IT WAS heartbreak again for the Three Lions last night, as England crashed out of the World Cup against reigning champions France.
England were defeated 1-2 in the desert duel, in front of a 68,895 sell-out crowd in Qatar, missing out on a gilt-edged chance to reach next Sunday’s final.
France will now play Morocco – shock conquerors of Portugal yesterday afternoon – in Wednesday’s semi-final, with their dream of becoming only the third nation in history after Italy and Brazil to win successive World Cups still alive.
Gareth Southgate’s dejected Lions – who sank to the pitch in tears at the final whistle – fly home later today. Captain Harry Kane scored one penalty but missed a second that would have sent the match to extra time
But England will leave with their heads held high after impressive performances in the Qatar showpiece. Last night, fans urged manager Southgate to stay on after leading his team to successive World Cup quarter and semi-finals and the Euro 2020 final.
The Lions’ opening qualifying match for Euro 24 in Germany is just three months away – against holders Italy.
Southgate said his team had finally achieved “credibility”.
He said: “I think there’s always been a level of respect for England, but I think we’ve got credibility now.
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