England
Argentina deservedly beat England, but Thomas Tuchel lost the semi-final
Trying to sit deep against a team that thrives on competitive intensity ultimately proved the wrong approach.
Two years ago Djed Spence was on loan at Genoa. Now he has become a cult figure in England
The Tottenham full-back is the first Muslim player to feature for the Three Lions at a World Cup, but above all he is a reliable backup option on either flank.
English fans now have hydration breaks, as well as half-time, to turn to dating apps during World Cup matches
And they can benefit from the law of large numbers, given the number of spectators in World Cup stadiums.
Wonderwall streams soar during England’s World Cup campaign as Oasis’ anthem becomes the soundtrack to every victory
One of Britpop’s defining songs has returned to the UK top 40, with streams rising by as much as 50% in just a few weeks.
Perhaps €135 million may still be too much, but against Norway (and at the World Cup in general) Elliot Anderson showed why Manchester City did everything to sign him
At 23, the former Nottingham Forest midfielder has become the most consistent player in Tuchel’s England side.
England–Mexico belonged to Jude Bellingham
A complete player, decisive in the key moments. If this continues, Tuchel’s side can start thinking bigger.
Harry Kane is one of the best players in the world, with commercial appeal below football’s biggest stars
England’s captain has taken a different path from his peers, with less focus on building his public image and fewer endorsement deals, investing in other areas.
Harry Kane has long been among the best strikers in the world, and is now the best in world football
Harry Kane’s growth, improvement and leadership as England captain, in a team that depends on him and that even against Congo looked disjointed at best.
“Wonderwall” by Oasis has become England’s new unofficial anthem, and hearing it sung by supporters is one of the most striking scenes of this World Cup so far
Until Euro 2024, England’s victories under Kane and his teammates were accompanied by Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline”. Not anymore.
Harry Kane, almost a midfielder in England’s new setup, still decisive in front of goal
Essentially a classic playmaker, almost an extra midfielder in Tuchel’s England. A brace against Croatia.