In the semi-final of the USA-Canadian Cup, England, after taking an early lead through Gordon, conceded two goals and were eliminated. In the 21st century, England has experienced six such tragedies in major tournament knockout stages, scoring first only to be eliminated. On four of these occasions, the Three Lions even scored within the first five minutes, achieving a dream start!
In the 2002 World Cup quarter-final, England lost 1-2 to Brazil. Owen opened the scoring in the 23rd minute , Rivaldo equalized in first-half stoppage time, and Ronaldinho scored a free-kick lob in the 50th minute to put Brazil ahead.
In the quarter-finals of Euro 2004, England lost to Portugal on penalties. Owen scored in the 3rd minute to give England a dream start, but Postiga did not equalize until the 83rd minute. Both sides scored a goal in extra time, and England were eliminated by Portugal 5-6 on penalties.
In the Round of 16 of Euro 2016, England lost 1-2 to Iceland. Rooney scored a penalty in the 4th minute , but Iceland equalized 2 minutes later and took the lead in the 18th minute, eventually defeating England 2-1 in a major upset.
In the 2018 World Cup semi-final, England lost 1-2 to Croatia. Trippier scored a direct free kick in the 5th minute , Perisic equalized in the 68th minute, and Mandzukic scored the winning goal in the 109th minute.
In the 2021 European Championship final, England played at home . Luke Shaw scored in the 2nd minute to give England a perfect start , but Chiellini equalized in the 67th minute. In the penalty shootout, England led 2-1 but conceded three penalties, ultimately losing 2-3 to Italy and failing to win the European Championship on home soil.
In the 2022 World Cup semi-final, England lost 1-2 to Argentina. Gordon scored in the 55th minute , Enzo equalized with a long-range shot in the 85th minute, and Lautaro scored the winning goal with a header in the 92nd minute!
