There was hope - and for a small time there was joy - but England's dream of the World Cup trophy was dashed in the last few minutes of the semi-final.
On Wednesday evening (in the UK anyway), the Three Lions went head-to-head with Argentina for the semi-finals of the World Cup 2026.
At 1-0 up in the 84th minute, it looked like England were well on their way to securing a place in the finals.
But the Argentina comeback that followed soon dashed any hopes that this year would be the year it would finally come home.
We joined fans at The Malthouse in Ironbridge to watch the drama unfold.
- Photographs by Mike Sheridan
5. Nervous England fans watch on during the World Cup semi final between England and Argentina, at the Malthouse in Ironbridge
Mike Sheridan Photo: Mike Sheridan
6. Nervous England fans watch on during the World Cup semi final between England and Argentina, at the Malthouse in Ironbridge
Mike Sheridan Photo: Mike Sheridan
7. Nervous England fans watch on during the World Cup semi final between England and Argentina, at the Malthouse in Ironbridge,
Mike Sheridan Photo: Mike Sheridan
8. England fans react after Argentina take the lead during the World Cup semi final between England and Argentina, at the Malthouse in Ironbridge
Mike Sheridan Photo: Mike Sheridan