They think it's all over...it is now! England despair at World Cup defeat
England's dreams of a World Cup win are over after heartbreak against Croatia in the semi-final.
Gareth Southgate's young Lions lost 2-1 after Mario Mandzukic buries an extra-time winner.
It means England will take part in the third place play-off against Belgium on Saturday.
Meanwhile Croatia will go on to face France in the final the following day.
MORE COVERAGE:
Croatia 2 England 1 – How we rated the players
The result dashed the hopes of the nation which will surely welcome back the team when they return.
The Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, led the tributes to the team saying they should hold their heads high.
He said: "I know how disappointed England must feel right now but I couldn’t be more proud of this team and you should hold your heads high.
"You’ve had an incredible World Cup, made history, and gave us fans something to believe in.
"We know there is more to come from this England team."
Former England international and TV broadcaster Gary Lineker was in the stadium and tweeted his disappointment.
He said: "Utterly choked, but this young side gave absolutely everything.
"It’s a huge step forward and they’ll only get better in the future.
"They can hold their heads high, they did our country proud. Congratulations to Croatia."
Wolves captain Danny Batth had been glued to the action and spoke of his pride at the team's performance.
He tweeted: "Unreal effort from the team! The country is back in love with this England team onwards and upwards."
Codsall broadcaster Jacqui Oatley had been in Russia to cover the game for ITV and took to Twitter as the result slipped away.
She said: "Don’t think I’ve ever had a sip of brandy in my life, but suddenly feel like I need one."
People across the county watched the game from living rooms and pubs.
It was too much to watch for some as the game got away for the England side.
There were even tears in some pubs as the final whistle went.
It brings to an end a rollercoaster of a ride for England in the World Cup.
Written off from the start, the team's performances slowly picked up the nation's backing with record numbers watching the knock-out games.
It brought the country together, and into pubs and shops.
Pubs reported a surge in trade while supermarkets sold off thousands more barbecues.
The party is over, but our heroes remain.
