England fans were scoring in more ways than one after their blistering win against Croatia, with stats showing condom sales surged after the 4-2 result.
Post-Match Celebrations
There was no chance of a clean sheet as gleeful England fans celebrated well into the night, after wrapping up the first game of the World Cup in more ways than one. Searches for places to buy condoms went up by a whopping 98%, with the surge in demand coming as the final whistle went in Dallas.
The data from Condoms.uk reveals that searches for condom delivery surged in the 24 hours after Harry Kane led his men to glory on the pitch.
Pattern of Sporting Events
Sexual health experts say the pattern is well established. Major sporting events, and in particular England fixtures, get Brits in the mood thanks to an increase in social activity, with fans gathering to watch before celebrations or commiserations continue into the night.
A spokesman said: "It was busy after England's opening match, suggesting that major tournament nights are driving significantly more than just football conversations. A 98% spike in searches overnight tells you that England playing a World Cup match has an almost immediate effect on condom demand. The concern isn't that people are buying condoms - that's exactly the right instinct."
Warning on Ill-Fitting Condoms
Now sexual health experts are warning that rushing to score a win in the sheets after the final whistle could leave you vulnerable to scoring an own goal with STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
"With demand spiking and purchases being made in a rush, we are raising an urgent concern: when Brits reach for a condom, most are choosing on autopilot and wearing the wrong size doesn't just affect comfort. It can affect protection, as condoms that don't fit properly are at risk of breakage," they said.
A spokesperson continued: "There's a widespread assumption that any condom offers full protection regardless of fit. In reality, an ill-fitting condom - whether too tight or too loose - is a condom that's more likely to break or slip. Choosing a condom that fits correctly isn't just about comfort. It's a meaningful part of using contraception safely and effectively."
