
England have crashed out of the World Cup at the semi final stage after losing 2-1 to Croatia in extra time in Moscow.

But the Three Lions were lauded for their efforts at the tournament, with Prince William leading the cheers, saying he 'couldn't be more proud' of the players and added they had 'made history'.

The result left millions of fans in pubs, venues and homes across the country in tears as they were dealt a devastating blow after coming so close to glory.

England took an early lead through right back Kieran Trippier's free kick and had chances to double their advantage throughout the first half.

But they were pegged back midway through the second half when Ivan Perisic flicked home a cross with an outstretched boot to make it 1-1.

Croatia had the better of the latter stages and scored again in extra time when striker Mario Mandzukic lashed the ball into the net following some hesitation in England's defence.

England's players fell to their knees in tears at the final whistle while millions of people watching at home were also left weeping after coming so close to getting to the final.

Manager Gareth Southgate immediately walked onto the pitch and comforted his players after the heart-breaking defeat, while the players wives and girlfriends were also quick to show them affection.

The country came to a stand-still during the evening and fans packed themselves into bars and pubs in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and other major cities and towns.

Gareth Southgate is pictured comforting his England players in Moscow after the Three Lions were beaten 2-1 by Croatia in the World Cup semi final

Southgate, pictured here with Danny Rose, went around each of his players to reassure them after the end of the game

Captain Harry Kane was hugged by defender Phil Jones, pictured, and looked dejected at the final whistle after extra time

The players sank to their knees in Moscow when the whistle blew having led the match early on when Kieran Trippier scored a free kick

Southgate gathered the team together for a pep talk at the end of the game as sad faces looked on all around him

Southgate was seen going around all of his players to check on them, including Jesse Lingard, pictured, who sank to the floor after the match

Southgate, left, managed to crack a smile at the end of the game for wife Alison, centre, and son Flynn, right, as he was comforted by them

The England manager embraced his wife of more than 20 years after the match with England now facing a third-place play-off against Belgium on Saturday

The 47-year-old also saved a cuddle for his son Flynn, left, and daughter Mia, right,

Southgate also made sure to go over to the England fans and show his appreciation to them as the stadium emptied

Quarter final hero Harry Maguire sank to his knees at the final whistle, left, while Harry Kane looked dejected as he hugged Tottenham Hotspur teammate Eric Dier

Marcus Rashford, left, had a thousand-yard stare as he sat in the stands with family after the final whistle

An emotional Jesse Lingard, centre, is pictured talking to mother Kirsty, left, after going into the stands after the game

Harry Kane wrote on Instagram after the game the defeat 'hurt a lot' but thanked all the fans for their support

Marcus Rashford posted a picture of himself sitting on the pitch after the match with no words

Harry Maguire posted a picture of him being comforted by Southgate as he thanked fans for their 'incredible support'

Speaking after the match, manager Gareth Southgate praised his players but admitted they struggled after half time.

He said: 'We were hanging on a little bit rather than trying to control the game. We probably needed that second goal early in the game.'

'We've come an incredible long way in a short space of time.

'[Getting to the semi-final] was 'probably beyond where we thought we might be able to go. Tonight in the end we weren't quite there but the team will be stronger for that.

'Tonight it's so difficult for everybody to take – we were so close to what was almost unimaginable at the start. We've left everything out there.

Football fans failed to hide their disappointment as England crashed out against Croatia in the World Cup semi final

Flat Iron Square: England fans struggled to hide their anguish as the game went to extra time only for Croatia to strike a winner

Jordan Pickford was crying in the stands with girlfriend Megan Davison, left, as his family tried to comfort him

Goalscorer Kieran Trippier looked downcast as he was commiserated by his family in the stands of the Moscow stadium

Dele Alli was given a kiss by his girlfriend Ruby Mae following the defeat as the players came to terms with the result

Cult hero Harry Maguire also received some affection from his girlfriend Fern Hawkins in the stands after the match

Nicky Pike, wife of England winger Ashley Young, at the semi-final match this evening - only to see the squad crash out in extra time, losing 1-2 to Croatia

Annabel Peyton, who is engaged to England goalie Jack Butland, looked downcast at the match against Croatia this evening

Jamie Vardy, left, and wife Rebekah shared a tender moment in the stands after the game with Vardy looking downbeat after the defeat

Megan Davison looked on the verge of tears during the game as England went from 1-0 up to 2-1 down against Croatia

Fans at home were just as devastated, with some in a litter-strewn Hyde Park pictured embracing as they faced reality

One England fan in the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow wiped a tear away from her glittery eyes at the end of the game

Fans in Manchester, pictured, all struck a similar pose as they mourned the defeat to Croatia

'I don't think over the six or seven weeks we've been together we could have given more than we have.'

Fans in Bristol held their heads in their hands and wept following England's defeat to Croatia.

Some threw drinks to the ground and stormed out of Ashton Gate Stadium, though some struck a more conciliatory tone.

Josh Quinn, 22, from Bristol, said: 'It was a disappointing performance from England.

'The first half was amazing and the second half was terrible. I feel disappointed but proud.'

Max Pemberton, 24, from Gloucester, had worn a waistcoat to watch the match.

'I'm devastated,' he said.

'They have done so well. I'm devastated for them. It is the first time in our lifetime that we have seen a semi final. I really thought we'd see a final though.'

Mario Mandzukic, pictured, scored the winning goal for Croatia against England in extra-time tonight after a hard fought World Cup semi final

Croatia's Ivan Perisic flicked home a cross with an outstretched boot to level the scores at 1-1 in the second half of the World Cup semi final

Bury-born defender Kieran Trippier put England into an early lead against Croatia in the World Cup semi final, pictured

Bury-born Trippier curled a beautiful strike around the wall and past the Croatian goalkeeper to take the lead for England

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was powerless to stop Perisic's finish bouncing past him into the net

Prime Minister of Russia Dmitry Medvedev, centre, appeared to fall asleep during the game. He is pictured sitting with Chairman of the Football Association Greg Clarke, left, and Fifa president Gianni Infantino, right

England fans watch the FIFA World Cup semi final between England and Croatia in London as the sides draw 1-1

One woman looked pained in Wimbledon as England struggled into extra-time leaving the match on a knife-edge

England fans looked nervous in the second half in Manchester, pictured, after the Croatian equaliser

It was too much for some fans in London who had their heads in their hands as the nervy second half continued

Men reacted at Box Park in Croydon as an equaliser put England in danger of crashing out of the World Cup tournament

The singing stopped at Nottingham Castle as England fans were stunned at the second half equaliser from Croatia in the Luzhniki Stadium

30,000 people watched in Hyde Park and big screens were also up and running across London, Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Leeds, Bristol and Brighton, with pints flying around after the early goal as they celebrated raucously.

The match being on a knife-edge did not seem to bother Russia Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev who appeared to fall asleep in spite of the tension.

The crowd in Hyde Park was nervy as the game went into extra time after England led for much of the game.

‘He single-handedly ruined the entire tournament’: England fans lash out at ‘biased’ Turkish referee and claim he cost the Three Lions a place in the World Cup final By Joseph Curtis for MailOnline England fans have slammed World Cup semi final referee Cuneyt Cakir after the defeat to Croatia tonight and accused him of showing 'bias' towards the winners. Some on social media called the Turkish national's performance 'embarrassing' and called for an investigation by Fifa. Others said he should 'retire' after an 'incompetent' performance while some on social media targeted the Croatia players and accused them of underhand tactics and wasting time. His decision to allow the Croatia equaliser was also criticised with fans claiming it should have been given as a foul against England for a high foot. England fans have hit out at referee Cuneyt Cakir, pictured, and accused him of 'bias' during the Three Lions' match with Croatia The official, pictured with Croatian players, was also accused of allowing them to time waste and giving them controversial decisions, including the equalising goal, which some claimed should have been ruled out for a free kick for a high tackle One Twitter user wrote: 'The referee was a shambles though. Most disgusting performance from a ref that I have seen at this world cup.' Another said: 'That must be the most questionable refereeing I have ever seen. He gave England nothing, the ball was going out of play and we got nothing fouls that weren't even fouls. The referee beat us not Croatia.' The anger against the official was clear across Twitter, with another user calling his performance the 'worst of the tournament'. The user wrote: 'Cakir Cuneyt has just single handily (sic) ruined the World Cup. Worst performance of the whole competition. One user said it was the 'most questionable' refereeing he had ever seen in a match while another accused the official of 'ruining' the World Cup 'Well done FIFA you got what you wanted. A referee who hates England and was totally biased.' Another wrote: 'It's quite clear that #FIFA #WorldCup referees are not interested in fair play #eng best players were nobbled at every opportunity. 'We need to employ some cynical foul and cheating coaches to achieve anything at these tournaments. Well done lads you did your country proud!' Cuneyt has previously refereed England five times and this was the first time the Three Lions had lost under his officiating. Advertisement

Louis Gathercole, 27, said: 'Why do we never do it easy?

'First half, I thought we were going to win the World Cup, second half it brings it all back again.

'But we still believe. For the first time ever I think we're going to do it. I back us - extra time, penalties, we'll still win.'

Jonny Roberts, 25, said: 'Classic case of take your chances in the first half. But keep believing. England are in the semi-finals, we should be proud.'

The free kick sent England fans in the Luzhniki Stadium into raptures, pictured, as they could not believe how well the side started

Fans in Manchester let off flares at Castlefield Bowl to show their joy at England taking a quick lead

Excitement reached fever pitch for England fans in Hyde Park today, pictured, as they waited for the World Cup semi final against Croatia to kick off

Pints went flying in Flat Iron Square in London, pictured, as hundreds rejoiced after the brilliant strike early on

The thousands of supporters in Hyde Park jumped into each other's arms and hugged after the fantastic strike

Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, far right, was at the game and looked nervous despite the early goal

The Castlefield Bowl, in Manchester erupts after the first goal of the match. England have since had more chances to double their lead over Croatia

Attendees at the Henley Royal Regatta take a break to watch the football in their best dresses and tuxedos

Thousands of Russians made their boos heard whenever Croatia's Domagoj Vida touched the ball.

He is under investigation for allegedly making a video in which he shouts a phrase associated with anti-Russian Ukrainian nationalists.

Celebrities were closely following tonight's match, with singer Cheryl revealing she missed the start, tweeting: 'I got in 10 minutes late and already missed a goal!? come on England!!!'

Piers Morgan posted a string of messages on Twitter as the game got under way.

He said: 'England are all over them. We're a better team. Stronger, faster, better organised. We can do this. We will do this.'

After the first goal, Morgan wrote: 'BOOOOOM!!!!!!!! 1-0 ENGLAND. What a start - Trippier you beauty!'

But their joy turned to despair as the game went on and soon a familiar feeling was coming over fans online.

There was still great support show for England though, with Morgan later tweeting: 'OK, I've stopped wailing.

'Gareth Southgate & his young England team did the country proud. We went a lot further than I thought we would & performed with great credit on & off the pitch.

'Losing sucks but the future looks very exciting with this talented group of players. End.'

Songs and chants began straight away as fans continued to sing 'It's Coming Home' and got into the spirit of the game in Manchester

Pure joy: Two fans embrace at Hyde Park, London, after England take the lead against Croatia

Fans also flocked to Castlefield Bowl in Manchester where around 8,000 were watching the match on a big screen

Thousands also packed out Millennium Square in Leeds, pictured, to watch the game at another big screen event

Many in Manchester were quick to get a pint of beer in ahead of the kickoff and were in good spirits, singing songs

Fans packed out Hyde Park and turned it into a sea of red and white as 30,000 people came together to back England

And there were plenty of people in waistcoats in London to show support for manager Gareth Southgate and his trademark look

England flags were also used as blankets as fans made themselves comfortable in Manchester ahead of the game

The crowds in Manchester could have been mistaken for being at the game such were their numbers, with one dressed up in England's famous grey Euro 1996 kit worn during the country's last football semi-final

Fans were in good cheer at Hyde Park as the clock counted down towards the big kick-off in Moscow

The Lightning Seeds, who made iconic song Three Lions with Baddiel & Skinner, played to a raucous crowd at Hyde Park

One fan in Hyde Park was kitted out in an England-themed suit, tie, hat, watch and sunglasses, pictured

But for some in Nottingham the game was not such an exciting option, with one having a sleep on the grass, pictured

This fan was pictured roaring into the crowd in Hyde Park as the sun began to drop, casting him into a shadow behind his England flag

Fans at Nottingham Castle sat on each other's shoulders to get a better view of a big screen, left, while one came as Robin Hood, right, to show his support

There was plenty of facepainting going on at Nottingham Castle as children were desperate to show their support

Gareth Southgate kept faith with the same side which has taken England to the semi-finals of the World Cup, naming an unchanged starting XI against Croatia.

With no injuries to worry about, Southgate submitted an identical team to that which began the last-16 game against Colombia and the quarter-final against Sweden.

That meant Jordan Henderson would have to do without the extra defensive assistance of Eric Dier in the midfield battle against Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic, while Raheem Sterling continued as the foil for six-goal top-scorer Harry Kane.

Lucky ticket-holders for the free screening in Hyde Park began arriving early on Wednesday afternoon to stake out their spots ahead of the big game.

Some, including window cleaner Fred Sweeney, 48, left work early to begin the party.

He is in confident mood, predicting a 2-1 win for the Three Lions.

England fans have turned Moscow's Red Square red, white and blue ahead of the World Cup semi final against Croatia, which is the country's biggest game for 28 years

Fans inside the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, pictured, decked themselves out in facepaint to show their support

Others in the Moscow stadium accessorised with England-inspired hairbands and facepaint including flags on their cheeks

Supporters have covered central Moscow in the flag of St George as they look forward to the Three Lions facing Croatia in Russia tonight

A topless man in Moscow screams among the crowds of singing fans as England supporters' excitement for tonight's game continues to build

Two fans in England shirts in Moscow and one wearing Russian hat sing and chant for their Three Lions heroes ahead of what they hope will be a triumphant night ahead

England's players were smiling as they inspected the pitch in Moscow around an hour before the game, pictured

Raheem Sterling, centre, and Phil Jones were among the players out on the pitch in Moscow as the nerves grew ahead of the game

'We don't need to be nervous, it's coming home,' he said. 'We're going to win it. We're going to win the World Cup.'

James Gordon, 22, from Enfield, north London, was wearing his school prom waistcoat in tribute to Gareth Southgate.

He posed for photos with other fans with his huge St George's Cross ahead of the game in Moscow.

He said: 'It's unbelievable - I never thought we'd be here.

'I was born in 1995 so 2002 World Cup I thought we'd do it, 2004 Euros thought we'd do it, 2006 World Cup thought we'd do it and we failed every single time.

'But I'm behind the boys all the way.

'We're going to win 2-0.'

Many fans on social media said they could not concentrate on work and other tasks today as the excitement was too much. Pictured are fans queuing outside a London bar

There were people wearing England shirts and clothes as far as the eye could see in Leeds tonight, pictured

Fans in Flat Iron Square, London, were pictured jumping and dancing around in anticipation of the big match

Others at Flat Iron Square hugged each other as they drank beer and draped themselves in England flags

This couple looked delighted to be in London at Flat Iron Square to support England wearing big smiles

This fan was keen to show his support by waving a flag around his shoulders at Flat Iron Square in London

Roads around the UK, including the A11 in Suffolk, pictured, were 'more empty than Christmas Day' as fans stayed in or walked to a pub to watch the game

Carpenter Ross Butler, 26, added: '(Raheem) Sterling's going to score for the first time tonight.'

Fans are in buoyant mood in Hyde Park as kick-off approaches with The Lightning Seeds - the band behind Three Lions (Football's Coming Home) - expected on stage soon.

London's World Cup fan zone is being transformed into a sea of red and white as revellers sing and dance in the summer sunshine.

Mike Marshall, 30, is predicting a 4-0 England victory.

He said: 'After the Columbia game - that was the most nerve-wracking game of my life - we have to get through. It would be criminal not to.'

Dan Chorlton, 35, predicted a 2-1 win in extra time.

'It's going to be a Vardy party,' he said.

Gareth Southgate, pictured, showed his support for the fans at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium ahead of the game

England fans have kitted themselves out in the national colours as they queue to get into bars and pubs in London for the huge match against Croatia tonight

Others have flocked to Hyde Park where 30,000 fans will watch the World Cup semi final on a big screen, the largest such event in London since Euro '96. Pictured is a woman waving an England flag

These fans are waiting patiently in London outside a sports bar wearing their England shirts in support of the players

This fan in Nottingham has well and truly thrown himself into the match spirit, carrying several flags and England paraphernalia

Some in London had nervous looks on their faces, pictured, as time ran down towards the kick off and so much riding on the result

The crowd at Hyde Park tonight, pictured, is the biggest outdoor screen event in London since an England game at Euro 96

One fan dressed up as Gareth Southgate complete with facemask, pictured, to show his support for the England team at Hyde Park

These ladies were all smiles and full of confidence as they arrived at Hyde Park tonight for the England match

One little boy showed his support for Gareth Southgate's side by posing with a flag in front of Robin Hood's statue in Nottingham

Two fans enjoy the build-up to the game in Nottingham wearing clothes emboldened with the England crest

Today fans have been in a state of high excitement and anxiety ahead of England's most important match for 28 years, admitting they couldn't sleep last night and work became a 'non-event' today.

Many took to social media as they celebrated leaving work hours early and heading to the pub for a drink to calm their already frayed nerves.

Charlie Clarke tweeted: 'England needs to get to the semi finals more often. our office have all sacked off work and now we're at the pub amazing' and Shona Fran wrote: 'Banked out from work 5 hours early, GET ME TO THE PUB ENGLAND'.

Millions knocking off early is set to cause chaos on the roads and railways with rush hour starting at 2pm instead of 4pm and peaking at around 5pm.

But cities, towns and villages should all be deserted by 7pm and will be 'much quieter than Christmas Day', according to the RAC.

Edmund King, president of the AA, said: 'Historically, the biggest TV events and quietest roads in the UK were during the World Cup final in 1966 followed by the funeral of Diana, Apollo 13, royal weddings and Muhammad Ali's 'Rumble in the Jungle'. This game will join the list'.

Primary School pupils in Chorley, Lancashire, jig on their chairs singing 'Three Lions' and office workers dance by their desks ahead of England's first World Cup semi-final for 28 years

Fans are already arriving at Hyde Park where 30,000 fans including this colourfully dressed gentleman will watch the game

Huge crowds will watch the game at Hyde Park (pictured), across London and other cities such a Manchester, Newcastle, Nottingham, Leeds, Bristol and Brighton.

Families across the country are wearing their England shirts - or Gareth Southgate-inspired waistcoats - as the country gets ready for more World Cup drama tonight

Young fans Gabriel, six, right, and Aryan, four, left, are among the lucky 10,000 in Moscow tonight for the match of their lives

Workers at Hills Salvage and Recycling in Skelmersdale, Lancashire, which sits in the flight path for both Manchester and Liverpool John Lennon airports, created the huge flag from 176 red and white cars to cheer the team on

The ancient Westbury White Horse in Wiltshire has even been turned into an England flag and Southgate station in north London became 'Gareth Southgate' for the day

The scaffolding on the outside of this building in Brighton has been turned into a giant England flag as World Cup fever sweeps the country

Fans are already leaving work in their droves and heading to the pub to settle in for another dramatic night of football

10,000 England fans are in Moscow hoping to get into the sold-out Luzhniki Stadium and are willing to pay £500-plus for a ticket having paid £3,000 or more on flights to be there.

Tube strike to hit thousands of England fans is now called off A Tube strike due to start at 9pm tonight causing chaos at the end of England's World Cup battle with Croatia has been called off at the last minute. Piccadilly Line drivers were due to walk out as thousands of fans leave London's pubs and squares to head home after the game. But with just five hours until the industrial action the RMT union announced it was off after talks with Transport for London. Passengers needing to use the Piccadilly Line were being urged to complete their journey by 10pm to avoid getting marooned. If England's game goes to extra time and penalties thousands would have struggled to get home at all. The industrial action was due to coincide with Donald Trump visit to the capital. Advertisement

If the team win it will spark complete pandemonium up and down the land even before they play in the World Cup final against France on Sunday - the first since 1966.

While the majority of supporters will watch the game at home, pubs will have their busiest night of the year with 20million pints sold - but an estimated 50,000 of them will be thrown every time England score.

Arron Besser tweeted: 'Biggest game in 28 years. Incredibly nervous and excited but whatever happens I am so proud of this England team so come on let's do it and get to the final!!'.

Alison Carr wrote: 'The day is here..... the day England have waited ten thousand, two hundred and thirty four days for. That's how long it's been since England last played a World Cup semi final'.

A video of Framfield Church of England Primary School in East Sussex singing 'Three Lions' with gusto is trending after it was retweeted by stars including former England striker Gary Lineker.

Today has also been branded 'Waistcoat Wednesday' by fans wearing one in an ode to England manager Gareth Southgate, who even had a pub and north London Tube station renamed in his honour.

He believes his heroes have the power to unite England by securing a place in the World Cup final.

And last night 1990 hero Paul Gascoigne, who famously cried during the Turin semi-final defeat to West Germany, has sent a message to the team.

He told the Mirror: 'Come on, boys, bring this cup home. You have nothing to fear. To conquer fear, you have to face it. It is OK to cry when you win, then you have achieved something'.

Roundabouts in the West Midlands and road crossings on the Isle of Wight have been painted red and white by members of the public overnight as the country is gripped by World Cup excitement

Boat builders in Cowes have painted the biggest cross of St George in Britain on their hangar doors

This van in Lancashire has 'It's Coming Home' scrawled on its roof as people get revved up for the game

Ally Ginger, 17, and his workmates who are busy building the football pitches in Central Park Plymouth have spraypainted their bulldozers, with temporary paint, to get behind the boys. They predict a 2-0 win for the Three Lions

Former England manager Sir Bobby Robson would have been 'thrilled' by the progress of the current side at the 2018 World Cup, his widow has said.

Lady Elsie Robson also claimed that the former manager would be willing Gareth Southgate and his team to win the tournament 'with every fibre of his being'.

Sir Geoff Hurst is 'convinced' England will emulate the success of his 1966 team by lifting this year's World Cup.

The striker - who remains the only man to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final - thinks a 2018 win would bring wilder celebrations - because the tournament is '1,000 times bigger' than it was 52 years ago.

'Scrooge' Jaguar Land Rover bosses won't let their workers go home early for the match Workers at Jaguar Land Rover on Merseyside have been refused permission to cut their shifts short to watch the England match. The decision caused fury because thousands of colleagues based at the West Midlands plant can. Bosses say that the Merseyside factory is too busy to finish before 7pm. They have also ruled out putting up TVs. One furious worker told the Liverpool Echo: 'We thought we would be allowed to watch it. 'It's disgusting. We're not allowed to support our own country.' Bosses responded by saying they understood their frustrations but said customers' orders come first. Advertisement

Sir Geoff said: 'Bearing in mind the last two tournaments were an absolute disaster, if I said before the tournament that we were going to win it I would have been looked upon as being deranged.

'But now you ask me today - and we can win it, it's as simple as that'.

Prince William has sent a message to the squad and said: 'A new generation is enjoying the magic of this World Cup run.

'The whole country is right behind you tonight. Come on England - it's coming home'.

Prime Minister Theresa May wished the England team 'all the very best of luck' in their World Cup semi-final against Croatia on Wednesday.

Arriving at the Nato summit in Brussels, Mrs May said: 'Good luck to the team tonight. I met the Croatian prime minister yesterday and we exchanged football shirts.

'Gareth Southgate and the boys have done a fantastic job and I'm sure that they are going to go on to do well. I just wish them all the very best of luck tonight.'

Ahead of this evening's semi-final against Croatia, Mr Southgate urged everyone to put differences to one side to cheer his side into what would be a first World Cup final in 52 years.

'Our country has had a long time of suffering in terms of football, the enthusiasm the supporters have for these players, not only because of the way they've played but how they've conducted themselves (has been great),' said the England boss.

'Our country has been through some difficult moments recently in terms of its unity, but sport can unite. Football can unite. We can feel the energy and support from home, and that's a privilege.'

Midfielder Jordan Henderson added: 'It's a special feeling to know people back home and here are enjoying the experience as much as we are. All the celebrations inspire us as players to bring the nation together and put smiles on people's faces. That's the biggest thing so far. We want to continue doing everybody proud.'

England fans all in Southgate-style waistcoats enjoy their day in Moscow before tonight's crunch match

Delighted England fans in Red Square last night but back home many are anxious about the match

England fans are gathering in Moscow for the big game with Croatia as millions at home face an anxious wait for the biggest game for 28 years

Among those to get into the spirit of #waistcoatwednesday were Good Morning Britain presenters Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid (pictured)

Gladstone, the resident Chief Mouser of HM Treasury at Whitehall, sports a tweed waistcoat in support of England tonight

Tanya Sansford posted a picture of herself wearing an England shirt with a colleague she works with at Marks and Spencer while Steve Parrett has an alternative Three Lions on his shirt today

Many admitted that the day was dragging at work as they prepared to watch the game at home or in pubs across the land

Fans admit they are crippled by nerves and trying, sometimes unsuccessfully, to get out of work early for the big game

Southgate is set to name an unchanged side for the third consecutive game.

1966 hero Sir Geoff Hurst believes the World Cup is 'coming home' Sir Geoff Hurst is 'convinced' England will emulate the success of his 1966 team by lifting this year's World Cup. The striker - who remains the only man to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final - said the players have the chance to become immortal. And he thinks a 2018 win would bring wilder celebrations - because the tournament is '1,000 times bigger' than it was 52 years ago. Sir Geoff said: 'Bearing in mind the last two tournaments were an absolute disaster, if I said before the tournament that we were going to win it I would have been looked upon as being deranged. 'But now you ask me today - and we can win it, it's as simple as that. 'I am absolutely convinced it will happen, the interest throughout the country with photographs and videos of people celebrating is like nothing before. 'The advice I would give the England team going into the semi-finals is continue to do whatever it is you are doing. They have a great opportunity to make a mark for themselves and their profession. 'When you win a World Cup it does put you in a different category to everybody else - because there are only 11 players in this country who have won it and it will change their football careers and their lives.' Advertisement

His youthful side have become one of the stories of the tournament, reaching the semi-finals with a fresh and stylish philosophy that bodes well for the future.

And no matter what happens tonight, Southgate insists their World Cup run is merely the beginning of what he believes will be a fruitful legacy.

'I've been involved in all the plans through the age groups,' added Southgate.

'To have seen our younger teams have success is hugely rewarding. We know our academies are producing technically good players.

'We made a lot of changes with the national teams but lots of changes that helped us to be successful. We believe we have to continue doing that, constantly evolve and improve. This team, the same. The experiences of the last few weeks, the milestones they've hit, are a great reference point moving forward.

'We have players in this squad who will take us forward and others coming through the age groups with belief they can win but also expectations that we should be in latter stages more regularly.'

Many have turned to the black market to try to get tickets for England's first semi-final in 28 years.

Last night ticket touts were operating outside the Fifa ticketing centre near Dobryninskaya Metro station as England fans arrived in Moscow trying to find tickets.

In desperation, some fans walked around Red Square wearing placards pleading for entry to the match.

Patrick James, 26, from Welling, Kent, arrived in Moscow on Monday.

Within hours he had turned to a World Cup Facebook page which saw those keen to get rid of tickets offering them to the highest bidders.

He said: 'Basically, I went on the site and within an hour I had about 15 people – a lot of them Russians – offering category one and two tickets which cost between £200 and £330 for the semi-final for twice that amount.

'In the end I have agreed a £500 price with a guy I am going to meet four hours before the kick-off near the stadium.

'He is a Russian fan and obviously disappointed his team went out of the competition. But for me this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I don't want to miss it.'

The wives and girlfriends of England players have sent their love and support for the boys by posting pictures of them kissing after matches including Rebekah Vardy and Harry Maguire's partner Fern Hawkins

Elton John posted pictures of his boys in their football shirts ahead of the game tonight

Pupils, parents and teachers at Padnell Infant School in Portsmouth sent their best wishes to former student Gareth Southgate

Staff at Next's headquarters in Leicester have got into the spirit of the big game by wearing shirts and having flags on the reception desk

Nortree Motor company in Melksham, Wiltshire, have given some of their cars some very special numberplates for the day

Recite Me's office in Gateshead has a special message on its top floor and the company says it is their way of 'showing our support for the lads tonight'

Bosses urged not to be too hard on tired England fans tomorrow Unions and politicians are calling for a bank holiday if England win the World Cup - and for bosses to be sympathetic to their workforce if they are a little worse for wear on Thursday morning. As England gear up for their semi-final clash against Croatia, employers across the country may be worried that productivity will slump to zero if the national team make it to the final. But the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has urged employers to be understanding and let their staff enjoy the moment. It has called on managers to arrange flexible working hours or allow staff to work at home and to be as generous as possible with annual leave requests. TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady thinks a victory for England is worthy of a national holiday. She said: 'We have fewer bank holidays than most of Europe, Giving people a day off to celebrate the World Cup would be great for the country and isn't going to crash the economy. 'Workers put in billions worth of unpaid overtime each. They should be allowed to enjoy special occasions. Come on England.' More than 200,000 people have now signed petition calling for a new bank holiday this Monday if England wins the World Cup . The appeal on the Parliament website said a nationwide day off will be needed because if England are victorious on Sunday because the following 24 hours will 'not be pleasant' for fans. Advertisement

Another England fan, who gave his name only as George from Doncaster, was haggling with touts and individual fans selling tickets to try and get one below face value.

He said he had three friends coming who would also need tickets. He was offered category one tickets for $900 (£678) and category two tickets for $650 (£490) by a tout called Frank, who said he had seven tickets for sale and could not drop his prices because they were set by his 'boss'.

Mark Roberts, of the National Police Chiefs' Council, said: 'We're estimating eight to 10,000 [England fans].'

Asked how many might be ticketless, he said: 'It's difficult to judge, we know from the ticket sales we can probably reasonably expect through official channels about half that number to get tickets. Hopefully they can enjoy the atmosphere in the fan fest.'

Back home England's 40,000 pubs will be packed. The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) predicts ten million extra pints will be served during the match, delivering a boost to the national economy of up to £30million.

'It's fantastic news for both English football and the Great British pub,' BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said.

As in previous games, thousands of fans will watch the game on big screens across the country including in Hyde Park, London and venues in Manchester, Bristol and Liverpool.

Last night a spokesman for media analysts Kantar Media said: 'There will be an increased audience due to patriotism and pride. Children will be allowed to stay up late, with whole families gathered around TVs for a national event.'

A spokesman for the Broadcasters' Audience Research Board (BARB) added: 'Previous tournaments have shown the size of TV audiences England games can achieve. Evenings are prime time. Average audience ratings are for TV sets only and do not include big screens and pubs.'

The crew of the British minesweeper HMS Ledbury is on stand-by for England's big FIFA World Cup semi-final showdown against Croatia in Moscow tonight.

The ship, which is patrolling The Gulf protecting key shipping lanes and the flow of international trade has a crew of 47 including sailors, mine warfare experts, clearance divers with bomb disposal expertise as well as engineers.

She is the oldest sea-going ship in the Royal Navy.

Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Charles Collins said: 'We may be a long way from home but we can feel the excitement on board just as much as the England fans in the pubs and the parks.'

Up to 10,000 England fans are trying to get to Russia for the biggest World Cup for a generation

England's win over Sweden in Samara on Saturday put the team one game away from the final

Boss Gareth Southgate puts his arm around star striker Harry Kane after beating Sweden and the nation will watch them with excitement and trepidation tonight

It's Red, White and Blue Square! England invasion as 10,000 fans flood in to Moscow ahead of country's biggest game for a generation - and Harry Kane's pregnant fiancee tells him: 'Bring it home, skip!'

England fans this afternoon turned Moscow's Red Square red, white and blue ahead of the country's biggest game for 28 years.

Around 10,000 supporters have been pouring into the Russian capital as Gareth Southgate's men take on Croatia for a place in the final.

England quarter final goal hero Harry McGuire's girlfriend Fern Hawkins was seen mingling with Three Lions fans in Moscow next to the Kremlin just hours before kick off at the Luzhniki Stadium.

Gareth Southgate's wife Alison and their two children have jetted to the Russian capital for the game and Jamie Vardy's wife Becky has been posting her support for the boys on Instagram.

Back home, England captain Harry Kane's heavily pregnant fiancee Kate Goodall told him to bring the World Cup home.

England fans in Red Square, Moscow ahead to the World Cup semi-final between England and Croatia at the Luzhniki Stadium

Bruce Wright , DD Murray, Dex Marshall and Miles Rudham in Red Square , Moscow ahead to the World Cup semi-final between England and Croatia at the Luzhniki Stadium

Sam,51 and Lorne,45 Vary with their children Jaxon 15 and Faren , 13 England fans in Red Square , Moscow ahead to the World Cup

Harry McGuire's girlfriend Fern was all smiles as she walked around Red Square, Moscow, this afternoon - just hours before her man takes appears in England's biggest game for 28 years

England fans dressed in waistcoats Ned Macdonald and Andy Blunden from Brightonin Nikolskaya street, Moscow

England fans dressed in waistcoats Ned Macdonald and Andy Blunden from Brightonin Nikolskaya street

Those England fans who have jetted in for the semi-final have backed Southgate's young team to reach the nation's first World Cup final in 52 years.

Supporters showed their colours in central Moscow ahead of the semi-final against Croatia and said they believed the key to success was the youthful team's work ethic and pride.

The 23-man squad, which has an average age of just over 26 and was the tournament's third youngest, have the hopes and expectations of a nation on their shoulders.

The Duke of Cambridge, who is president of the Football Association, told the Three Lions the whole country is behind them. William said: 'Come on England - it's coming home!'

Among the supporters who have made the trip were father and son Joe and Andrew Settle, from Bolton, who have never travelled away with England but decided they could not miss the chance to see the national side in a World Cup semi-final.

For Joe, 62, it will be his first live England match. He said: 'I'm hoping their (Croatia's) luck has run out. Two penalty shootouts and they weren't that good, they just scraped through. I think it's our year this time.

'There's no out and out stars and everybody just looks at them as young lads, making their way out, they've not got above their station. And they're just thinking, 'we'll get behind these lads'.

'They're not bothered about the money, they look like they are enjoying it, they want to do it and they're proud to do it for their country.'

He predicted a 2-0 England win and said he believed the celebrations would be on a larger scale than in 1966 if England go on to win the trophy.

'I remember watching 66 on TV as a little lad and going outside playing football afterwards until it was dark,' he said.

'It was very uplifting for the country but because there was no internet, not as much media, you didn't actually know what was going on.

'There were some newsreels and everybody was uplifted but this time, from every part to the country, you are going to see what's happening - it's going to be brilliant.'

Kate Goodall posted this throwback photo of of her man Harry Kane scoring on his debut for England against Lithuania in 2015 with the words, 'What a long way you've come!'

Becky Vardy, who is unofficial leader of the English WAGs in Russia, posted this photo as she flew to Moscow this morning ready for the game with the caption: 'Come on England'

Jamie Vardy's wife also posted this photo on Instagram as she gets ready to cheer on the boys

Model Lauryn Goodman, who is dating England star Marcus Rashford's brother, is in Red Square to show her support - and says she is 'excited' about tonight's big match

George Lee, 59, from Hull, also backed Southgate's young team to get to the final, predicting a 2-1 win.

He said: 'We thought we'd do well because you've got all the youngsters in now, you know there's no superstars where they just walk about, 'I can do what I like'.

'They're all young, hard-working lads. These are good kids, hopefully they will win it for us. It's exciting times for these young fellas.'

Scott Ratcliffe and his 10-year-old son Eliott, who has broken up from school, were in the queue to pick up their Fan IDs, having arrived in Moscow on Tuesday.

The 46-year-old, from Four Oaks in Birmingham, said: 'Absolutely flying - can't explain how good it feels, especially after Italia 90.

'I couldn't get there, tried three times so I've waited 28 years to get here.

'I think it's going to be very tight, Croatia are not going to be a pushover, by any means.

'They've got a good side, they've improved over the years, but I look at England at the moment and think we've got a fantastic side.

'You've got to look at that squad now and think, you know what, they're going to get a result.'

Model Lauryn Goodman is in Russia as she is the girlfriend of Marcus Rashford's brother.

'This is my first World Cup game and I just feel that from the semi finals it gets real. It gets serious. I can't wait,' she said.

Fans who flew in without tickets were being asked to pay up for tickets at four times the face value.

Greedy touts inside Red Square were preying on football fans by selling the best seats with a face value of £326 for £1,750.

One fan bought a ticket with a face value of around £100 for £600.

Ian Clatworthy, 33, from Solihull said: 'I couldn't come this far and not see the match. 'I had a budget of £1,000 so I suppose I've done alright but it is a shame for the guys who won't be able to see the game.'

Meanwhile two more supporters said they felt 'lucky' at only having to pay £800 each for tickets originally costing £100.

Alex Bradbury, 26, a West Ham fan, abandoned his lads weekend in Nashville and flew from the US to see the game and he and his friend fellow Londoner Robert Oliver.

The advertising executive who works in America said: 'Its scandalous that we are being asked these prices.

'It's great that Rob and I have got ours but it hurts a lot to have to pay this amount of money to see your country at the World Cup.

'It's always the same when there's a massive tournament and people have to and be willing to pay these ridiculous prices.

'For me and Rob all we have ever heard about is Italy 1990 as we weren't even born so it's a dream to see England in the semi final.

'This World Cup has cost us a small fortune as we had tickets for the group stages but were put off by the talk of violence and racism.

'But since we got in last night, the Russians except for the touts have been amazingly friendly.

Alex Bradbury (left), 26, a West Ham fan, abandoned his lads weekend in Nashville and flew from the US to see the game and he and his friend fellow Londoner Robert Oliver (right)

A Russian police officer poses with a Gareth Southgate lookalike in Moscow's Red Square

England fans mingled with supporters of Croatia, who England face for a final place

'After watching every match at the pub and with huge regret for not coming we decided on Sunday night after a few beers that we had to do it and bought a one way flight and a hotel for 2 days all right there and then spreading the cost over multiple cards.

'I was in Nashville on a lads weekend away and rob was sat in his local in the east village in New York.

'We are still working on tickets for the final while also needing to find another hotel and arrange a return flight at some point to go back to work. 'Both of our company bosses have been more than happy for us to come to cheer on England despite us giving no notice and just getting on a plane.'

Croatian fan Igor Hazellear, 26, said: ' I can not afford these prices. We earn less. Indy than the English. I will watch in a bar here.'

Friends Will Carr and Dale Goulding, who made the decision to book flights last Thursday before progress was guaranteed.

Mr Goulding, 27, from Clapham Junction, south London, said the plan was to get to the ticket office early and pick up any tickets being resold through official channels, and failing that they would play the touts at their own game.

'What the touts are doing is getting people coming to the Fifa ticket office and saying I'll give you £50 more, knowing they can sell it to and England fan for £150 more,' he said.

'We are going to turn up in our England tops - we're genuine. We are going to do what they are doing.

England fans travel out to Moscow in force for the semi-final with Croatia on Wednesday

England fans have begun arriving in Red Square ready for Wednesday night's game against Croatia for a place in their first World Cup final in 52 years at stake

'We are going to stand there and say, 'any tickets, we need a ticket', and if that doesn't work, we'll go to the ground.'

Mr Carr, 25, from Acomb, in York, said the pair knew they had to get to Russia for the game, given neither were alive the last time England played such a crucial tie.

'Everyone's believing,' he said.

Among the first to arrive were Leeds fans Ryan Rodley, 27, and Jordan Gilmore, 29, who landed in Moscow from Manchester via Helsinki.

Ryan, who runs a scaffolding firm, said: 'We went 1-0 up against Sweden and we were booking our flights which cost £270.

'We didn't know what to expect once we got here. We had no hotel and definitely very little chance of a ticket. But we had to hope.'

Jordan added: 'This morning we paid £600 each to some Russian touts outside the official FIFA ticket office.

'We didn't want to risk not getting a ticket as the lines were long and nobody was giving out any information. Now we are all in and it's going to be great.'

Jonathan Earlman, 33, another of the group who we're sipping beer on Red Square, added: 'It's going to be 2-0 to England. Once we really are in the World Cup final, we'll sea with the ticket situation. I've heard they are going to be around £2000 each.'

'So hard to concentrate... please can it be 7pm already?' Anxious England fans post hilarious memes moaning about being stuck at work ahead of tonight's World Cup clash

Anxious England fans are posting hilarious memes moaning about being stuck at work as they count down the minutes to the historic World Cup clash with Croatia.

Workers across the country are struggling to concentrate at their desks as they nervously clock-watch their way through one last shift before tonight's big match.

England will face off against Croatia in Moscow at 7pm tonight, after sailing through their quarter-final clash with Sweden with a 2-0 win.

But even after waiting 28 years to reach a World Cup semi-final, the anticipation of just one more day is proving too much for most of England's workforce.

Anxious England fans are posting hilarious memes moaning about being stuck at work as they count down the minutes to the historic World Cup clash with Croatia

Workers across the country are struggling to concentrate at their desks as they nervously clock-watch their way through one last shift before tonight's big match

Even after waiting 28 years to reach a World Cup semi-final, the anticipation of just one more day is proving too much for most of England's workforce

Craig Nicholson tweeted: 'Why isn't it 7pm yet? Having to go to WORK when all the nation is doing is plotting how England win tonight.

'Currently have the tea Cup upfront with my mouse mat on the wing. Seriously it's our time - LETS GO ENGLAND.'

Meanwhile, England fan Jay Harriot asked: 'Anyone else sat at work counting down the minutes?'

Nervous football fans across England are also embracing 'Waistcoat Wednesday' this morning ahead of the national side's momentous game against Croatia.

Everyone from officer workers to morning television presenters are donning sleeveless vests in anticipation of England's first World Cup semi-final since 1990.

Unfashionable for decades, suddenly waistcoats are selling out thanks to Gareth Southgate... so here's the tricks to get them right, whatever your gender

As England's footballers lined up for their penalty shoot-out against Colombia last Tuesday, the temperature inside Moscow's Spartak Stadium was a balmy 20 degrees.

Watching at home and perspiring like wildebeest, there was something so reassuring about the team's unflappable manager Gareth Southgate, who remained on the touchline a Zen-like figure of calm.

His blue shirt remained devoid of any flecks of damp. His tie was affixed in a neat Windsor knot.

Trend setter: Gareth Southgate, Manager of England

From left, John Virgo, David Beckham and Eddie Izzard: but Henry Deedes suggests stepping away from jazzy, silky numbers and 'slobby sleeves'. Izzard looks 'perfect', he says

Most of all though, it was that waistcoat which, in this tensest of situations, remained resolutely fastened.

That, my friends, is what I call style.

Waistcoats have had a rough ride over the last few years. They are to men what the beret is to women. Hard to pull off, oh so easy to ridicule.

But Gareth's waistcoat is leading a resurgence. M&S, who provided the England team kit, say they've nearly run out of the £65 garment such has been the demand – and their other styles have seen huge spikes in sales.

Even the Moscow branch of M&S has run out of most sizes of the waistcoat.

And now there's 'Waistcoat Wednesday' – a huge social media movement urging both sexes to wear waistcoats in support of England during the semi-final against Croatia. Hugh Grant has tweeted he's taking part, as have presenters Andrew Marr and Jeremy Vine.

Why the waistcoat resurgence? It helps Gareth wears one properly – well-fitting (never baggy) and with the bottom button unfastened (don't ask why, you just do).

Female celebs including Victoria Beckham, Catherine Zeta-Jones and cyclist Victoria Pendleton (right). Henry Deedes approves of Zeta-Jones's 'monochrome magic', and says Pendleton 'looks fabulous'. However, he was unimpressed with Beckham wearing nothing underneath her waistcoat (left)

But perhaps people feel they also in some way reflect this likeable young England side: They're bold, innovative, endearing – a hark back to more genteel, civilised era.

So chaps, get rootling around your wardrobe to find that cast-off you wore several years ago to your mate's wedding.

Now fasten it up – doesn't that snug sensation around your front make you feel more muscular, more, dare I say it, manly?

Thanks to Gareth, waistcoats are cool and ripe for a comeback.

Bring 'em home, boys.