England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina on July 15 drove the highest broadband traffic of any Three Lions match this summer, according to network data from alternative full-fibre provider Hyperoptic. Broadband usage peaked at approximately 150–155% above pre-match levels, and was 10–11% higher than during the Spain vs France semi-final the previous evening.
Non-Football Fans Tuned In
The data suggests many non-football fans made an exception for the 2-1 defeat to Argentina. Hyperoptic's research, surveying 2,000 UK adults with home broadband, found 18% of people say someone else streams TV or films while they are watching football. Usage on streaming platforms not showing the match dropped sharply at kick-off, while overall broadband demand remained high, indicating that 'football widows' may have watched the match while scrolling, shopping, or messaging on a second screen.
Post-Match Behaviour
Traffic after Spain vs France eased gradually, but demand following England’s defeat dropped away almost immediately, suggesting disappointed fans quickly switched off. Streaming activity rebounded immediately after the final whistle, reaching its highest level of the day as viewers returned to usual programmes.
Advice for Upcoming Matches
With England still to play France in the third-place play-off and Spain facing Argentina in the final, Hyperoptic advises households to check routers are positioned centrally and not hidden inside cupboards. This is particularly important where several people may be streaming, gaming, or using different devices simultaneously. Mark Bartlett, COO at Hyperoptic, said: "A house divided over what to watch shouldn’t mean anyone is stuck buffering."
Match Details
The game saw England take the lead through Anthony Gordon, before Argentina fought back with strikes from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez in Atlanta, Georgia, to reach the tournament's showpiece.
