England has come close at its last two major tournaments, but there’s a sense of staleness under Gareth Southgate heading into Qatar.
Football very nearly came home during Euro 2020. England’s men’s side was just a few missed penalty kicks away from hoisting its first major international trophy in 55 years. Italy ultimately prevailed, and the Three Lions left London’s Wembley Stadium empty-handed once again.
While the end result was disappointing, Gareth Southgate’s side really rounded into form in that tournament. The soccer wasn’t always stylish, but the squad went 480 minutes without allowing a goal. Yet the heartbreak in the final won’t be soon forgotten.