England’s enthusiastic and lively group of supporters have consistently played a crucial role as the “12th man” in all the World Cups I’ve reported on. From a rowdy and aggressive bunch during Italia ’90, they have evolved into a well-behaved, passionate unit in South Africa, Brazil, Russia, and Qatar.
Fans are already descending on Dallas, with a noticeable increase in families, female supporters, and even school-skipping youngsters from Merseyside. One father took his children out of school for a week, turning the trip into a history lesson about Rosa Parks and JFK.
Ahead of kick-off, England supporters dutifully line up for hours to proudly display their flags across stadiums, showcasing clubs from various regions like Hartlepool, Huddersfield, Halifax, and Harlow Town.
Encountering these fans has been a delightful experience, as I proudly wear my Daily Mirror Fifa lanyard without any issues. The diverse attire, including lion costumes, St. George outfits, and royal representations, reflects the rich tapestry of England’s World Cup journey over the years.
Various iconic figures and events have left their mark on the tournament, from Diego Maradona and Geoff Hurst to amusing anecdotes like Bobby Moore’s “bracelet theft” in Colombia. Gazza’s emotional display during Italia ’90, shedding tears after a pivotal booking, remains etched in memory.
Personal encounters, such as capturing inebriated Scottish players in Italy or engaging with players like Felipe on Copacabana beach in 2014, have added unique dimensions to my World Cup experiences. Despite some painful moments, like interviewing Andres Escobar’s fiancée in Colombia, the passion and history of the tournament endure.
As a long-time observer of the World Cup, my memories span decades, from childhood recollections of the 1966 final to more recent interactions with football legends. Each fan holds cherished World Cup memories, and as a new generation embarks on this journey, the question lingers: could football finally be “coming home” for England?