Prince William said he was "gutted" after England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, ending hopes of ending 60 years of tournament heartache. The defending champions scored twice in the second half to overturn England's lead.
Prince William's tribute to the team
Writing on X, the Prince of Wales said: "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."
Political figures react
Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also expressed devastation, posting on X: "Gutted. Tonight wasn't the result we all hoped for, but this England team has given it their all. The passion and energy they've shown representing the badge has made us all proud."
Match details
Anthony Gordon fired England ahead 10 minutes into the second half after a goalless first half. Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez put Argentina ahead in the 92nd minute. Argentina's supporters displayed a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (the Falkland Islands are Argentinian), which players held aloft during celebrations.
Fan reactions
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... I think that was a tactical disaster honestly."
Harris Malhi, 31, who watched at Boxpark in Wembley, said: "I feel annoyed, to be honest. I feel a bit disappointed, but I can take a step back, look at the bigger picture and be grateful for the World Cup that we've had. I still think semi-final overall is a good moment."
Brawls outside stadium
Brawls erupted outside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta after the match, with police leading at least three people away. Back home, fans at a fan zone in Millennium Square in Leeds were seen open-mouthed or clutching their heads in despair as the final whistle sounded.
