The Prince of Wales said he was 'gutted' for England after they lost to Argentina in their World Cup semi-final, but said the Three Lions' 'fight and belief' in the tournament was inspiring. England fans were devastated as their hopes that their team could end 60 years of World Cup hurt were dashed when the defending champions beat them 2-1.
Match Details
Supporters of Thomas Tuchel's side had been nervously optimistic that they could beat their old rivals, despite their concern that captain Lionel Messi could get in the way. The joyous mood after Anthony Gordon put the Three Lions ahead 10 minutes into the second half – after a goalless, cagey first 45 minutes – came crashing down as Enzo Fernandez equalised 85 minutes in. It soured even further when Lautaro Martinez put Argentina in the lead in the 92nd minute.
Royal and Political Reactions
William thanked the team for 'an incredible tournament'. 'Gutted,' the Prince of Wales said. '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.'
The outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer chimed with the future king, also saying he was gutted for Tuchel's side. In a post on X, Sir Keir said: '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.'
Fan Reactions
Fans were dismayed, with many stood open mouthed or with their hands on their heads as the whistle was blown at a fan zone in Millennium Square in Leeds. Harris Malhi, 31, who watched the game at Boxpark in Wembley, north London, told the Press Association: '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. Tuchel stays, he's got the contract to stay, doesn't he? I think hopefully he'll learn from this, the players will learn from this. Either you can play not to lose or you can play to win, and we probably played not to lose a bit too early, to be honest. I think we went defensive slightly too early. That's frustrating. But, you know, they're world champions. They've got world-class players.'
