Five ways to cope with England's World Cup semi-final defeat

England's World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak on Tuesday as Argentina mounted a dramatic comeback to win 2-1 in the semi-finals in Atlanta. Harry Kane had given England the lead early in the second half, but the team could not hold on, leaving fans devastated.

For many supporters, the defeat is more than just a game. Dr Martha Newson, a behavioural scientist at the University of Greenwich, explains that football losses often sting more than those in other sports. "Few people are going to cry and get upset about whoever loses Wimbledon," she said. "Football is different… we talk about the national team like it's us out there."

Supporter Oli Portlock, 27, from Preston, described an England loss as feeling like a "national funeral… a big grey cloud over the nation when England's been knocked out." He recalled the "absolute heartbreak" of the Euro 2020 final defeat to Italy at Wembley, which "certainly ruined the next week in work for me."

Acknowledge the pain

Dr David Crepaz-Keay from the Mental Health Foundation says recognising the feeling of pain is an important step. However, he advises not to worry too much, as the emotional dip "typically fades within a couple of hours." If you feel like you are wallowing in misery, ride it out and remind yourself it is part of the process.

Focus on the wins

Oli suggests reflecting on the great memories from the tournament, such as Harry Kane bringing England back from the brink against DR Congo, or Jude Bellingham scoring twice in 98 seconds against Mexico to secure a quarter-final spot. He also recalls staying up for a 02:00 BST kick-off after severe storms, or crowding into packed pubs during a record-breaking heatwave for earlier games.

Listening to music that reminds you of the successes—like Wonderwall for this year or Sweet Caroline for Euro 2020—can help lift spirits. England fan Jayne Howells, 54, agrees and cautions against assigning blame in anger. "A lot of these players… they're going to be gutted as well. It's not about knocking them down, but saying they actually did really well. That's how you make a stronger team."

Crepaz-Keay advises fans to "see the funny side where you can" and remember "the things that went well."

Talk it out

The first few hours after the loss will be the worst, Crepaz-Keay says. However, "taking your disappointment out on someone else is not the way to go." Instead, both he and Newson recommend sharing your disappointment as one of the best ways to get over the hurt. "Talk about it, rant about it," Crepaz-Keay advises, and get through it quickly with the right people.

Oli agrees, saying "talking with mates down the pub" helps you remember you're "on the same page" with the sting. "It does evoke disappointment," he admits, but it helps to "get it out of your system."

Sing, walk the dog, run

If you find yourself reaching for crisps or cookies, it is not just a lack of willpower. Newson says fans often consume more calories after a loss, likely due to an unconscious "evolutionary" desire to protect oneself after losing. She emphasises trusting your instincts—being with others, resting, and opening up tend to be the best options.

Crepaz-Keay adds, "Getting outside and being active will help," even if that means walking and singing on your way home from a match to expend some energy.