‘England united’ after World Cup run, say press

London: “An England United, first in hope, now in defeat”. British media reflected Thursday on England’s heartbreaking defeat to Croatia, praising manager Gareth Southgate and his young team despite their exit. England won plaudits not just for their deeds on the pitch — reaching the semis for the first time since 1990 — but for bringing together a nation bitterly divided over Brexit. “Our divided nation has been united thanks to a polite Englishman and a bunch of modern ordinary lads,” said the Sun. “Forget Manchester United, West Ham United, Newcastle United. For now we’re an England United, first in hope, now in defeat.” The Daily Mirror also credits Southgate and his men for fostering a spirit of unity: “They go into Saturday’s third-place play-off (against Belgium) with their heads held high, knowing they have done themselves proud and put a smile back on a conflicted country’s face.” 

Croatia cabinet meets in soccer team jerseys

ZAGREB: Croatia’s cabinet ministers held a session dressed in the red and white checkered jerseys of the national soccer team on Thursday to celebrate the country’s victory in a World Cup semifinal. “What happened yesterday in Moscow is the best possible promotion for the country on a global level. This is success for a small country with huge heart,” Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic said at the beginning of the cabinet session.Plenkovic attended Wednesday’s game. — Agencies