A galaxy of stars, including football icon Sir David Beckham and Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger, descended upon Atlanta on Wednesday for England's high-stakes World Cup semi-final clash against defending champions Argentina. The highly anticipated encounter, held at the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium, drew thousands of passionate Three Lions supporters to the US city, all hoping to see England progress to the final.
Sir David Beckham, a legendary figure for both England and Manchester United, was once again present to cheer on the national team. He was accompanied by his wife, Lady Victoria, and their children, Romeo, Harper, Cruz, and Cruz's partner, Jackie Apostel. Among other notable attendees were One Direction's Louis Tomlinson with his girlfriend Zara McDermott, and American rapper Tauheed Epps, known professionally as 2 Chainz. The stands also saw the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, seated alongside English Football Association President Debbie Hewitt.
The celebrity presence extended beyond the stadium walls, with several stars showing their support from home. Actress Millie Bobby Brown, known for her role in 'Stranger Things', shared pre-game photos, including a selfie in an England top from inside the venue. 'Peaky Blinders' actor Joe Cole also posted updates from the stadium on his Instagram Stories. Back in the UK, EastEnders star Ross Kemp, a vocal supporter throughout the tournament, posted a video rallying behind England. Comedian Alan Carr shared a photo from a pub, wearing an England T-shirt and with his face painted with the St George’s Cross, while Olly Murs celebrated his anniversary by watching the game and singing the national anthem.
Fans, both in Atlanta and across the UK, expressed a mixture of cautious optimism and significant apprehension ahead of the match, particularly regarding the formidable presence of Argentine superstar Lionel Messi. Pubs across Britain anticipated a surge in sales, with an estimated six million extra pints expected to be sold on Wednesday as supporters gathered to watch the crucial fixture. The winner of this semi-final will advance to face Spain in the World Cup final, scheduled for 19 July at 8pm BST.