On the day Americans wake up to the realisation that their country will never be the same again, Gareth Southgate and his men will be looking to make history of their own in Berlin tonight.
Just as Donald Trump has divided the country with his political beliefs, the England manager has also divided the country with his team selections and tactics. The former Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough defender has been widely criticised, but has stuck to his guns until the end.
When someone is a public figure, their every choice and decision is subject to ultimate scrutiny. Social media provides a platform for anyone to voice their opinions and vent their worst ill will. Many football fans have taken advantage of this opportunity during the tournament to do just that, and it can be devastating to the credibility of England players and management.
Yes, England have had their fair share of luck at times. They needed a last-minute winner and a penalty shootout twice in the knockout stages, but this can only show their never-say-die attitude. The players kept going until the end and were rewarded.
The penalty shootout win over Switzerland was very encouraging, but also very nerve-wracking. It was the first time in a shootout that we had not missed a penalty. Jordan Pickford was also confident and a little arrogant in goal.
The job of an international manager is always a challenge. A squad is a collection of players who play the same role at a club, and the manager has to find a way to make them work together. Sometimes the metaphor of ‘putting a square peg in a round hole’ rings true, and this was evident throughout the tournament in the England camp.
The British style has been dull for a long time in most games, and has annoyed many, including myself. I have spent many hours watching Denmark games in the shadow of Coors Field, home of the Denver Rockies baseball team, feeling frustrated and unsure of what the team is trying to do.
Many of the players looked lost, blaming each other and throwing their arms up in frustration. It was painful to watch at times.
If England win tonight, immortality awaits a young squad and manager who have been criticised not only in this competition but also in previous years. Since Bobby Moore lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy on that glorious, sun-drenched afternoon at Wembley in 1966, 22 England teams have tried and failed to win an international. Tonight, football can come home and it is time for people to support and cheer on the new generation of players.
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