The Prince of Wales has expressed his devastation after England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, calling himself 'gutted' in a social media post. The Three Lions lost 2-1 in Atlanta, with Argentina scoring the winner in the third minute of injury time.
Royal and Political Reactions
William wrote on Instagram: '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.'
Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid tribute on X, stating: '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
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon's strike, following a superb cross from Morgan Rogers. Argentina equalised with a stunning long-range effort from Enzo Fernandez, before Lautaro Martinez headed home from Lionel Messi's cross deep into stoppage time.
Fan and Player Reactions
Deflated England fans were heavily critical of manager Thomas Tuchel's tactics outside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Ben Harper, 32, from Stoke-on-Trent, described the approach as 'a tactical disaster,' saying: '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... To then think 30 minutes in this stadium against the best team in the tournament for making comebacks, the best strategy is to sit back. Then they scored and it went 1-1... I think that was a tactical disaster honestly.'
Harris Malhi, 31, who watched at Boxpark in Wembley, said: 'I feel annoyed... I think we went defensive slightly too early. That’s frustrating. But, you know, they’re world champions. They’ve got world-class players.'
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was tearful after the final whistle, and the squad thanked their fans in Atlanta.
