Multi-time Grammy-winning singer Ed Sheeran performed a secret gig for the England squad at their Kansas City base during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. Sheeran also backed the Three Lions to reach the final, predicting their opponents would be two-time champions France, led by Kylian Mbappe.
Historic Win Over Mexico
England made FIFA World Cup history with a 3-2 win over Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium, becoming the first team ever to beat Mexico in Mexico City in a World Cup match. The victory secured a quarterfinal clash against Norway. Under the leadership of captain Harry Kane, the recently two-time Euro runners-up look formidable as title contenders. Kane leads from the front with six goals so far, while young star Jude Bellingham has netted four goals.
Sheeran's Bond with the Team
The England team has developed a strong bond with Ed Sheeran over the years, thanks to their captain. "In 2021, Harry got me down for the camp, and then I met everyone, and I have just been to every one since," Sheeran said on the latest episode of Extra Time, as quoted by Sky Sports. "It has been great, it has been a nice little tradition. Since the first time I played for the lads in 2021, we have bonded, so it's never a tough crowd," he added.
Road to the Quarterfinal
Before the sensational round of 16 performance against Mexico, Thomas Tuchel's side scored a 2-1 win over DR Congo in the round of 32, but not without conceding an early goal by Brian Cipenka in the seventh minute. England cannot afford mistakes against a red-hot Norway, with superstar Erling Haaland having netted seven goals so far in their largely flawless run.
Final Prediction
Sheeran still backs England to reach the final. "I think it will be an England-France final," he said. "When you get to the final, anyone can win, and I think it will be us." The clash between Norway and England promises to be the most anticipated of the quarterfinals. Erling Haaland, in contention for the Golden Boot with seven goals, meets England's talismanic skipper Harry Kane, who has scored six goals. Fans will either see the iconic 'Viking Row' celebration or another Kane masterclass under pressure, with young superstar Jude Bellingham also backing his skipper, having scored four goals so far. The match is scheduled for July 12 at 2:30 AM IST.
