FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: England's journey comes to an end
A 2-1 defeat to France ended this year's hopes of football coming home
Last updated 11th Dec 2022
After the success of England's Lionesses in the Summer, and the men's team getting all the way to the final at the UEFA European Football Championships in 2021, football fever was rife for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Unlike most tournaments, the 2022 World Cup runs in the Winter, between November and December, with breaks in domestic leagues to accommodate for football's biggest world tournament, which will see some of the best footballers in the game.
Who did England play in the Quarter Final of the World Cup?
After beating Senegal 3-0, England had a tough fixture against current holders France in the Quarter Final. With attacking players like Olivier Giroud, Antoine Griezmann, and Kylian Mbappé, the game was always set to be England's toughest test of the tournament so far.
A strong drive from 25 yards out by Aurelien Tchouaméni went into the back of the net, just edging past Jordan Pickford. With 17 minutes gone there was still time for England. Heading into half time 1-0 down, England needed decisions to start going their way (after a failed attempt at a penalty in the first half). On 54 minutes that chance came when Tchouaméni fouled Bukayo Saka in the penalty area.
After the referee looked at VAR, the penalty was awarded and captain Harry Kane stepped up to take the penalty against his Tottenham team-mate Hugo Lloris. Nine minutes after the break and the ball was in the back of the net, England were back in it and our hopes were alive again.
Despite a strong performance from England, France went 2-1 up with 12 minutes left of normal time as Olivier Giroud headed Antoine Griezmann's cross past Pickford. With time running out, England got the chance they desperately needed when Theo Hernandez fouled Mason Mount in the box.
Kane stepped up to take another pen, this time opting to strike a lot quicker and with a shorter run up than his previous success. Uncharacteristically, the striker and captain put the ball over the bar and missed the target. With time running out but eight minutes of extra time added, the last ditch effort came from a free kick just outside the box, but Marcus Rashford just put it over the top right of goal.
The whistle went and England were out, a great effort but another Quarter Final defeat for the history books.
What did manager Gareth Southgate say after England's defeat?
"I think the performance did deserve better. In the end, goals are decisive. I've just said to the players in there, I don't think they could have given any more, I think they've played really well against a top team, there were fine margins and things at both ends that have decided the game. I'm proud of the way they've been through the tournament."
On Kane's penalty miss, Southgate said: "For me, we win and lose as a team and we've let a couple of goals in and we've missed a few chances. He's been incredible for us and so reliable in those sort of situations. We wouldn't be here if not for the goals he's scored for us."
He continued: "At key moments, you're playing in a high-level game where there are going to be chances created, in most of the big moments we were in the right place. We had more shots on goal, the goalkeeper has made a couple of really good saves for us but it's a game of fine margins."
Where was England vs France in the Quarter Final of the World Cup played?
The game was played at the Al Bayt Stadium in Qatar.
England's 2022 World Cup fixtures
Quarter Final
Saturday 10th December (7pm) - England Vs France
Round of 16
Sunday 4th December (7pm) - England Vs Senegal
Group Stages:
Monday 21st November (1pm) - England Vs Iran
Friday 25th November (7pm) - England Vs USA
Tuesday 29th November (7pm) Wales Vs England
England scores at the World Cup
England Vs Iran: 6-2
(35) Jude Bellingham (England)
(43, 62) Bukayo Saka (England)
(45+1) Raheem Sterling (England)
(65) Mehdi Taremi (Iran)
(71) Marcus Rashford (England)
(90) Jack Grealish (England)
(90+12) Mehdi Taremi (Iran)
England Vs USA: 0-0
Wales Vs England: 0-3
(50) Marcus Rashford (England)
(51) Phil Foden (England)
(69) Marcus Rashford (England)
England Vs Senegal: 3-0
(38) Jordan Henderson (England)
(45+3) Harry Kane (England)
(57) Bukayo Saka (England)
England Vs France: 1-2
(17) Aurelien Tchouaméni (France)
(54) Harry Kane (England)
(78) Olivier Giroud (France)
Who did England play in the Round of 16?
After topping Group B, England played Group A runners-up Senegal in the Round of 16 game. The game kicked-off at 7pm on Sunday 4th December.
Which TV channels showed England's World Cup fixtures?
Coverage of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be broadcast in the UK on both BBC and ITV, with both broadcasters enlisting the help of former pros and commentators for their coverage.
The BBC had stars such as Gary Lineker, Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, Alan Shearer, Rio Ferdinand, Jermaine Jenas, Alex Scott, Vincent Kompany, Didier Drogba, and Gilberto Silva.
ITV signed up a number of faces faces, including Mark Pougatch, Laura Woods, Seema Jaswal, Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, and Joe Cole.
Quarter Final:
Saturday 10th December (7pm) - England Vs France (BBC)
Round of 16:
Sunday 4th December (7pm) - England Vs Senegal (ITV)
Group Stages:
Monday 21st November (1pm) - England Vs Iran (BBC One)
Friday 25th November (7pm) - England Vs USA (ITV)
Tuesday 29th November (7pm) Wales Vs England (BBC One)
Where is the FIFA World Cup being held in 2022?
The 2022 World Cup is being held in Qatar in the Middle East.
The tournament will be played at eight purpose built stadiums including, Stadium 974, Al Thumama Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium, Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Bayt Stadium, Lusail Stadium, Al Janoub Stadium, and Education City Stadium.
When did the World Cup start?
In a completely different schedule to usual, the 2022 FIFA World Cup kicked off on Sunday 20th November, running until Sunday 18th December.
Why is the World Cup in Winter?
This year's World Cup is taking place between November and December due to the location of the host country. Playing in the Winter means the players will be able to avoid the intense Summer heat of Qatar, which can rise above 45°C at times.
Despite temperatures in Winter being lower, the Middle East constantly has humid weather with temps sometimes reaching up to 30°C, something the European teams could struggle with.
Which teams were in England's group at the World Cup in Qatar?
England were in Group B alongside Iran, Wales and USA.
Who was in England's World Cup squad?
The official 26-man England squad was announced by manager Gareth Southgate on 10th November 2022.
Check out the squad below:
Goalkeepers
Jordan Pickford
Nick Pope
Aaron Ramsdale
Defenders
Trent Alexander Arnold
Conor Coady
Eric Dier
Harry Maguire
Luke Shaw
John Stones
Kieran Trippier
Kyle Walker
Ben White
Midfielders
Jude Bellingham
Conor Gallagher
Jordan Henderson
Mason Mount
Kalvin Phillips
Declan Rice
Forwards
Phil Foden
Jack Grealish
Harry Kane
James Maddison
Marcus Rashford
Bukayo Saka
Raheen Sterling
Callum Wilson
Following the group stages, The FA confirmed defender Ben White had left the World Cup base and returned to England.
The statement read: 'Ben White has left England’s training base in Al Wakrah and returned home for personal reasons. The Arsenal defender is not expected to return to the squad for the remainder of the tournament.
'We ask that the player’s privacy is respected at this moment in time.'
Who was the England captain at the World Cup?
Forward Harry Kane will once again be the England captain for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Kane took over as skipper from midfielder Jordan Henderson in 2018, ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Who is the England football manager?
Former Aston Villa, Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace player Gareth Southgate OBE is the current England manager. Southgate, who made 57 appearances for England in his playing days, was given the job in September 2016, taking over from Sam Allardyce.
Southgate led the team to fourth place at the 2018 World Cup and third place at the UEFA Nations League in 2019.
As fans will know, Southgate helped England reach the Euros 2020 final in 2021, with the team losing out on penalties to Italy.
Can Gareth take us all the way this time?
Which teams took part in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022?
After all of the qualifying rounds took place, 32 teams qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 2022. The 32 teams have been split into eight groups of four.
Group A:
Qatar
Ecuador
Senegal
Netherlands
Group B:
England
Iran
Wales
USA
Group C:
Argentina
Saudi Arabia
Mexico
Portugal
Group D:
France
Denmark
Tunisia
Australia
Group E:
Spain
Germany
Japan
Costa Rica
Group F:
Belgium
Canada
Morocco
Croatia
Group G:
Brazil
Serbia
Switzerland
Cameroon
Group H:
Portugal
Ghana
Uruguay
Korea Republic
What were England's kits for the World Cup?
England unveiled their home and away kits for the FIFA World Cup 2022 back in September.
Supplied by sportswear brand Nike, the England home kit is a classic white shirt influenced by the 'bold, energetic spirit' of England's squad.
The away kit is bright red with blue outlines, with a 90s nostalgic feel.
Nike said of the kits: 'Never Done Working As One. The 2022 England National Team Collection debuts today, reflecting the squad’s commitment to stand up for what’s right. 🦁🦁🦁'. (sic)
England have also released three retro kits for the World Cup, including a 1990 'INTER' Home Shirt , 1990 'INTER' Third Shirt, and a 1990 'INTER' Away Shirt.
Now check out all of the football teams your fave celebs support:
Ant and Dec - Newcastle United
TV presenters Ant and Dec make it no secret that they are beloved Newcastle United fans! The Geordie duo are often spotted at games in the Toon, sitting alongside the club's directors Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi.
Despite missing some games due to their work commitments, the boys are never too far away from their phones watching their beloved team play.
Ed Sheeran - Ipswich Town
Ed Sheeran and his wife Cherry Seaborn are massive Ipswich Town supporters, with the pair attending a number of games in the past.
Will Ferrell - Chelsea
American actor Will Ferrell is a huge Chelsea fan and is often in attendance of games at Stamford Bridge.
Jade Thirlwall - South Shields and Newcastle United
As well as supporting Newcastle United, Little Mix singer Jade Thirlwall is often spotted at her local town's football team - South Shields FC.
In August 2020, Jade became the Honorary President of South Shields Football Club, with the club saying: "We are proud to announce that Jade Thirlwall has accepted the role of Honorary President at South Shields Football Club."
Anne Hathaway - Arsenal
Actress Anne Hathaway let slip during an interview in 2024 that she is a huge fan of London club Arsenal. Anne couldn't hide her excitement mid-interview when Leandro Trossard scored a late winner for the Gunners. After the footage went rival, Trossard sent a video message to Anne, leaving her 'shaking'.
AJ Tracey - Tottenham
'West Ten' rapper AJ Tracey is a massive Spurs fan! Not only did he perform at the club's 2019 Nike kit launch, he's also been spotted in the crown and in the dressing rooms, getting photos with plays such as Harry Kane, Dele Alli and Son Heung-min.
Drake - Chelsea
Drake is a massive Chelsea fan and even had a kick about with the team before a Champions League match back in 2012.
The rapper was later photographed in the dressing room with Chelsea legends such as John Terry, Ashley Cole and Didier Drogba.
Aitch - Manchester United
Not only is Aitch good mates with former Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard, the rapper also launched the club's 2019 home kit!
Perrie Edwards - Liverpool
Despite also having a soft-spot for her hometown team Newcastle United, Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards showed massive support for Liverpool when her fiancé Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain played for them.
When Liverpool won the Champions League back in 2019, Perrie was pictured celebrating on the pitch with her man, and of course THAT trophy!
Dave - Manchester United
Dave often tweets his love (and frustration) about his beloved team Manchester United, with the 'Location' hit maker previously helping the club secure the signing of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
In September 2020, Dave's dreams come true when he played at Old Trafford as part of this year's Soccer Aid game!
Jess Glynne - Arsenal
Jess Glynne has a massive passion for football, and in particular her beloved Arsenal! Back in 2015 the club gave Jess a VIP tour around the Emirates after discovering she was such a big fan!
Jess also performed at Wembley Stadium ahead of Arsenal's FA Community Shield game against Chelsea back in August 2015. She's now dating former Arsenal Ladies player Alex Scott.
Prince William and Prince George - Aston Villa
Prince William and his eldest son Prince George are massive fans of Aston Villa! The dad-and-son duo often attend games together, with Prince William even sharing a message on social media when his team qualified for the Champions League!
Stormzy - Manchester United
Another huge star that supports the Red Devils is Stormzy! As well as attending the club's end of season party, the 'Vossi Bop' singer has been down at the training ground a number of times!
KSI - Arsenal
YouTuber KSI is a massive Arsenal fan, with the rapper featuring a lot on AFTV. KSI also gets some of the players involved on his own YouTube channel, playing FIFA against the likes of Mesut Özil.
In 2022, KSI's popular drink PRIME partnered with Arsenal.
Sylvester Stallone - Everton
Legendary actor Sylvester Stallone is a fan of Merseyside club Liverpool. Sylvester has a close friendship with club's former director Robert Earl, and has been spotted a games before! He even once expressed his regret in not buying the club when he had the chance.
Nathan Dawe - Aston Villa
DJ Nathan Dawe is a lifelong Aston Villa fan, so it's no surprise he was over the moon when the club managed to finish in the Top 4 during the 23/24 season.
Noel Gallagher - Manchester City
Musician Noel Gallagher is a Manchester City fan through and through. Despite opting not to join in with the Poznan as Man City beat Fulham during the 23/24 season, Noel is often seen in the crown at games, as well as joining the players on their celebratory tours.
Noel's brother and fellow Oasis star Liam is also a big City fan!
Big Zuu - Liverpool
Rapper Big Zuu is a huge fan of Liverpool! He was invited to a number of games during the 2019 season, as well as filming content with former players such as Jordan Henderson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
Young T & Bugsey - Arsenal and Manchester United
They are the best of friends but when it comes to football Young T & Bugsey have a major rivalry! Whilst Young T is a huge Arsenal fan, Bugsey's loyalties are with Manchester United.
Sam Fender - Newcastle United
Born in North Shields, it's no surprise 'Seventeen Going Under' singer Sam Fender is true Geordie! Sam has adored Newcastle United since he was a little boy and in 2023 his dreams came true when he played a number of sold-out shows at his beloved St James' Park.