The World Cup exit of the English national team disappointed not only millions of fans - the British Royal Family also spoke out immediately after the 1-2 defeat against Argentina in the semifinal with emotional messages. Both the official Instagram account of the Royal Family and Prince William (44) honored the effort of the Three Lions.
Prince William is "devastated"
Prince William, who is patron of the English Football Association (FA) and a self-confessed soccer fan, showed himself deeply moved. In an Instagram story, the Prince of Wales wrote: "Devastated. England, you gave it your all and we are all so proud of you."
He further praised the team with the words: "Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch for an incredible tournament. The fighting spirit and belief you showed inspired us all. The most complete England team at a tournament. Hold your heads high." He signed his message with a "W", a sign that the words came personally from him.
"Remain the pride of a nation"
The Royal Family also spoke out. Accompanying a photo of captain Harry Kane (32) embracing his teammate Jude Bellingham (23) after the final whistle, it says: "Our sympathy goes to Harry and the team. Even though you Three Lions are licking your wounds today, you remain the pride of a nation - and will rise again."
England had initially taken the lead in the semifinal in Atlanta through Anthony Gordon shortly after halftime. But Argentina turned the match around with two late goals and thus advanced to the World Cup final against Spain. For England, this also burst the dream of their first World Cup final since their only title win to date in 1966.
The English will play France in the third-place match on Saturday evening. Whether Prince William will travel to Miami for this is not yet known. In case of reaching the final, the heir to the throne had previously announced that he wanted to support the Three Lions on site.
