing 2-1 defeat against Spain in the Euro 2024 final last night, leaving players shattered and fans devastated.
Families and partners rushed to console the heartbroken players on the pitch in Berlin, echoing the sorrow felt nationwide. This loss marked another bitter disappointment after their similar heartbreak in the Euro 2020 final.
Emotional Scenes on the Pitch
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and Cole Palmer were visibly distraught, heads in their hands, while a collapsed Jude Bellingham was comforted by manager Gareth Southgate.
In the stands, Ollie Watkins wept in the arms of his girlfriend and brother, and Luke Shaw tried to disappear under his hoodie.
The royal family, including Prince William and Prince George, were also in attendance, with Prince William consoling a dejected Harry Kane after the match.
Royal and National Support
Prince William, the president of the FA, offered words of encouragement to the team, reminding them of the nation’s pride.
King Charles also extended his support, urging the team to hold their heads high and praising their achievement despite the loss.
The Turning Point
Cole Palmer’s brilliant 73rd-minute equalizer had sparked hope among fans, leading to wild celebrations both in Berlin’s Olympiastadion and back home.
However, Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal shattered these dreams with an 86th-minute winning goal, bringing England’s hopes crashing down.
Fan Reactions
Fans across Berlin and the UK shared their bitter disappointment. Aaron Dixon, an engineer from Nantwich, felt England never really got going, while Johnathan Paul from Sheffield believed José Mourinho could be a good successor if Southgate steps down.
Despite the heartbreak, many fans expressed pride in the team’s effort and resilience throughout the tournament.
A Nation in Mourning
In various fan zones, from Boxpark Croydon to the O2 Arena, supporters were left stunned and heartbroken.
Fans lingered in disbelief, with some already looking forward to the World Cup as a chance for redemption. Retail worker Josh Barry summed up the sentiment, expressing pride in the team’s effort despite the loss.
Reflections and Future Hopes
Former England legend Alan Shearer shared in the disappointment, while other fans remained hopeful for future success.
Businessman Phil Riggins and his son, both emotional, believed that despite the loss, England’s journey to the final was a significant achievement.
Social Media Reactions and Celebrity Support
Social media was abuzz with support from celebrities like Ed Sheeran, Ant and Dec, Amanda Holden, and Dani Dyer, who were all cheering for the team.
The royal family’s presence in Berlin highlighted the national importance of the match.
Looking Forward
Despite the heartache, fans like Coley McFarlane remained positive, focusing on the milestones achieved and the potential for future triumphs.
The World Cup in two years was already on the minds of many, with hopes that England would come back stronger and finally break their long-standing trophy drought.