The air crackled with anticipation. It wasn’t just another football match; it was the Euro 2020 final, England versus Italy. For a nation yearning for international glory, this game represented more than just ninety minutes of football. It was a chance to rewrite history, to banish decades of near-misses and heartbreak. As kick-off approached, stories emerged from living rooms, pubs, and even distant corners of the globe, each painting a vivid picture of the collective hopes and dreams riding on this momentous occasion.
The echoes of 1966, England’s sole World Cup triumph, resonated through generations. For many older fans, it was a poignant reminder of a bygone era of national footballing dominance. Kevin Sparke, a 62-year-old warehouse worker, vividly recalled the communal joy of that victory, watching on a hired black and white television with loved ones, a memory now tinged with the bittersweet passage of time. His plan to raise a Guinness in memory of that final, while watching the current clash, highlighted the deep emotional connection spanning decades of English football fandom.
Kevin Sparke reminiscing about the 1966 World Cup final ahead of the England vs Italy Euro 2020 final.
The anticipation wasn’t confined to England’s shores. Martin Baxter, an English teacher based in Bari, Italy, found himself in the unique position of experiencing the final from enemy territory. The playful rivalry with Italian friends and students only intensified the stakes. His son, caught in a cross-cultural allegiance, symbolized the broader European tapestry woven into this sporting event. Baxter’s decision to don his lucky Umbro Bulldog Spirit T-shirt, worn during England’s quarter-final victory in Rome, underscored the personal rituals and superstitions that accompany such high-pressure games.
Martin Baxter and his son Alex, divided loyalties for the England vs Italy Euro 2020 final, pictured at the Euro 2020 quarter-finals in Rome.
Across continents, the dedication of fans knew no bounds. Mandy Leeson, a mental health practitioner in Maldon, Australia, faced early morning wake-up calls to follow England’s journey. The unwavering support, shared with her Australian husband and son, transcended time zones and geographical distances. For Leeson, the tournament became a “secret joy,” a shared experience offering a sense of unity and pride. Her admiration for players like Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling extended beyond their on-field talent, recognizing their roles as positive role models.
Mandy Leeson, an England fan in Australia, describes the early morning starts to watch the Euro 2020 games, including the final against Italy.
Moez Khan, a music teacher from Sussex, echoed the sense of national pride and the team’s unifying impact. For him, the final evoked a childlike excitement, a welcome distraction from everyday concerns. Khan lauded the team’s diverse heritage and their stance against racism, viewing their success as a positive force for societal change. The players’ ability to connect with the public on a personal level, amplified by social media, further fueled the nation’s support.
Moez Khan expresses his excitement for the England team and their impact beyond football ahead of the Euro 2020 final.
Not everyone could witness the game in celebratory settings. Jo, a midwife in Edinburgh, faced a night shift, surrounded by Scottish colleagues. Her predicament, trying to avoid spoilers and catch the replay later, highlighted the sacrifices fans make for their passion. Even in Scotland, where local loyalties might lean against England, a sense of underlying excitement was palpable.
Brady Frost, a marketer from Leeds, planned to watch the final at a local brewery, surrounded by friends. The England shirt, worn for every match except the Scotland game, became a symbol of good luck. The collective enthusiasm extended to casual football fans, drawn in by the likeable team and Gareth Southgate’s leadership. Frost’s emotional semi-final experience with family, a moment of shared joy after months of separation, encapsulated the unifying power of football.
Brady Frost, pictured in his lucky England shirt, preparing to watch the Euro 2020 final with friends in Leeds.
Across the Atlantic, Luke Dempsey, a writer in Los Angeles, made a pilgrimage back to Brooklyn, New York, to watch the final at his old haunt, the Black Horse Pub. The familiar setting, alongside Spurs-supporting owner Brian, provided a comforting sense of community amidst the high-stakes game. For Dempsey, it was a chance to reconnect with cherished memories and share the moment with a kindred spirit, honoring their mutual love for football.
Chris Mooney in Manchester opted for a marquee in his best mate Martin’s back garden, recreating the semi-final atmosphere. The sense of anticipation was tinged with cautious optimism, acknowledging England’s history of heartbreak but recognizing the current team’s depth and resilience. Pizza plans remained tentative, a humorous nod to football superstitions, as fans dared to dream of ending decades of waiting.
Chris Mooney and friends recreating their semi-final setup in a marquee for the England vs Italy Euro 2020 final in Manchester.
These personal accounts, diverse yet united by a common thread of passion, captured the essence of the England Vs Italy Euro Final. It was more than a game; it was a cultural moment, a shared experience that transcended borders and generations. Whether in packed pubs, quiet living rooms, or distant lands, fans held their breath, hoping to witness history in the making and celebrate a long-awaited victory. The final whistle, regardless of the outcome, was destined to etch itself into the memories of a nation, a testament to the enduring power of football to unite and inspire.
