England have silenced the noise surrounding Donald Trump’s recent comments on football by beating Croatia 4‑2 on 2026‑06‑17, a result that has reignited optimism among fans.

Why Trump’s remarks mattered now

Trump’s tweet calling football “a waste of talent” landed just weeks before England’s group‑stage finale. The former president’s words echoed through social media, prompting pundits to wonder if the Three Lions could stay focused. Instead, the squad turned the spotlight onto themselves, delivering a performance that reminded the world why England belong among the sport’s elite. The win not only boosted morale but also proved that political noise can’t derail a team on a winning streak.

How the victory fits England’s recent form

England entered the Croatia match on a mixed run – two wins followed by two losses (WWLL) – but the win marked the start of a fresh two‑game winning run. Scoring four goals highlighted a renewed attacking fluency, while the defence, despite conceding twice, showed resilience after a shaky start. The result lifted the team to the top of their group, setting up a high‑stakes showdown with Spain at home on 2026‑09‑26.

What injuries are still a concern?

Jordan Henderson remains sidelined, a loss that still haunts the midfield. His absence forces Gareth Southgate to reshuffle the engine room, giving younger players a chance to prove their worth. The coach has leaned on Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips to fill the void, and both have responded with energy and composure. While Henderson’s recovery timeline stays uncertain, the squad’s depth suggests they can cope without their veteran captain for now.

What lies ahead for the Three Lions?

Next up is a home clash with Spain, scheduled for 2026‑09‑26. The fixture promises a tactical battle between Southgate’s fluid 4‑3‑3 and Luis de Fernando’s possession‑heavy side. England will need to maintain their attacking sharpness while tightening the back line that let Croatia score twice. If they can keep the momentum from the 4‑2 win, a spot in the knockout phase looks within reach.

And the story doesn’t end on the pitch. Trump’s criticism sparked a wave of fan‑driven campaigns, with supporters flooding social media with #ThreeLionsRise. The movement has turned a political jab into a rallying cry, showing how sport can unite people against external noise. England’s resurgence proves that belief, when backed by results, can outshine any headline.

The next few weeks will test whether the Three Lions can translate this surge into a deep World Cup run. With a key midfielder out, a fresh opponent looming, and the world watching, England’s journey is far from over.