Playing for 90
Fansided

7 reasons why England can win the World Cup

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

NIZHNY NOVGOROD, RUSSIA - JUNE 24: Harry Kane of England is seen with the matchball following scoring a hatrick in his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between England and Panama at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 24, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images)
NIZHNY NOVGOROD, RUSSIA - JUNE 24: Harry Kane of England is seen with the matchball following scoring a hatrick in his sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between England and Panama at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 24, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /
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ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA – JUNE 17: A fan holds a replica World Cup trophy as they enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Brazil and Switzerland at Rostov Arena on June 17, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
ROSTOV-ON-DON, RUSSIA – JUNE 17: A fan holds a replica World Cup trophy as they enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group E match between Brazil and Switzerland at Rostov Arena on June 17, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /

Twitter’s, ‘It’s coming home’ trend is ironically hilarious

Ahh, the fabled Euro ’96 song. ‘Three Lions’, aka Football’s Coming Home, was a national sport accompany piece intended to inspire the nation to victory in a humorous way. Devised, written and performed by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and The Lightning Seeds before England hosted the Euros, 22-years-ago.

Before the team capitulate at any tournament, it is rolled out unceremoniously over social media, TV, pubs and whatnot.

A catchy tune but to me, one which brings sore memories at age 11, of the arrogant German Andreas Moller spoiling our collective dreams.

Yet this tournament, the movement is a tongue-in-cheek one. The inevitable media and fan hype never arrived on social media or beer gardens around the country.

Fans quietly know they have a good, studious manager – albeit one who fits the dated FA mould. People are aware there is a fast, young, talented side. Although pressure and emphasis to triumph was absent.

Nice one, Panama

Fervent feelings occurred in England once again, as the Three Lions ran rampant against the overly physical Panama. Scoring a tournament high six in the process inspired emphasis.

Panama disgraced themselves during the first half. Jesse Lingard was in the wars mostly, receiving an elbow to the head.

In addition to overzealous challenges, poking in the face, mild head-butts and wrestling all over the pitch. All this adds to the consolidated English island mentality. Now we are up for it.

Familiar grappling in the box was gladly penalised, the first penalty dispatched by Harry Kane was possibly the best I have witnessed. The Panamanians were extremely fortunate in finishing with 11 men.

Yet second-half they seemed somewhat milder. Almost as if their manager forbade any more recklessness, opting rather for pride. Nevertheless it spurred on or restored the lion-hearted’s speculative optimism.

I now blame the Canal Men for the feeling, finally, that 52 years of hurt is coming to an end. They should have stopped me dreaming. Has anyone checked if the Jules Rimet is still gleaming?!

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