#first saka and now rashford

[darlaxfurrr]

can westfence Please stop subbing players off before they can get their hattricks

[trentslfcc]

Scoreboard of the heart🤍 -

Bukayo Saka

Summary: You're at your boyfriends match, watching him play and he scores a brilliant goal. When you get home, you make sure to congratulate him.

Warnings: Smut (18+)

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Sitting at the Arsenal emirates stadium brought you a sense of proudness, watching your boyfriend play. Bukayo was a regular starter as he was a quality player, being an amazing attribute to his team. He was brilliant for his club and country, gaining the respect he deserved from fans and other players. The crowd roared as the players came out of the tunnel to stand in their team lines before shaking hands with the opposition. Today, arsenal were facing manchester united, a team you didn't like at all due to the rivalry. At the end of the day, you would always back your man. Your team had been doing well as of late, balancing on top of the table with manchester city only one point behind. If they won this game, they would be four points clear. Liverpool weren't far behind either being two points away. So with that being said, the pressure was on as the season was coming to a close very soon. Arsenal were the favourites to win it but being favourites didn't mean anything as if they lost today, as focus would shift on to the two teams just below you. Coming from north london, you had been an Arsenal fan all your life. Your father would have kicked you out if you weren't, as he told you himself. Imagine his relief when he found out the player you were dating was Bukayo Saka. You had met him unexpectedly about four years and you two hit it off immediately. It was love at first sight. Now you guys had a house together, planning a wedding and talking about your future. He loved how supportive you were and how reassuring you were when he lost a match. You both couldn't be more grateful to God that He had led you to one another and blessed your lives forever. Bukayo had spoken to you about how important this match was to him, hoping and praying that his team would win which you knew they could.

The players were now stood in their position, waiting for the referee's whistle to blow so that the match could finally begin and once it had, tensions were up in the air. Arsenal started off strong, managing to get past united's back line as not even 5 minutes in, there was already a shot on target but unfortunately, it was caught by the keeper, not hitting the back of the net. This caused the fans to groan but optimism was still present as the game had just begun and they knew the quality of their players. By the 15' minute, chances were being created by the red devils but to no avail as Saliba and Gabriel made sure to stop any oncoming attackers. It was visible that Rashford was trying his best, however your team was stronger. Saka was a crucial part of the squad which was evident by his runs and his ability to see through the defence of the opposition, cutting through them regularly. He was just perfect, wasn't he? When it had been 30 minutes, the united players started losing their pace a little bit, trying not concede a goal in the first half so it could further their chances of atleast getting a draw, but to their dismay, Saka charged through their defence for was seemed like the eighth time, rapidly passed the ball to Havertz who was closer to the net than he was, resulting in a beautiful goal. Instantly, joy and celebrations could be heard across the stands. Saka had delivered a brilliant assist. The score remained 1-0 to Arsenal up to halftime.

During halftime, you scrolled through instagram comments and fan pages dedicated to your club to read about what people thought of your boyfriend's performance so far. You were proud of his assist, knowing he could do more. He had such a positive impact on the team and the people around him. It was something that emphasised how in love you were with him. The fans loved him so much aswell and you knew that they would defend him everytime someone said anything negative about him. You knew how much this match meant to the players, fans, the manager and staff, they just needed to stay one step ahead of man united and they would be clear.

The stands got louder as the players were making their way out the tunnel again for the second half of the match. A win was never promised, but it could be predicted. The reason for this being that Arsenal were just as strong as they had been in the first half, if not stronger, only a few minutes into the second 45 minutes. Ten hag's words must have not been very influential as manchester united were lacking once again. To be fair to them, your team was one of the best right now and it was difficult for any team to beat them. Chances and chances were being created with Rice making sure to run in forward as usual. Saka was desperate for a goal and it was very noticeable. He was hungry for the win. In the 53' minute, he flew past the red devil's defence, a normal occurrence this evening, so that he could be in front of Rice who currently had the ball at his feet. He didn't even think before passing the ball to Saka who hit the back of the net, hitting it past the keeper and causing the crowd to go crazy. You knew he could do it.

"That's my man." You jumped up out of your seat as soon as the ball went in, satisfied with his performance today. Not only had he assisted, but he had also scored an amazing goal. He could only be proud of himself. He celebrated by doing a knee slide out of adrenaline, getting up after and hugging his teammates who had gathered around him. You blushed when he blew you a kiss from all the way on the pitch. What a man he was.

The match continued smoothly as he kept focus throughout. There was no way united were going to get their get back now, as it was nearly impossible for them to do so. When it had reached the 85' minute, the opposing players looked as if they had given up and so did Ten Hag. As the final whistle blew, the stands sung and cheered for their team. Full time result: 2-0 to Arsenal.

After the match had ended, you waited for Bukayo to get his phone back so that he could text you when to meet him at your usual place. You were going to hug him tightly and pepper him with kisses. He deserved it. You also posted on instagram to taunt the man united fans because why not? Your boyfriend messaged you soon after telling you to come at meet him near the changing rooms as he was ready to leave now and go home. So were you.

"I'm so proud of you." You ran up to him, beaming at what he had done this evening. You couldn't help but jump into his arms which made him smile from ear to ear. He loved you so much, it was insane. He planted a peck on your lips, showing you that he appreciated your support, as always and carried you in his arms towards the car. "I love you so much."

"I love you baby." He returned with a gaze of love. There was no way you weren't going to congratulate him properly when you got home, but you couldn't let him know that. He was a simple man. He won, he only wanted to be with you. He lost, he only wanted to be with you. He always needed you. You were his rock.

When you got in the car, you were impatiently waiting to get home. Why was he such a slow driver? It was unbelievable sometimes. Bukayo saw your slight annoyance as he turned to you quickly, causing him to chuckle at you.

"Why do you look annoyed?" He asked you innocently. You were getting closer and closer to your home, thankfully.

"I'm not." You masked your irritation. As he was a careful observer and protective boyfriend, could you really blame him for not being the fastest? At least he was keeping you safe.

After an hour, you had finally arrived home. You were excited for what was about to happen next, something he was still unaware about but you knew he would have no problem with. As soon as you opened the door, you dragged him inside and locked it behind you. Your lips pressed against his immediately, resulting in a make out session on the couch. He was the most beautiful man on earth. Just kissing him made your pussy wet. It was uncontrollable. As your kiss got more and more passionate, you could feel him growing underneath you until he was at his maximum. You began grinding yourself on him, rocking your hips back and forth and in circles. He couldn't help but groan, feeling the consequences of your actions and absolutely loving how you felt on him. The things you did to him was unexplainable. There was absolutely no one else that could rev him up the way you did. Your lips were still connected as he started taking off your clothes gently. Your moans highlighted how good your clit felt rubbing against his hard cock. Once you ripped his shirt off, he moved down and began kissing your neck, making the noises that released from your mouth louder unintentionally. Bukayo was the type of man that had to always make sure you felt good and comfortable before he would have sex with you, which was shown when he pulled away and asked you if 'everything was okay'. He was the sweetest ever. There was no one like him. You nodded, pulling him back in for a deep kiss while continuing to grind on him.

"You feel so good baby." He spoke, using his hands to help you even though you didn't need help. Before you could pull him into another kiss, he gently lifted you up and so that he could take off your panties and skirt and then his sweatpants and boxers. As soon as you were both naked, you softly sat down on his dick while he held on to your waist. You gasped feeling your pussy stretch out because of his big cock. You didn't even need foreplay, you just needed it inside you, which he very much knew. "You feel so good." He groaned at how warm you felt. It was amazing with him as always. Bouncing up and down on his cock, your tits moved in unison with your body, making you even sexier to him. Your moans were amazing as he could tell they were genuine and he could tell how much you enjoyed his cock.

"You like this baby?" He asked you in a low voice, making sure everything was okay even though he knew that you were in ecstasy. This was something that made you feel even more loved as most men weren't like this. You had one of the good ones. A rare one. Only to yourself.

"Y-yess." You managed to let out as his cock hit your g-spot. It always hit the right places. It was so easy for Bukayo to make you cum.

Riding him was one of your favourite sex positions and his also, you hadn't even noticed the time when you were getting closer and closer to reaching your high. You could feel that sensation in your stomach about to release all over his cock as he felt your pussy clench around him.

"Cum for me gorgeous." He commanded you before you both came at the same time. That was incredible. The dick was good as usual. You remained on him, whilst he pulled you back into a kiss, wanting to feel your lips on his again.

This was the man you wanted to grow old with and the man you would do anything for. He loved you more than words could express and you loved him enormously. He was your soulmate.

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I'm a liverpool fan as you guys know 🤍🫶🏽 YNWA so it pained me to write this😭 jk, but I like Saka so it's fineee

And as you guys know, all my main characters are black woman and Saka has a gf so why not use Tolami as the main character? Sorry if i made any spelling mistakes x

Hope you guys enjoyed🤍🤍

[realmadridfamily]

Mili played good match but missed penalty and now he is being attacked in Brazil and they even say that he is a weak player! I don't understand how someone can criticize their own player for such a reason. I have a flashback with Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford situation :(

Most of these people are Karoline fans who are happy about this penalty and have never seen Militao in Real Madrid :) If anyone criticizes him, I just want to remind that this guy missed the entire season due to a serious injury and is not 100% ready to play yet. The fact that he played at all at the Copa America and did it reasonably well (although it's still not his level because he's just getting to his disposal) is already something that deserves respect and makes us think that there's no one better in Brazil, since he has to play. Is he the only one in the world who missed a penalty? I read a comment that he should learn it first, but what about Messi then? Is he suddenly weak too because he missed a penalty at this tournament? xD I love people who have no idea about football, don't watch the matches, but sit on the forum and attack footballers because they don't like them. I understand that someone doesn't like Militao because of his private life and his ridiculous fight with Karoline, but his career and the way he plays is something completely different. They don't see the real problem in Brazil. They change coaches who are not fit to manage such players. Look at the situation before the penalty shootout when the players did not allow the coach to speak! They decided everything themselves, I mean, what the hell?! O.o There is no one there to manage them well and use their potential. Players who usually play in Europe in serious clubs will never play at the same level in the national team since the training staff will be amateurs. They are used to something different.

[cryingforcrocodiles]

now that united's season is over i'm going to be rating how dick hardening some of matches were. thanks for sticking around. here's my season journey through slideshows n reaction memes bascially. this is the first 9.

this is a lot words so i expect no one to read these. this slide are poor quality but atp ... just enjoy the experience. vibe twin jst vibe

the first prem match of the season. united loves disappointment as per usual so i feel like... most of us were like "ha okay this is a disgrace but wow i knew it this would happen deep down." but not this bad holy shit. but [gestures to picture] i think own goals are amazing when we're not the own getting goaled so i had a little fun with this one. also "Erik ten Hag is the first Manchester United manager to lose his first Premier League game in charge since Louis van Gaal in August 2014 against Swansea City." is an amazing way to sum up the season in a whole. breaking real records...

i had to sedate myself. and the kits were ugly.

🔥🔥🔥🔥 NO LINEUP BC WE DOMINATED AND DON'T HAVE TO DEMEAN OURSELVES. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 ARENT WE THE BEST CLUB IN THE WORLD??? SANCHO ON THE SCORESHEET 🔥🔥🔥 NO ONE CAN BEAT US (UNLESS YOU'RE OUTSIDE THE BIG SIX) 🔥🔥🔥.

not much to say about this one tbh. j-ward is going to hell. not for anything he did this match but i'm just letting yk. 3 points! onechester united.

sancho said "these niggas are so boring" and finally snuck a goal. thank you sancho i live and breathe you. onechester united x2

THREECHESTER UNITED. saka gives arsenal hope but rashy crushes it. rashford brace 💖 ... all rashford fcers were having the time of their life (I WAS SO FUCKING HAPPY!!). rashford had 3 goals at this point. 3 points.

i like watching penalties even if its against me. adrenaline Mhm. but otherwise whatever it's the groupstage n first one. so. i didn't rlly care. spanish teams beat and own our ass so. another day! moving on.

i meant to put FC in there but i forgot. so it's just "the sancho" except "the sancho fc" well. yes sancho goals make the planet go round and round. that's why the world stopped after fulham match.

4 bc the goals were nice ig. but getting hattricked by a norwegian and the devil himself was enough to get some tears out of me. you'd get teary jerky too. also streak ended but 🔥🔥🔥 manchester is still red

[uniteds]

The thing you said about academy players is so true. Another thing I noticed is the way fans refuse to acknowledge that their academy players are good and will always hype up someone else

no like that’s what I mean. Like when they first break through there’s a lot of hype (see: Hannibal’s first match, Garnacho last season, Rashford’s first season, etc) but then eventually those same players get shit on SO MUCH. they’ll pull some random ass player from some random ass club as being better instead of just. liking their academy players.

like I promise it’s okay if you’re fond of the player that’s been at your club since they were 5. I promise you don’t need to hype up every single player on the planet as better than [insert player here]. I’ve mostly seen it with rashford in my circles but I know every club has that player, except the ones that don’t bother with the academy. I’d say the only reason Saka has escaped it up till now is Arsenal have managed expectations but they’ve done with every single one before him too.

for fans of clubs that are cash strapped but have good academies, it’s the bitterness at their rivals spending money that they lash out on academy players bc they’re free. for fans of clubs that do have a lot of money and spend freely, it’s this idea that the academy player is stealing a spot from a superstar they could buy. but then they leave and suddenly [insert club] dna matters even if you’ve treated them like shit and were overly critical for years before

[ailtrahq]

With the introduction of the Sorare App’s AR functionality, fans can now take their virtual football experience beyond the screen and into their everyday lives. Web3 fantasy sports platform Sorare has announced the launch of its 3D digital football player cards with built-in Augmented Reality (AR) features. This bold move aims to revolutionize the way fans interact with their favorite football players and take fantasy sports to a whole new level. Sorare Unveils a New Era of Fantasy Sports Interaction To celebrate this groundbreaking development, Sorare is hosting its inaugural auction of 3D digital football player cards, commencing on September 13. The spotlight of this auction will be on stars from the English Premier League, including Erling Haaland, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka. The 2023/24 season promises to be a landmark moment in Sorare’s journey, and fans can expect nothing less than a revolution in the sports fan experience. Sorare has always been at the forefront of innovation, and this latest announcement is no exception. Through this new innovation, Sorare seeks to inject more emotion and desirability into its already popular platform. A spokesperson for Sorare emphasized in a recent report stating that “by making these cards 3D, with an AR feature, we want to bring more emotion in our cards and make them more desirable for all sports fans.” The introduction of 3D digital football player cards adds a whole new layer of depth and immersion to the Sorare experience. Instead of flat, static images, users will now have access to lifelike, three-dimensional representations of their favorite football stars. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a more authentic connection between fans and the players they support. What truly sets Sorare’s 3D digital football player cards apart is the integration of AR. With the introduction of the Sorare App’s AR functionality, fans can now take their virtual football experience beyond the screen and into their everyday lives. Sorare Introduces Global Scavenger Hunt Additionally, Sorare has introduced a global Scavenger Hunt that promises participants a “once-in-a-lifetime trip” as the grand prize. The heart of the Scavenger Hunt lies in the world of crypto, specifically Ethereum (ETH). Participants will embark on a quest to uncover hidden words that, when pieced together, will unlock a key to an Ethereum wallet. This wallet holds the treasure, and the lucky winner who unravels the mystery will embark on a unique adventure that awaits. Over the course of the next seven days, Sorare will release teaser videos containing cryptic clues to aid participants in their quest. The first video, filmed in the vibrant city of London, was unveiled on Sorare’s social media platforms, signaling the start of this thrilling adventure. Each video promises to be a visual delight while also providing essential hints to guide participants on their journey. Sorare’s Scavenger Hunt is a smart move to widen its appeal to a broader audience of sports lovers, including those who may be unfamiliar with the intricacies of crypto This endeavor comes on the heels of Sorare’s recent launch of an in-game currency wallet, which allows users to buy and sell cards using fiat money, making it more accessible and user-friendly for everybody. Thank you! You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Source

[hardynwa]

Tony Adams names Bukayo Saka best player apart from Messi

Former Arsenal captain Tony Adams has claimed that England star Bukayo Saka is the best player in world football apart from World Cup winner Lionel Messi. Saka, who has been Mikel Arteta’s talisman at the Emirates this season with 22 goal contributions in 28 league appearances, is bidding to clinch Arsenal’s first title in two decades – and is impressing on the international stage as well. Continuing to impress under England boss Gareth Southgate, the 21-year-old winger netted a glorious goal from outside the box against Ukraine on Sunday, helping the Three Lions remain at the top of their Euro 2024 qualifying group with a 2-0 victory, Mail Online reports. Arsenal legend Adams can only think of one player in world football better than Saka right now, and he’s long been considered one of the greatest players of all time. During his column for The Sun, Adams said, “If there’s a better player in world football at the moment, someone who both scores and makes goals, the only one I can think of is Lionel Messi. “Bukayo is absolutely on fire and the reason Arsenal are top of the table. “Erling Haaland might be scoring hundreds of goals for Manchester City and Marcus Rashford is also having a phenomenal season for United. “But Bukayo is, hands down, the Footballer of the Year because he was England’s best player at the World Cup and he’s been the best player for the team eight points clear at the top of the Premier League.” Read the full article

[opiatemasses]

Never-ending racist football

A few facts – approximately 25% of professional footballers in england are black, only 10 asian profesionals, only one Asian coach out of 522 senior football coaches in UK, in 2014 only four managers of colour out of 92 teams, in the season of 93/94 they found only 1% of football fans were non-white. In the 2019 premier leauge, racism reports increased by 43%. In the 2014/15 season, Kick it Out identified 95,000 discriminatory posts directed at EPL teams, Mario Ballotelli recieving more than 8,000 discrimnatory posts. Racism in football started more than 100 years ago and its not stopping. “White privilege manifests itself in everyone and no one. Everyone is complicit, but no one wants to take on responsibility. Challenging it can have real social implications” – a quote from Renni Eddo’s book, ‘Why I’m no longer talking to white people about race’.

This racism in football isn’t just within UK, for example in the Euros 2020, Hungary fans were known all tournament for racism abuse against opposing teams, UEFA ordered Hungary to play three home games behind closed doors due to their fans, however against England they allowed up to 67,000 home supporters in. And guess what? Straight from the first whistle, the racism abuse started, the England players took a knee to protest against racism which initiated the booing from the fans further on later in the game led to cups, bottles and flares being thrown at the England players where Raheem Sterling Jude Bellingham were both targeted. The question is why did FIFA and UEFA not prevent this? Why did they allow the fans into the stadium? All of this could have been easily prevented. Institutional racism?

“When you score you’re English. When you miss, you’re an immigrant” This was displayed in the 2020 Euros, throughout the successful campaign the nation came together and we cheered on England with pride on the streets and online, it was a beautiful time to be an England football fan and signs of racism in English football were going away. In the penalty shoot-out of the final we lost to Italy, straight away three young black players, Rashford, Sancho and Saka get hit with extreme racism mainly through the form of social media with some shocking posts including monkey emojis and people saying things such as “go back where you belong” etc. You can see from the Figure 1 an example of the racist comments after this game. What’s even worse is that most of these racist accounts are still active on Instagram and twitter. Twitter had removed over 1,000 tweets however did not comment on the number of accounts suspended or deleted. How hard can it be? 1 button to disable a racist individuals account? MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE.

Don’t get me wrong, over the years racism within football has come a long way and is managed better through the FA and organisations such as Kick It Out, however recent years has seen an increase in football-related racist content on social media – 95,000 discriminatory posts. Daniel Kilvington and John Price did research on this in 2019 where they interviewed officials from Kick It Out and the PFA. Kick it Out works directly with FA concerning face-to-face racism. What’s interesting is, it’s not the same story in terms of social media meaning the FA are not aware of the problems on social media abuse – the fact the FA don’t do this indicates they are ignorant of the problem of racism on social media. Now listen to this, the FA invested £125 million across football in 2016, Premier League clubs generated revenues of more than £3.6 billion – Kick It Out in 2016 had an annual income of £811,000 with only £601,000 coming from FA, Premier League, and PFA. It’s bloody clear they don’t take it seriously. Moving forwards, it is essential key stakeholders need to unify and together start challenging racism within football both in reality and social media. People need to speak up, sanctions need to get consequential, FA need to step up, Kick It Out need resources. MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE.

Lastly, I would like to thank you for reading my blog, hopefully it’s been able to widen your knowledge of this issue within English football. Personally, going forward, I think key stakeholders such as FA need to start providing a proactive and clear role in providing support on this issue, definitely some mandatory social media training for athletes in how they should manage this issue and not let it affect them, the work of Kick It Out needs to be properly funded and not just less than 1% of key stakeholders revenue, sanctions and punishments need to get more consequential for people displaying racist attitudes. Things we can do as the public to help this matter; we can socially make a change by changing mindsets, calling out people around you with these mindsets, getting behind and supporting the Kick It Out campaign, reporting any online abuse on social media etc. Let’s make a change!

N0859434

For more information on racism in football here are a few resources you can access:

Tackling Social Media Abuse? Critically Assessing English Football’s Response to Online Racism (sagepub.com)

Two decades a little changeAM_KILVINGTON.pdf (leedsbeckett.ac.uk)

Racism In The World Of Football (wordpress.com)

Here is a link for the Kick It Out website where you can find different ways in how you can support:

Kick It Out

[calacuspr]

This England team has shown us all what the power of sport really means

There have been a few times in recent years where the entire nation has appeared united and optimistic – and almost all of them have been connected to sport.

The World Cup in Italy in 1990, the EURO 96 in England and the London 2012 Olympic Games all come to mind as moments that will endure as epochs that transcend everything else going on in the world.

England has been particularly divided in recent years as the Leave and Remain factions argue; the challenges facing the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic; and the economic struggles that so many have encountered pretty much since the financial collapse a decade ago.

At Calacus, we work with organisations who see the value of sport to positively transform society and the England team has shown that throughout the build-up to EURO 2020 and beyond, they have brought the nation together in a way little else can.

Granted, it helped that England did so well, reaching the final of the tournament. It is hardly a new phenomenon that the squad is so multi-cultural, with players with family heritage from around the world.

While the aftermath of the defeat to Italy has shown the unpalatable side of society, the way in which the England manager and players have conducted themselves has been a masterclass in authentic communications.

STAY TRUE TO YOUR VALUES

Taking the knee has been part of football tradition in England for more than a year now, highlighting inequality and promoting diversity.

The England team have been criticised by many, with the Conservative MP for Ashfield, Lee Anderson, announcing that he would not watch “his beloved England team” while the players took the knee; Home Secretary Priti Patel suggesting that it was nothing more than “gesture politics.” and Prime Minister Boris Johnson refusing to criticise those who booed the team.

Given the racism that the likes of Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling and others have suffered, particularly from online trolls, it’s remarkable that politicians sought to condemn them and accuse the team of Marxist tendencies and BLM affiliation rather than a compassionate plea for solidarity and equality over division.

England defender Tyrone Mings said: “Everyone’s entitled to their opinions. The home secretary is one of many, many people who oppose us taking the knee or refuse to defend it . . . we [have tried] to educate and inform the minority who refuse to acknowledge why we take the knee and want to boo it.”

Notably, the boos faded as the EURO 2020 tournament progressed and the team got to the later stages and it speaks volumes that many of those politicians who criticised the team then tried to associate themselves with them through staged photography that fooled no one.

CELEBRATE INCLUSION

This England team are no strangers to speaking up for those who don’t have a voice.

Marcus Rashford has campaigned for an end to child hunger and has twice forced the government to make u-turns over free school meals.

Raheem Sterling, one of the stars of the tournament for England and who has been vilified himself by media and fans alike, has fought hard to call out bigotry in the fight against racism.

EURO 2020 started during Pride month and saw players wear rainbow laces and captains use rainbow armbands, despite some mixed messaging from UEFA.

When England played Germany in the round of 16, captain Harry Kane joined his counterpart Manuel Neuer in wearing a rainbow armband with England's official Twitter account saying: “@HKane will join @DFB_Team 's Manuel Neuer in wearing a rainbow captain’s armband for tomorrow’s game at @wembleystadium to mark the end of Pride month, as the #ThreeLions stand in allyship with LGBTQ+ communities around the world.”

Kane himself explained: “From our point of view, it is a show of solidarity with the German national team from all of us at the England national team to be united in trying to kick out all inequalities there are. We’re on a huge platform on a big stage so it is obviously a great opportunity to do so.”

Jordan Henderson has shown himself to be a captain on and off the field, supporting local charities during lockdown as well as leading his Liverpool team to success over recent years.

He is thought to be one of the main drivers behind the team planning to donate its EURO 2020 prize money to good causes.

Their donation – which could be in the millions – will be made to NHS charities now that the football tournament has concluded.

The team made a statement last May which said: “Following positive discussions with the FA, the England senior men's squad are pleased to confirm that a significant donation from their international match fees will be made to NHS Charities Together via the #PlayersTogether initiative.

“This contribution will be taken from a fund already set aside to support a variety of worthy causes using all match fees collated since September 2018.”

While England supporters still let themselves down by booing national anthems at times during the tournament, it shows the progress that this England team has prompted that Joe White, an England fan who co-chairs Gay Gooners, Arsenal’s LGBT+ supporters group, attended the England v Germany match at Wembley Stadium “in full makeup.”

They wore red lipstick, shimmery eyeshadow and mascara along with a rainbow flag and England flag painted on their face to complete the look.

They tweeted: “This is a really small and personal point but today was my first game at Wembley in full makeup and overtly queer (as opposed to just camp). Absolutely no issues from fans and some lovely chats.

“Despite being absolutely petrified pre game, really proud of our fans”

Henderson responded: “Hi Joe great to hear you enjoyed the game as you should. No one should be afraid to go and support their club or country because football is for everyone no matter what. Thanks for your support, enjoy the rest of the Euros.”

How refreshing that the LGBTQ+ community can now support the national team with no fear of abuse or intimidation and that the Three Lions Pride can display positive banners – understandably celebrating Henderson’s goal against Ukraine.

ENCOURAGE TEAMWORK

England manager Gareth Southgate arguably had one of the most talented England squads in recent memory.

The team’s headquarters at St George’s Park became a centre of fun with photocalls featuring the likes of Bukayo Saka jumping into a pool on a flying unicorn inflatable and Ed Sheeran playing a special concert for the team not to mention a preview showing of Top Gun Maverick and call with its star Tom Cruise.

While early on, there was uproar among fans over players who had been left out of the starting XI or even the squad, with flair giving way to pragmatism, Southgate showed how much the team ethic mattered to him.

After the 4-0 victory over Ukraine, Southgate paid tribute to the members of his squad who had not featured much during the tournament.

He said: “I am thinking about the players who I had to leave out of the 23 because they have been such a massive part of what we’re doing. It is so difficult to keep a group of this size feeling valued and yet those guys have been phenomenal about how they have sacrificed themselves for the group.

"I feel the responsibility keenly. But it is these challenges that make us."

Not once during the tournament did any stories leak of disgruntled players, while the players reflected the afore-mentioned values by resisting well-trodden paths of nationalism that previous encounters with the likes of Germany may have engendered.

In fact, this England team have shown dignity in the face of criticism and the very definition of what it means to be a team – there are no egos, no vested interests.

Where once supporting England meant violence and xenophobia, this England team has inspired a new identity with a commitment to diversity, inclusion and a more tolerant society, which is a credit to them all.

SHOW REAL LEADERSHIP

It was quite telling when, during the celebrations following England’s win over Denmark, former international Gary Neville said: “The standard of the leaders in the past couple of years in this country has been poor but look at that man there... he’s everything a leader should be: respectful, humble, tells the truth, genuine. He’s fantastic, Gareth Southgate.”

Southgate has been humble, engaging, honest and resolute that he knew what he wanted to do and would not waver, even when senior politicians criticised some of the decisions made by him and his management team.

Ahead of the tournament, in an essay on patriotism, titled Dear England, Southgate linked football and national identity and underlined why the game means so much more than just sporting excellence.

“I have a responsibility to the wider community to use my voice, and so do the players. It’s their duty to continue to interact with the public on matters such as equality, inclusivity and racial injustice, while using the power of their voices to help put debates on the table, raise awareness and educate.

“On this island, we have a desire to protect our values and traditions – as we should – but that shouldn’t come at the expense of introspection and progress.”

Southgate has been calm and assured throughout his tenure, ensuring that he and the team are consistent in their focus, messaging and conduct. There have been no scandals, no drama and every press conference or media opportunity has been assured and engaging.

FACE ADVERSITY HEAD-ON

Losing on penalties is part of football, but it’s also something that England have encountered at a number of major tournaments.

The backlash after England’s defeat was brutal, with the three players who missed penalties, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka all targets of racist abuse.

Some MPs also used the defeat as an opportunity to tell players to keep out of politics, such as Andrew Rosindell, who tweeted: “We are all proud of our England team, who have had the support of the whole country over recent weeks, but please focus of football, not politics. If you win for England, you win for everyone!”

Home Secretary Priti Patel expressed her outrage at the racism, prompting Mings to again address her double standards.

He said: “You don’t get to stoke the fire at the beginning of the tournament by labelling our anti-racism message as ‘Gesture Politics’ & then pretend to be disgusted when the very thing we’re campaigning against, happens.”

Soon after the game, the mural in tribute to Rashford was vandalised, prompting hundreds of positive messages and fans voicing their support for the Manchester United forward.

Rashford tweeted: ““I’ve grown into a sport where I expected to read things written about myself. Whether it be the colour of my skin, where I grew up, or, most recently, how I decide to spend my time off the pitch.

“I dreamt of days like this. The messages I’ve received today have been positively overwhelming and seeing the response in Withington had me on the verge of tears. The communities that always wrapped their arms around me continue to hold me up.

“I’m Marcus Rashford, 23-year-old black man from Withington and Wythenshawe, South Manchester. If I have nothing else I have that. For all the kind messages thank you. I’ll be back stronger. We’ll be back stronger.”

CONCLUSION

The England team have shown without doubt the power of sport to unify – and while EURO 2020 is now over, we have the Olympic Games coming up where athletes will come together in the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

As Southgate put it: “The reality is that the result is just a small part of it. When England play, there’s much more at stake than that.

“It’s about how we conduct ourselves on and off the pitch, how we bring people together, how we inspire and unite, how we create memories that last beyond the 90 minutes. That last beyond the summer. That last forever.”

While the positivity has proved to be a brief moment in time, the England squad showed society how to empathise, respect and engage in a way that has been in short supply for so long.

[ballplayersxo]

They honestly need to ban England nt for a while......the fans cannot behave like this and ABSOLUTELY NOTHING happens.....I knew this was gonna happen but it exceeded how far I thought these rabid animals were gonna go.....all tournament long they've been so despicable.....from booing the German team during their national anthem, to bullying that little German girl who was obviously upset her team lost, to storming the stadium, to rioting whether their team wins or loses, to now the racial abuse saka, rashford, sancho and even sterling are facing.....🤮.....I am even shocked they're taking it out through physical abuse of some of their partners...verbally abusing random Black people who are supporting their country just like them.....I am truly worried for anyone who's not white in England right now.....they threw a black man in a lake, threw one on the train tracks.....stabbed 15 people....just wow......and don't get me started on the coach....his decision making during that final was unbelievable.....how do you sub in the most important players like 10 minutes before the game ends???? He put in rashford less than a minute before the end of overtime and expected him to peak....and the penalty shooting....it's already bad enough the goalie isn't favourable in this situation but the lineup?!?.....you put a 19 year old who's gonna shoot for the FIRST time in a FINAL?!? then add 2 freshly legal players who haven't even warmed up over the veterans???? I had to side eye Southgate.....Overall disgusted with the fans inability to be proud at how far their national team has come

they actually have to do something about the hooliganism by football fans in england because the things i saw were horrifying. just disgusting. their actions during this tournament, and all the time honestly cause they act the same when it comes to club football, is just nasty. uefa are a very unserious organization because by now i’d expect that they’d actually take some kind of action whether it’s banning fans for life or something else. it’s awful. and i’m telling you southgate is the biggest opp because how convenient was it that he set up the two white players to kick first & second, and then the 3 black players to kick next. i feel like he set the 3 up as scapegoats in case things went left and guess where things went? that fool benched sancho for basically the whole tournament because he was “too young and inexperienced”… but it made sense for him to kick a crucial penalty? it must be baked beans for brains. and those fools boris, priti, & the kensington royals had the AUDACITY to speak up against the racism, but hello? what have you idiots perpetuated all this time? the call is coming from inside the house. it’s just a bunch of idiots all around tbh

[bongaboi]

Italy: EURO 2020 Champions

Gianluigi Donnarumma denied Bukayo Saka and Jadon Sancho, while Marcus Rashford hit the post as Italy edged a penalty shoot-out dripping in tension to overcome England in the UEFA EURO 2020 final.

England had a dream start to their first ever EURO showpiece, Luke Shaw thumping in a fine goal inside two minutes to light up Wembley. Yet Italy slowly found their feet and midway through the second half Leonardo Bonucci found the net. On to extra time, and then penalties, where both goalkeepers saved two; history, though, belongs to Donnarumma the victor.

Match in brief

"It is important we make a good start," Roberto Mancini had said on the eve of Italy's fourth EURO final. What ensued was anything but. With less than two minutes on the clock, Harry Kane spread a pass out wide to surprise starter Kieran Trippier, and his delightful cross was met by a crisp left-footed half-volley from the stealthy Shaw. England rejoiced.

If the atmosphere was electric before, it was enough to power half of north London once the goal went in. The Azzurri were shocked but showed their mettle as they regrouped, gained a foothold and started stringing passes together. Only the final pass, the final shot let them down – not always by much, with the excellent Federico Chiesa whistling a shot just wide before the break.

The pressure was ratcheted up after half-time and eventually it told. Domenico Berardi's corner caused all manner of problems, and though Jordan Pickford pushed Marco Verratti's header onto the post, Bonucci was there to prod in. Italy came again and again. But England held on. Into extra time we went, and then penalties, which seesawed back and forth.

Pickford denied Andrea Belotti and Jorginho; Rashford struck the post and Sancho, also introduced on 120 minutes, was denied by Donnarumma. Saka, the youngest man on the pitch, could have taken it to sudden death, but Donnarumma guessed right and, once and for all, England's unofficial anthem Sweet Caroline was silenced.

For a generation of Italy fans, the good times really have never seemed so good.

Star of the Match: Leonardo Bonucci (Italy)

Star of the Match: Leonardo Bonucci

"Such a strong defensive performance from the 34-year-old. Great distribution out from the back and the all-important equaliser."

Packie Bonner, UEFA Technical Observer

Check out every Heineken Star of the Match at UEFA EURO 2020.

Paolo Menicucci, Italy reporter

Facing England at Wembley was not enough; Italy also conceded an early goal to make their task even more difficult. A normal team could have lost the game there and then. But this is not a normal team. The Azzurri never lost focus and courage, and eventually equalised through Bonucci. They took control of the midfield and their penalty shoot-out win was just reward for their performance and great character.

Simon Hart‏, England reporter

Luke Shaw (R) celebrates his early goal

Luke Shaw (R) celebrates his early goal

UEFA via Getty Images

England made the perfect start, yet that feels a long time ago after the way Italy took control in the second period. There were echoes of the Russia 2018 semi-final loss to Croatia: an early lead but then domination by the opposition. Even the equaliser came at roughly the same time. For Southgate, a more painful echo too was the hurt of another EURO shoot-out defeat at Wembley. Yet his team have travelled further than any England side for 55 years and given their supporters so many reasons for optimism once tonight's hangover has cleared.

Reaction

Roberto Mancini, Italy coach: "The guys were amazing. I have no words for them; this is a wonderful squad. This game was always going to be difficult, and after their early goal even more so, but we dominated from then on. You have to have a little luck on penalties and I'm a little sorry for England because they also played a great tournament."

Donnarumma: 'It's an incredible dream'

Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy goalkeeper: "We have done something extraordinary. We are delighted. We didn't give them an inch. You all know where we started. We are a fantastic team and we deserve this."

Gareth Southgate, England coach: "We are hugely disappointed. I think the players have been an absolute credit; they have given everything they possibly could. Tonight was exactly the same; they have run themselves into the ground."

Harry Kane, England captain: "The boys couldn't have given more. Penalties are the worst feeling in the world when you lose. It's been a fantastic tournament – we should be proud, hold our heads up high. It's going to hurt now, it's going to hurt for a while."

The moment Italy lifted EURO trophy

Key stats

Italy are the fourth side to win multiple EURO titles after Germany (3), Spain (3) and France (2). The 53-year gap between their titles is the longest in EURO history.

Italy are the first side to win two penalty shoot-outs at a single EURO finals tournament.

Bonucci (34 years and 71 days) is the oldest player to score in a EURO final.

Shaw's opener was clocked at 1:56, the fastest goal in a EURO final and fifth quickest in tournament history.

This was the seventh EURO final to go to extra time (after 1960, 1968, 1976, 1996, 2000 and 2016) and the second to go to a shoot-out (1976).

Jorginho adds to his 2020/21 silverware

Jorginho adds to his 2020/21 silverware

Getty Images

Chelsea's Jorghino is only the tenth player to feature on the winning side in the European Cup and EURO in the same year.

Italy are 34 matches unbeaten, dating back to September 2018.

Italy had not conceded the first goal in any of their previous 18 outings before the final.

The Azzurri have conceded more than once in just one of their last 21 EURO finals matches.

Bonucci made his 18th EURO finals appearance, an Italian record. Giorgio Chiellini joined Gianluigi Buffon on 17.

Harry Kane made his 11th EURO finals appearance, matching the England record of Gary Neville.

Getty Images

Line-ups

Italy: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bonucci, Chiellini, Emerson (Florenzi 118); Barella (Cristante 54), Jorginho, Verratti (Locatelli 96); Chiesa (Bernardeschi 86), Immobile (Berardi 55), Insigne (Belotti 91)

England: Pickford; Walker (Sancho 120), Stones, Maguire; Trippier (Saka 70), Rice (Henderson 74; Rashford 120), Phillips, Shaw; Mount (Grealish 99), Sterling; Kane

What's next?

Italy could end 2021 with two trophies as they are also through to October's UEFA Nations League Finals on home turf. They face Spain in the semi-finals, and a repeat of their last-four win at UEFA EURO 2020 would set up a decider against either Belgium or France. First, though, the Azzurri and England both have three 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September.

[xtruss]

Italy 🇮🇹 Wins Euro 2020, Beats England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 In Penalty Shootout

— BY STEVE DOUGLAS | July 11, 2021

LONDONr (AP) — Italian soccer’s redemption story is complete. England’s painful half-century wait for a major title goes on.

And it just had to be because of a penalty shootout.

Italy won the European Championship for the second time by beating England 3-2 on penalties on Sunday. The match finished 1-1 after extra time at Wembley Stadium, which was filled mostly with English fans hoping to celebrate the team’s first international trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

“It’s coming to Rome. It’s coming to Rome,” Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci shouted into a TV camera amid the celebrations, mocking the famous lyric “it’s coming home” from the England team’s anthem.

For England, it was utter dejection again — they know the feeling so well when it comes to penalties — after Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy’s imposing goalkeeper, dived to his left and saved the decisive spot kick by 19-year-old Londoner Bukayo Saka, one of the youngest players in England’s squad.

That was England’s third straight failure from the penalty spot in the shootout, with Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho — players brought on late in extra time seemingly as specialist penalty-takers — also missing.

As Saka and Sancho cried, Donnarumma was mobbed by his teammates as they sprinted toward him from the halfway line at the end of the second penalty shootout in a European Championship final.

Then Italy’s jubilant players headed to the other end of the field and ran as one, diving to the ground in front of the Italian fans who have witnessed a rebirth of their national team.

It was less than four years ago that Italy plunged to the lowest moment of its soccer history by failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in six decades. Now, they are the best team in Europe and on a national-record 34-match unbeaten run under Roberto Mancini, their suave coach who has won an international trophy in his first attempt to add to the country’s other European title — in 1968 — and its four World Cups.

Mancini joined his players on the podium as Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini lifted the Henri Delaunay trophy to the backdrop of fireworks and tickertape.

“It was impossible even to just consider this at one stage,” Mancini said, “but the guys were just amazing. I have no words for them.”

For England, it’s the latest heartache in shootouts at major tournaments, after defeats in 1990, 1996, 1998, 2004, 2006 and 2012. They ended that losing streak by beating Colombia on penalties in the round of 16 at the 2018 World Cup, but the pain has quickly returned.

“The boys couldn’t have given more,” England captain Harry Kane said. “Penalties are the worst feeling in the world when you lose. It’s been a fantastic tournament — we should be proud, hold our heads up high. It’s going to hurt now, it’s going to hurt for a while.”

England’s first major final in 55 years had all started so well, too, with Luke Shaw scoring the fastest goal in a European Championship final by meeting a cross from opposite wing back Kieran Trippier with a half-volley that went in off the post in the second minute.

It was Shaw’s first goal for England and it prompted a fist-pump between David Beckham and Tom Cruise in the VIP box amid an explosion of joy around Wembley, which had at least 67,000 fans inside. Maybe more, given dozens of ticketless England fans managed to barge their way past stewards and police and into the stadium in unsettling scenes before kickoff.

That was the only time Italy’s famously robust defense was really opened up in the entire 120 minutes.

Indeed, after Shaw’s goal, England barely saw the ball for the rest of the game.

Italy’s midfielders dominated possession, as widely predicted before the match, and England simply resorted to dropping deep and getting nine or even all 10 outfield players behind the ball. It was reminiscent of the 2018 World Cup semifinals, when England also scored early against Croatia then spent most of the game chasing its opponent’s midfield before losing in extra time.

Italy’s equalizer was merited and Bonucci was the unlikely scorer. He put the ball in from close range after a right-wing corner was flicked on to Marco Verratti, whose stooping header was tipped onto the post by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

England managed to hold on for extra time — the way three of the last six European finals went — and actually had the better of the final stages.

Just not the shootout, again.

After the misses of Rashford — he stuttered up to the ball and then hit the post — and Sancho, whose shot was saved by Donnarumma again down to his left, Jorginho had the chance to win it for Italy.

Incredibly, the midfielder who converted the decisive penalty in a shootout win over Spain in the semifinals also failed to score as Pickford tipped the effort off the post.

It was Donnarumma who then made the crucial saves and within minutes he had also been named player of the tournament, the first goalkeeper to be so honored.

So instead of coming home, the trophy is headed to Rome.

“We’d heard it day in, day out from Wednesday night — we heard it would be coming home to London,” Bonucci said. “I’m sorry for them, but the cup will be taking a nice flight, making its way to Rome so Italians all over the world can savor this.”

[uniteds]

you know, football is so flawed and tackling racism is beyond complicated and ID tracing causes more problems than it solves, BUT it is kinda remarkable to see the flood of support from all over football for rashford, sancho, and saka and how all these players are given the platform to take a stand to the government and this doesn’t happen without the support of everyone involved in their national team and clubs. I think back to some of the stuff that ashley cole and rio faced and how they were constantly silenced, and actually had to deal with outright racists in their own team, and you just get a sense that things are different now. even if we’re a long way off and I’m cautious of praising anything that the FA or england do, but for the first time, I don’t feel a sense of hopelessness.

[lindsaywesker]

Good morning! I hope you slept well and feel rested? Currently sitting at my desk, in my study, attired only in my blue towelling robe, enjoying my first cuppa of the day.

At about 9.00 am yesterday I went for my walk. Absolutely beautiful weather! Dogs and owners, mums and toddlers, runners and joggers, plus the daily walkers, all enjoying some July sunshine. Nevertheless, at about 4.00 pm, the heavens opened; hopefully you didn’t get caught in it? As the say about the UK weather, if you wait a few minutes, a new season will come along! God knows what season we’re in! I have genuinely lost track.

Yesterday, my social media news feeds were full of screenshots of the vile racist abuse aimed at Rashford, Sancho and Saka. In addition to that, actual film footage of English fans randomly punching and kicking Italian fans and anybody they didn’t like the look of! This is the world we live in. It wasn’t designed by me or people like me, it’s a society created by people who don’t care if the working classes beat the shit out of each other! The social media companies need to shut these evil people down and there’s now even a petition to find these trolls and ban them from ever attending another England game. They do not represent me or any decent person. Marcus, Jadon and Bukayo do more for young people in our society than this government ever will and, remember, they stepped forward to take a penalty when more experienced players refused to. That takes courage! Most of us would have crumbled before even kicking the ball!

On a much lighter note, let’s talk about the new Netflix series ‘Sex Life’. Yes, it's a story about a sex life but it’s also a story about love, passion and the emotional security that marriage provides. A million women will be watching that show and reminiscing about a hot guy they used to know. It’s as natural as the day is long. And, no, I won’t be talking about that scene! You can have your own private discussions!

You should never judge a book by looking at its cover. My daughter bought me this brilliant T-shirt which I often wear; it’s a collage of the heroes of hip hop. Some people must be looking at the old, bald white man and thinking, “Why has he got all these black men on his chest?” They don’t know who I am. If they talk to me, we can get into a conversation about Dizzy Heights and Newtrament.

Thanks for reading all the way to the bottom of my status. Pucker up! Special snogs for you. Have a tremendous and tumultuous Tuesday! I love you all.

And, if you’ve read any of my books and enjoyed them, please go back to Amazon and leave a little review (20 words will do!)

[doux-amer]

Thank you, Italy, for saving hot girl summer and preventing the apocalypse! All kidding aside (sorry to all my English friends), Italy deserved to win because they were the strongest team in the Euros this year even if they still need some work to do. Much respect to England, though, who fought hard and didn't make it easy for Italy. As much as I griped about England's tactics as I thought there was so much talent there that could be utilized in more interesting ways instead of playing it safe, their defensive work was good in the first half whereas you could tell Italy was struggling with Spinazzola's absence. Messy defense that was way too open, sloppy giveaway passes that made me increasingly irritable, etc. But I knew Mancini would be able to reset things at halftime and sure enough, Italy were the better side in the second half and extra time. 

Italy doesn't have a deep bench of all-star names, but there's something special about Mancini's Italy. The Azzurri feel like a united team with great chemistry on and off the pitch, and Mancini has done something new with them. This isn't the defense-heavy and cynical (and some, including me, may say dirty, cheating, diving) Italy who have talent but have no interest in taking risks up front; this is a forward-thinking and positive one despite this frustrating final.

I think you can say the same thing for Southgate's England. Lots of great individual players, particularly young ones with potential, but unlike the England we're used to, they not only have that, but they also have teamwork locked down (also, they’re not messy, for the most part, unlike previous English squads; these are decent guys who are really doing things to be good role models). I'd like to see Southgate change his strategic moves especially as some have been questionable, but we'll see how it goes. I only hope that England doesn't give Rashford, Sancho, and Saka a hard time; I'm not sure it was wise to go with them instead of experienced players and other than hoping that they don't get abuse hurled at them, I hope this doesn't haunt them (particularly poor Saka who was inconsolable). But if I’m going to be petty, I’m only sad for the English players I like and do not at all feel terrible for the worst fans ever lmao. 

Anyway, lots to look forward to! Now I'm gonna have to deal with post-international tournament blues. :')))

[blodeuweddschild]

Racism (obviously) but also because they missed the penalties which were used to decide who won the match (it was tied up until this point). Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka and Jadon Sancho missed their penalties so English football fans (being the pieces of shit they are) decided to take this out on the 3 of them and thought the best way to do this was to be a bunch of racist pricks. To make it worse, Saka was the last to take his penalty but is 19 years old and not only is this his first euros but he’s hardly been in the England national team for a year now (Gareth Southgate, the England teams manager, is going to hell for putting that poor kid out there for the final penalty) but is already getting extreme amounts of abuse

All in all, everyone in the team did the best they could and they all played an amazing match even if England didn’t win. None of them deserve abuse, especially racial abuse, but England football fans have always been like this and will take any excuse to abuse players they don’t like and generally be bigoted

A local resident puts love hearts and slogans on the plastic that covers offensive graffiti on the vandalised mural of Manchester United striker and England player Marcus Rashford on the wall of a cafe on Copson Street, Withington on July 12, 2021 in Manchester, England. Rashford and other Black players on England’s national football team have been the target of racist abuse, largely on social media, after the team’s loss to Italy in the UEFA European Football Championship last night.