The nation holds its breath: England grinds to a halt as Euros clash with old rivals Germany

Is it coming home? Lucky royal mascot Prince George sees England crush Germany 2-0 at his first international as Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane put Three Lions into the Euro quarters finals

  • Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling first slot the ball home during England’s titanic clash with its old rival 
  • England captain Kane then headed ball into goal, giving England a 2-0 advantage against Germany
  • Waves of rapturous applause filled Wembley stadium at the goals which broke a 0-0 first half deadlock 
  • 45,000 fans gathered to watch at Wembley – but this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

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Prince George watched as England crushed Germany 2-0 at his first international football match – as Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane put the Three Lions into the Euro quarters finals.

The seven-year-old future king watched with his parents, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as Manchester City’s Sterling first slot the ball home during England’s titanic clash with its old rival at Wembley Stadium.

Moments later, England captain Kane headed the ball into the goal, with his side holding off Germany captain Manuel Neuer’s team all the way to the final whistle.

England’s triumphant win sparked hopes among millions of fans that Gareth Southgate’s squad could take the game all the way home this year. 

Waves of rapturous applause filled Wembley Stadium at the goals which broke a 0-0 first half deadlock – with 45,000 fans gathered to watch in person.

While the figure is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity, it marks the biggest crowd at an event seen since the pandemic began last year. 

Among the spectators were avid football fan Prince William, his wife Kate and their son Prince George, who sat in a box along with football legend David Beckham and pop star Ed Sheeran. 

The group watched as the match kicked off to a nail-biting start, with West Ham player Declan Rice handed a yellow card in the first ten minutes.

And, just seconds before the half time whistle was blown, England captain Harry Kane had the ball robbed from him with the Germany goal wide open after a brilliant run by Raheem Sterling. 

The second half saw Germany step up their play, but they still proved no match for Gareth’s Southgate’s side – with a fantastic save by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford from Chelsea’s Kai Havertz. 

The crowd erupted into thunderous cheers when fan-favourite Jack Grealish replaced Bukayo Saka in the 68th minute, in a moved hoped to spark England’s side into their first goal. 

And the move proved a huge success. Kane came to life as he found Grealish who fed Luke Shaw on the left. His low ball into the box was slotted home by Sterling.

Prince George watched as England crushed Germany 2-0 at his first international football match - as Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane put the Three Lions into the Euro quarters finals

Prince George watched as England crushed Germany 2-0 at his first international football match - as Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane put the Three Lions into the Euro quarters finals

Prince George watched as England crushed Germany 2-0 at his first international football match – as Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane put the Three Lions into the Euro quarters finals 

Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane (pictured) put England 2-0 up against Germany at Wembley to the delight of millions of Football-hungry fans

Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane (pictured) put England 2-0 up against Germany at Wembley to the delight of millions of Football-hungry fans

Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane (pictured) put England 2-0 up against Germany at Wembley to the delight of millions of Football-hungry fans

Manchester City's Sterling (pictured) first slot the ball home during England's titanic clash with its old rival. Moments later, England captain Kane headed the ball into the goal, giving England a 2-0 advantage against Germany captain Manuel Neuer's side

Manchester City's Sterling (pictured) first slot the ball home during England's titanic clash with its old rival. Moments later, England captain Kane headed the ball into the goal, giving England a 2-0 advantage against Germany captain Manuel Neuer's side

Manchester City’s Sterling (pictured) first slot the ball home during England’s titanic clash with its old rival. Moments later, England captain Kane headed the ball into the goal, giving England a 2-0 advantage against Germany captain Manuel Neuer’s side

Prince William, Prince George and Kate Middleton are seen watching the match from the stands today

Prince William, Prince George and Kate Middleton are seen watching the match from the stands today

Prince William, Prince George and Kate Middleton are seen watching the match from the stands today

Prince William is seen cheering after England scored against Germany - as his wife Kate Middleton and son George watch on

Prince William is seen cheering after England scored against Germany - as his wife Kate Middleton and son George watch on

Prince William is seen cheering after England scored against Germany – as his wife Kate Middleton and son George watch on 

England fans were left biting their nails after the first half of their sides Euros clash against Germany ended in 0-0 - with captain Harry Kane missing a golden chance in the final seconds

England fans were left biting their nails after the first half of their sides Euros clash against Germany ended in 0-0 - with captain Harry Kane missing a golden chance in the final seconds

England fans were left biting their nails after the first half of their sides Euros clash against Germany ended in 0-0 – with captain Harry Kane missing a golden chance in the final seconds

Germany captain Manuel Neuer’s team joined England players in taking the knee before today’s fixture

Capacity at Wembley Stadium will double to 45,000 tonight with England given the home advantage - although this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

Capacity at Wembley Stadium will double to 45,000 tonight with England given the home advantage - although this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

Capacity at Wembley Stadium will double to 45,000 tonight with England given the home advantage – although this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

Jack Grealish has been dropped in favour of Kieran Trippier in the only major change by England boss Gareth Southgate. Pictured: The England squad ahead of tonight's game

Jack Grealish has been dropped in favour of Kieran Trippier in the only major change by England boss Gareth Southgate. Pictured: The England squad ahead of tonight's game

Jack Grealish has been dropped in favour of Kieran Trippier in the only major change by England boss Gareth Southgate. Pictured: The England squad ahead of tonight’s game

The teams - with Germany's squad on the right and England on the left - stand on the pitch prior to tonight's match

The teams - with Germany's squad on the right and England on the left - stand on the pitch prior to tonight's match

The teams – with Germany’s squad on the right and England on the left – stand on the pitch prior to tonight’s match 

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is seen watching the England v Germany match along with his wife Carrie

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is seen watching the England v Germany match along with his wife Carrie

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is seen watching the England v Germany match along with his wife Carrie

Earlier, Neuer’s team joined England players in taking the knee before today’s fixture in a stand against racism.

The protest act has been mired in controversy throughout the tournament, with the FA fearing unhappy crowds would boo players. But any discontent from spectators was drowned out by loud cheering from both sides.

But the teams’ national anthems were a different story, with boos ringing out from the England-heavy crowd as Germany’s anthem played.

Both England captain Kane and his German counterpart Neuer are wearing rainbow armbands in support of Pride month during tonight’s showdown.

Manuel Neuer and Antonio Ruediger of Germany applaud after the national anthem prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Round of 16 match between England and Germany

Manuel Neuer and Antonio Ruediger of Germany applaud after the national anthem prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Round of 16 match between England and Germany

Manuel Neuer and Antonio Ruediger of Germany applaud after the national anthem prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 Championship Round of 16 match between England and Germany

Capacity at Wembley Stadium will double to 45,000 tonight with England given the home advantage - although this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

Capacity at Wembley Stadium will double to 45,000 tonight with England given the home advantage - although this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

Capacity at Wembley Stadium will double to 45,000 tonight with England given the home advantage – although this is still just over half of its normal 90,000 capacity

England fans show their support on Wembley Way prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match against Germany

England fans show their support on Wembley Way prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match against Germany

England fans show their support on Wembley Way prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match against Germany 

England players inspect the pitch ahead of the epic clash. Millions of fans will now be glued to their screens for the historic clash, with some no doubt well-refreshed after hitting the pub at 7am to grab a table

England players inspect the pitch ahead of the epic clash. Millions of fans will now be glued to their screens for the historic clash, with some no doubt well-refreshed after hitting the pub at 7am to grab a table

England players inspect the pitch ahead of the epic clash. Millions of fans will now be glued to their screens for the historic clash, with some no doubt well-refreshed after hitting the pub at 7am to grab a table

The game was soon off to a nail-biting start, with West Ham player Declan Rice given a yellow card in the first ten minutes (fans are seen reacting during the match)

The game was soon off to a nail-biting start, with West Ham player Declan Rice given a yellow card in the first ten minutes (fans are seen reacting during the match)

The game was soon off to a nail-biting start, with West Ham player Declan Rice given a yellow card in the first ten minutes (fans are seen reacting during the match) 

Fans are seen cheering in the stadium tonight. It marks the biggest crowd seen since the pandemic began last year

Fans are seen cheering in the stadium tonight. It marks the biggest crowd seen since the pandemic began last year

Fans are seen cheering in the stadium tonight. It marks the biggest crowd seen since the pandemic began last year

Kate, William and George were seen clapping during the match. They were seated in front of Ed Sheeran and David Beckham

Kate, William and George were seen clapping during the match. They were seated in front of Ed Sheeran and David Beckham

Kate, William and George were seen clapping during the match. They were seated in front of Ed Sheeran and David Beckham 

Ed Sheeran greets David Beckham in the Royal Box at Wembley Stadium. They were seated a few rows behind the Royals

Ed Sheeran greets David Beckham in the Royal Box at Wembley Stadium. They were seated a few rows behind the Royals

Ed Sheeran greets David Beckham in the Royal Box at Wembley Stadium. They were seated a few rows behind the Royals

Ed Sheeran is seen speaking to David Beckham's family while watching the match. They were seated a few rows behind Prince William and Kate Middleton

Ed Sheeran is seen speaking to David Beckham's family while watching the match. They were seated a few rows behind Prince William and Kate Middleton

Ed Sheeran is seen speaking to David Beckham’s family while watching the match. They were seated a few rows behind Prince William and Kate Middleton

Ellie Goulding and Caspar Jopling are seen watching the match at Wembley today. They join a star-studded cohort who turned out

Ellie Goulding and Caspar Jopling are seen watching the match at Wembley today. They join a star-studded cohort who turned out

Ellie Goulding and Caspar Jopling are seen watching the match at Wembley today. They join a star-studded cohort who turned out

Prince William is seen talking to David Beckham as they watched the match today. Beckham was joined by his son

Prince William is seen talking to David Beckham as they watched the match today. Beckham was joined by his son

Prince William is seen talking to David Beckham as they watched the match today. Beckham was joined by his son

A woman is seen holding her hands to her mouth as the game kicks off to a nail-biting start on Tuesday evening

A woman is seen holding her hands to her mouth as the game kicks off to a nail-biting start on Tuesday evening

A woman is seen holding her hands to her mouth as the game kicks off to a nail-biting start on Tuesday evening

Fans are seen gathering in Boxpark, Croydon, during the match this evening. They are socially distanced to limit the spread of Covid

Fans are seen gathering in Boxpark, Croydon, during the match this evening. They are socially distanced to limit the spread of Covid

Fans are seen gathering in Boxpark, Croydon, during the match this evening. They are socially distanced to limit the spread of Covid

England football fans celebrate outside Wembley Stadium ahead of the match against Germany tonight

England football fans celebrate outside Wembley Stadium ahead of the match against Germany tonight

England football fans celebrate outside Wembley Stadium ahead of the match against Germany tonight

Fans in Hastings kiss a Gareth Southgate cardboard cutout before they watch the UEFA Euro 2020 match against Germany

Fans in Hastings kiss a Gareth Southgate cardboard cutout before they watch the UEFA Euro 2020 match against Germany

Fans in Hastings kiss a Gareth Southgate cardboard cutout before they watch the UEFA Euro 2020 match against Germany

Gareth Southgate, head coach of England Steve Holland and assistant manager of England Graeme Jones stand for the national anthem

Gareth Southgate, head coach of England Steve Holland and assistant manager of England Graeme Jones stand for the national anthem

Gareth Southgate, head coach of England Steve Holland and assistant manager of England Graeme Jones stand for the national anthem 

Fans are seen cheering while watching the England vs Germany game at the Luna Springs in Digbeth, Birmingham, England

Fans are seen cheering while watching the England vs Germany game at the Luna Springs in Digbeth, Birmingham, England

Fans are seen cheering while watching the England vs Germany game at the Luna Springs in Digbeth, Birmingham, England

While West Ham player Declan Rice given a yellow card in the first ten minutes, Sterling quickly raised England fans’ hopes with an early long-range shot that tested German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.  

Hopes soared even further as Germany’s Matthias Ginter was booked for bringing down Luke Shaw on the German right flank.

But as the match approached the 30 minute mark, Harry Maguire missed a straightforward header, sending pulses racing in the iconic stadium. And Pickford was forced to act quickly to stop an effort by Chelsea’s Timo Werner.

Jack Grealish has been dropped in favour of Kieran Trippier in the only major change by England boss Gareth Southgate. 

England's Harry Kane appears injured during the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match against Germany

England's Harry Kane appears injured during the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match against Germany

England’s Harry Kane appears injured during the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match against Germany

Mats Hummels of Germany vies with Kane and Germany's Leon Goretzka during the match tonight

Mats Hummels of Germany vies with Kane and Germany's Leon Goretzka during the match tonight

Mats Hummels of Germany vies with Kane and Germany’s Leon Goretzka during the match tonight

Fans reacted in shock as the goal was narrowly missed today. They are seen gathered in socially distanced tables in Manchester

Fans reacted in shock as the goal was narrowly missed today. They are seen gathered in socially distanced tables in Manchester

Fans reacted in shock as the goal was narrowly missed today. They are seen gathered in socially distanced tables in Manchester

Fans watch the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the Trafalgar Square Fan Zone in London

Fans watch the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the Trafalgar Square Fan Zone in London

Fans watch the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the Trafalgar Square Fan Zone in London

Germany meanwhile make three alterations, with Chelsea’s Timo Werner restored along with Leon Goretzka and Thomas Muller as Ilkay Gundogan, Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sane drop out of the side that drew 2-2 with Hungary. 

The Three Lions have been pragmatic but somewhat underwhelming en route to the knockout stages, claiming two wins and a draw from their three Group D encounters without conceding a goal.

They now renew their long-standing rivalry with Germany, who squeezed through Group F – or the ‘group of death’ – to set up the eagerly-anticipated fixture.  

Boris Johnson and Sir Keir Starmer both urged employers to let their staff finish work early to watch the contest as football fans piled into pubs and thousands of supporters descend on Wembley and let off flares. 

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch Southgate’s squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm, while millions more are expected to head to their local – with some even hitting the boozers from as early as 7am this morning.

Tonight, the pubs of Soho were crowded with England fans watching the game although the surrounding streets remained quiet during rain. Fans were watching the game on their phones in The Montagu Pyke Wetherspoons.

Laura Cheney, 18, from Winchester, said: ‘Kane’s on there. We’re happy. They know what they’re doing.’

She said she would celebrate an England win with ‘lots of drinking’. Flo Lindlahr, 18, also from Winchester, added: ‘If we get through I reckon it’s coming home!’  

England football fans celebrated outside Wembley Stadium ahead of England match today. Drinks were sprayed into the air as supporters cheered

England football fans celebrated outside Wembley Stadium ahead of England match today. Drinks were sprayed into the air as supporters cheered

England football fans celebrated outside Wembley Stadium ahead of England match today. Drinks were sprayed into the air as supporters cheered 

England supporters sing the national anthem before kick-off at the 4TheFans Fan Park at Event City in Manchester

England supporters sing the national anthem before kick-off at the 4TheFans Fan Park at Event City in Manchester

England supporters sing the national anthem before kick-off at the 4TheFans Fan Park at Event City in Manchester

England supporters sing the national anthem with their hands on their hearts in Manchester ahead of the match

England supporters sing the national anthem with their hands on their hearts in Manchester ahead of the match

England supporters sing the national anthem with their hands on their hearts in Manchester ahead of the match 

Germany and England fans in the stands prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match at Wembley Stadium, London

Germany and England fans in the stands prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match at Wembley Stadium, London

Germany and England fans in the stands prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match at Wembley Stadium, London

The Prime Minister and Labour leader both called on bosses to let their staff finish early amid fears some will be stuck in the office at kick-off. Ahead of the match, Chancellor Rishi Sunak shared a photo of himself pulling on an England jersey with the caption: ‘Bring it on.’ 

With just over an hour to kick off Wembley Way was a riot of colour with flag waving fans patiently queuing to take their seats.

Long queues stretched from the entrances to the stadium as fans had to show proof of vaccination or a negative lateral flow tests. Fans had been told to leave extra time to get into the ground to avoid missing the 5pm kick off. 

Excitable fans let off red and white flares as they massed outside the stadium. With no alcohol allowed to be brought inside the stadium, thousands stood in Wembley Way drinking from cans and soaking up the atmosphere.

Two German supporters draped in their national flag were ignored as the fans were more interested in singing terrace songs, some referencing the war. But when a larger group walked past waving a black, yellow and red flag they were met boos and showered with beer prompting police to escort them to the ground.

An inflatable Spitfire was tossed among the crowd with one fan climbing up a tree to lead the chants. 

Former England player John Barnes is seen cheering along with fans as they prepare to watch tonight's match

Former England player John Barnes is seen cheering along with fans as they prepare to watch tonight's match

Former England player John Barnes is seen cheering along with fans as they prepare to watch tonight’s match

England fans cheer prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 match between England and Germany at Wembley stadium tonight

England fans cheer prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 match between England and Germany at Wembley stadium tonight

England fans cheer prior to the UEFA Euro 2020 match between England and Germany at Wembley stadium tonight

Kate Middleton, Prince George and Prince William clap for the England team ahead of the match against Germany tonight

Kate Middleton, Prince George and Prince William clap for the England team ahead of the match against Germany tonight

Kate Middleton, Prince George and Prince William clap for the England team ahead of the match against Germany tonight 

Former England player David Beckham is seen greeting Prince George as his beaming parents watched on today ahead of the match

Former England player David Beckham is seen greeting Prince George as his beaming parents watched on today ahead of the match

Former England player David Beckham is seen greeting Prince George as his beaming parents watched on today ahead of the match

The match is one of the most anticipated in recent memory, with fan parks sold out and more than five million pints expected to be bought. Supporters got into the swing of things early this morning with a beer garden in Sheffield filled with fans clutching pints and wearing England shirts at 7am. 

Meanwhile the Kirby housing estate in London was also draped in dozens of England flags ahead of the game, in scenes mirrored across the nation.  

Others took to social media to reveal they will be taking a sick day to ensure they can watch the match, with some lucky supporters revealing they will even be allowed to finish early by sympathetic bosses – meaning they will join around 22 million English fans set to tune in.  

And one fan keen to join in on the fun wrote on Twitter today: ‘I’ve got a stomach ache on the morning that England face Germany. I think my boss would kill me if I phoned in sick today! But I’m feeling [sick]. Damnit! Come on England!’  

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman said Mr Johnson hopes to watch as much of the England v Germany match as possible ‘in between his work commitments’ and is sending Southgate’s squad ‘the best of luck ahead of this afternoon’s game’. 

The spokesman added that ‘whenever possible we would want businesses and employers to make accommodations for people to be able to watch the match, if they are happy to do so’.

‘It’s for employers and managers, they are best placed to make those decisions on a case-by-case basis,’ the spokesman said. ‘The Prime Minister himself is hoping to see as much of the game as possible in between his work commitments.’

Sir Keir tweeted: ‘Good luck to @England ahead of today’s game against Germany. Staff should be allowed to finish early so they can watch the match.’ 

It is believed that only six per cent of British workers have been fortunate enough to get an early finish in order to catch the 5pm kickoff, according to LinkedIn researchers. 

An England fan waves an inflatable Spitfire ahead of the blockbuster match against Germany in the Euros at 5pm today

Loud and passionate England fans drank and tossed beer as they gathered outside Wembley stadium ahead of the England vs Germany match

Loud and passionate England fans drank and tossed beer as they gathered outside Wembley stadium ahead of the England vs Germany match

Loud and passionate England fans drank and tossed beer as they gathered outside Wembley stadium ahead of the England vs Germany match 

England fans react at Wembley ahead of the England v Germany match. 45,000 will be in attendance - the vast majority being English

England fans react at Wembley ahead of the England v Germany match. 45,000 will be in attendance - the vast majority being English

England fans react at Wembley ahead of the England v Germany match. 45,000 will be in attendance – the vast majority being English

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

The match will see England and Germany battle it out for a spot in the quarter final with millions of fans across the nation tuning in

The match will see England and Germany battle it out for a spot in the quarter final with millions of fans across the nation tuning in

The match will see England and Germany battle it out for a spot in the quarter final with millions of fans across the nation tuning in 

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

This England supporter looks ready for the blockbuster Euro 2020 round of 16 match against old rivals Germany at Wembley

This England supporter looks ready for the blockbuster Euro 2020 round of 16 match against old rivals Germany at Wembley

This England supporter looks ready for the blockbuster Euro 2020 round of 16 match against old rivals Germany at Wembley

England fans in Leicester Square and Soho getting ready for the big game against Germany, set to kick off at 5pm today

England fans in Leicester Square and Soho getting ready for the big game against Germany, set to kick off at 5pm today

England fans in Leicester Square and Soho getting ready for the big game against Germany, set to kick off at 5pm today

Supporters light a flare at Wembley Way, the entrance to Wembley Stadium in London, ahead of the match against Wembley

Supporters light a flare at Wembley Way, the entrance to Wembley Stadium in London, ahead of the match against Wembley

Supporters light a flare at Wembley Way, the entrance to Wembley Stadium in London, ahead of the match against Wembley

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch Gareth Southgate's squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch Gareth Southgate's squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch Gareth Southgate’s squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

England fans get the beers in at Box Park Wembley ahead of the match with Germany at 5pm

England fans get the beers in at Box Park Wembley ahead of the match with Germany at 5pm

England fans get the beers in at Box Park Wembley ahead of the match with Germany at 5pm

England fans gather outside the stadium before the match with Gareth Southgate's men set to face old rivals Germany

England fans gather outside the stadium before the match with Gareth Southgate's men set to face old rivals Germany

England fans gather outside the stadium before the match with Gareth Southgate’s men set to face old rivals Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to Gareth Southgate's squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to Gareth Southgate's squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to Gareth Southgate’s squad battle the Germans for a place in the quarter-finals from 5pm

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany at the 4TheFans fan zone outside Wembley Stadium

The Prime Minister and Labour leader both called called on bosses to let their staff finish early amid fears some will be stuck in the office at kick-off

The Prime Minister and Labour leader both called called on bosses to let their staff finish early amid fears some will be stuck in the office at kick-off

The Prime Minister and Labour leader both called called on bosses to let their staff finish early amid fears some will be stuck in the office at kick-off

Millions are expected to head to pubs across the country for the game - though there are fears some will be stuck at work because of the 5pm kick-off

Millions are expected to head to pubs across the country for the game - though there are fears some will be stuck at work because of the 5pm kick-off

Millions are expected to head to pubs across the country for the game – though there are fears some will be stuck at work because of the 5pm kick-off

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch the match and many shared photos of their pints as they headed to London

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch the match and many shared photos of their pints as they headed to London

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley to watch the match and many shared photos of their pints as they headed to London

The contest against Germany is one of the most-anticipated in recent memory, with fan parks sold out across the country and more than five million pints expected to be bought during the clash

The contest against Germany is one of the most-anticipated in recent memory, with fan parks sold out across the country and more than five million pints expected to be bought during the clash

The contest against Germany is one of the most-anticipated in recent memory, with fan parks sold out across the country and more than five million pints expected to be bought during the clash

England football fans (left to right) Alisia Shaw, 18, Chris Shaw, 40, Sean Foster, 40, and Rory Hibbert, 25, ahead of the England vs Germany game at the Big Tree, Greene King pub in Sheffield

England football fans (left to right) Alisia Shaw, 18, Chris Shaw, 40, Sean Foster, 40, and Rory Hibbert, 25, ahead of the England vs Germany game at the Big Tree, Greene King pub in Sheffield

England football fans (left to right) Alisia Shaw, 18, Chris Shaw, 40, Sean Foster, 40, and Rory Hibbert, 25, ahead of the England vs Germany game at the Big Tree, Greene King pub in Sheffield

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

Fans arrive at Wembley ahead of the UEFA Euro 2020 round of 16 match between England and Germany

On a Jubilee Line train to Wembley two female German fans expertly applied face paint in the colours of their national flag.

The women, who declined to give their names, drew admiring glances from tube train packed with England fans.

Despite being surrounded by fans in red and white England shirts the two ‘away’ fans were not intimidated.

‘I have lived in London for eight years and feel very comfortable showing of my allegiance to Germany, said one of the women.

Thirty-six MILLION working hours could be lost after England’s Euro 2020 match with Germany, warns LinkedIn researchers 

Up to 36 million working hours could be lost in the aftermath of England’s match with old foes Germany, according to new research from LinkedIn. 

Nearly three quarters of UK workers (71%) will be watching England take on Germany, with over a third (34%) of UK workers saying they expect their workplace productivity to drop after the match.

The fallout from the results will likely be the main distraction, with over a third (34%) stating they’ll do less work as they’ll be too busy discussing the game with colleagues.

A further 14% plan to take a restorative nap the day after the evening’s activities, 12% will enjoy an extended lunch break, and 11% will simply ignore some work calls.

Nearly 1 in 10 of workers (9%) believe they should be given flexible hours during major sporting occasions, but in reality only 6% have been fortunate enough to get an early finish in order to catch the 5pm kickoff on Tuesday.

Charlotte Davies, careers expert at LinkedIn, said: ‘After a tough year, when many of us have missed the camaraderie of the workplace, Tuesday’s match will offer an opportunity to lean on our colleagues to cheer, cry or offer a shoulder of (socially distanced) support. Whether it’s a victory or defeat for England, we hope it will provide a timely boost to workplace morale.’

 

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‘I know we will be out numbered but I just hope it’s an exciting game- and Germany to win’

Her friend added:’ We have had a few comments, but nothing bad. Everyone is in a good mood’

Steve Brice and his 12 year old son Jason. Waited their turn to have a mobile phone containing their tickets scanned by a steward.

Steve, 41, from Luton said: ‘ there is a great atmosphere and we want to savour it all.

‘Jason is too young to remember the times we have narrowly lost to Germany. I just hope we can do it tonight’

Chants of the popular anthem ‘Football’s Coming Home’ echoed round the packed pedestrian walkway towards the stadium

Not even a sudden downpour could dampen the buoyant mood as they converged on the stadium.

The Big Tree pub in Sheffield welcomed fired up fans in England shirts filter into its beer garden from the moment they opened their doors this morning, while the Greene King taproom has been dubbed the ‘best decorated’ in the UK after they draped the premises with more than 500 flags and 2,000 feet of bunting.

And today, it was filled with patriotic punters who joined in with a chorus of Baddiel and Skinner’s mega hit Three Lions as they sank pints hours ahead of kick off.

One eager supporter took the day off work and was knocking back a pint of Stella Artois at 7am. Mark Hartley, 40, woke up bright and early because he was so excited about the match and got to the pub shortly after they opened to down the ‘first of many’ pints.

He said: ‘I can’t wait, I have taken the day off and it’s going to be a fantastic occasion. If you’re not getting the day off, what are you doing? Two big teams going against each other, how could you miss this?’

The historic fixture, one of international football’s most intense rivalries, saw the sides meet in the 1996 World Cup final at Wembley. In the 1970 World Cup, it was West Germany that put an end to England’s campaign in extra time.

Germany knocked England out of the World Cup in 1990 and Euro 1996 on penalties in the semi final stages. In the Wembley clash 25 years, current manager Southgate famously missed a penalty that saw England crash out of the tournament they were hosting.

England crashed out of the World Cup 2010 to the Germans in a humiliating 4-1 defeat, the last time the sides met at a major tournament. 

But cautiously optimistic Mark said he was expecting to roar the Three Lions to victory in a ‘close game’ that could heal England’s tortured history in the fixture.

He added: ‘I think it’s going to be an extremely tough match which can go either way. But it’s going to be a special, special day. All I’ll say is that it’s coming home.’

A group of builders from Chesterfield, Derbyshire, cancelled their work plans at 8.30am this morning to head to the boozer in anticipation of the match.

England football fans Adam Cotton, 29 (left) and Anthony Brown, 28 (right) ahead of the England vs Germany game at the Big Tree, Greene King pub in Sheffield

England football fans Adam Cotton, 29 (left) and Anthony Brown, 28 (right) ahead of the England vs Germany game at the Big Tree, Greene King pub in Sheffield

England football fans Adam Cotton, 29 (left) and Anthony Brown, 28 (right) ahead of the England vs Germany game at the Big Tree, Greene King pub in Sheffield

England fans pile into a pub in Sheffield at 7am this morning ahead of today's match with Germany

England fans pile into a pub in Sheffield at 7am this morning ahead of today's match with Germany

England fans pile into a pub in Sheffield at 7am this morning ahead of today’s match with Germany 

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley with the vast majority being England fans. Some took to social media to share their preparations for the match

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley with the vast majority being England fans. Some took to social media to share their preparations for the match

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley with the vast majority being England fans. Some took to social media to share their preparations for the match

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley with the vast majority being England fans. Some took to social media to share their preparations for the match

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley with the vast majority being England fans. Some took to social media to share their preparations for the match

England fans across the country flocked to Wembley for the game - with millions set to watch at home or in a pub

England fans across the country flocked to Wembley for the game - with millions set to watch at home or in a pub

England fans across the country flocked to Wembley for the game - with millions set to watch at home or in a pub

England fans across the country flocked to Wembley for the game - with millions set to watch at home or in a pub

England fans across the country flocked to Wembley for the game – with millions set to watch at home or in a pub 

Others took to social media to reveal they will be taking a sick day to ensure they can watch the match, with some lucky supporters revealing they will even be allowed to finish early by sympathetic bosses - meaning they will join around 22 million English fans set to tune in

Others took to social media to reveal they will be taking a sick day to ensure they can watch the match, with some lucky supporters revealing they will even be allowed to finish early by sympathetic bosses - meaning they will join around 22 million English fans set to tune in

Others took to social media to reveal they will be taking a sick day to ensure they can watch the match, with some lucky supporters revealing they will even be allowed to finish early by sympathetic bosses – meaning they will join around 22 million English fans set to tune in

They sent a text to their boss to tell them they were detouring to the pub to watch the three lions instead of going to their scheduled job.

England v Germany 2021: The latest clash in one of international football’s most intense rivalries 

The historic fixture, one of international football’s most intense rivalries, saw the sides meet in the 1996 World Cup final at Wembley. In the 1970 World Cup, it was West Germany that put an end to England’s campaign in extra time. 

Germany knocked England out of the World Cup in 1990 and Euro 1996 on penalties in the semi final stages. In the Wembley clash 25 years, current manager Southgate famously missed a penalty that saw England crash out of the tournament they were hosting.

England crashed out of the World Cup 2010 to the Germans in a humiliating 4-1 defeat, the last time the sides met at a major tournament.  

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The festivities started at 10am when they sunk into their first pint of Stella Artois – and they expect to add shots of Jager to the fray as the day goes on.

Sean Foster, 40, said: ‘We texted the boss and we’ve yet to hear back but we couldn’t miss this. It was a spur of the moment thing but I think deep down we knew we’d be watching the match.

‘I’m feeling a bit nervous but mostly excited. It’s going to be 50/50.’

Chris Shaw, 40, who is at the pub with his daughter Allisia, 18, said there was no better reason to enjoy a day out after all the sacrifices made during the lockdown.

The builder said: ‘I’m happy we’ve decided to take the day off, it’s going to be worth it. These kinds of days don’t come around often and you don’t want to miss them. After Covid I think we deserve to have days out like this with pals, enjoying pints and being out.

‘If ever there was a reason to come out and enjoy life, this is it. We’ve all made so many sacrifices and I’m just glad to be here today. It’s going to be an unforgettable day.

‘But I’m a little worried about the state I will be in tomorrow. I’m excited about the match, there is so much history between the nations but I like our chances. It’s coming home.’ 

Daughter Allisia, also a construction worker, said she convinced her dad to get the day off work and urged England manager Gareth Southgate to ‘just go for it’.

She said: ‘I was buzzing to get the day off work, I was the one who told my dad we should do it. I instigated it a little bit. I’ve been drinking the VK blues and I plan on outdrinking everyone here.

‘I’m quite excited I think it’s going to be a fantastic day with an even better atmosphere – it’s what you live for. Coming out of lockdown, and being able to be out here feels like pure freedom.

‘I think it’s definitely coming home, and if I had a word of advice for Southgate, I’d tell him to just go for it.’

Rory Hibbert, 25, who was enjoying a pint of Carling, said there was ‘no chance in hell’ he’d miss a match against Germany.

Balconies and landings adorned with England flags at the Kirby housing estate in London

Balconies and landings adorned with England flags at the Kirby housing estate in London

Balconies and landings adorned with England flags at the Kirby housing estate in London

Fans across the country are getting into the spirit ahead of the England vs Germany match at 5pm today

Fans across the country are getting into the spirit ahead of the England vs Germany match at 5pm today

Fans across the country are getting into the spirit ahead of the England vs Germany match at 5pm today

More than 22 million people are expected to watch the game in pubs and in homes on Tuesday

More than 22 million people are expected to watch the game in pubs and in homes on Tuesday

More than 22 million people are expected to watch the game in pubs and in homes on Tuesday

Luckier fans shared how their bosses would be letting them finish early ahead of the match

Luckier fans shared how their bosses would be letting them finish early ahead of the match

Luckier fans shared how their bosses would be letting them finish early ahead of the match

The builder from Sheffield said: ‘I’m chuffed to bits to be here. There was no chance in hell I’d miss it. Anyone who is working today is completely mad. I think the match could go either way, but I’m excited. I’m enjoying my pints of Stella and I hope they keep coming.’

Anthony Brown, 28, said he will be so drunk tonight that while he believes football’s coming home, he won’t be able to make it home. The confident sales executive said he predicts England will hammer the Germans 5-0.

He said: ‘I had to swap my shifts on the last minute but I told my boss I had to have the day off. Many of the big teams are out now so I think our path to victory is looking good. I’ve started drinking at 10am, and all I know is that while football is coming home, I most definitely won’t be.

‘My girlfriend already told me I can’t come home if I’m in a state. But today is shaping up to be a brilliant day, full of drinks and football fans all enjoying themselves. Football is just incredible, it brings people together in a way that nothing else does. It’s magic.

‘I hope Southgate starts Grealish I think he’d provide an injection of flair and attacking quality.’ 

He added that the match was a chance for Southgate to get revenge who famously missed his penalty against the Germans at Euro 1996.

While his friend Adam Cotton, 29, said he told his boss that he was going to take the day off work so he could ‘get blasted’.

Adam, from Barnsley, said: ‘After the last match I told the gaffer I was going to take the next match off so I could get blasted. So here am I, first pint in, on my way to get absolutely blasted.

‘I think there’s a real buzz from everyone here because we fancy our chances. There’s nothing like this atmosphere. Many of the big teams have crashed out so I think we can do really well and go all the way. It’s coming home.

‘There’s nothing like enjoying a day like this in the beer garden, nothing at all. Supporting your country with other people who are proud of the boys. And after Covid, it just puts a smile on your face.’

Another said: ‘Joked about my boss all last week about how I was ‘gonna be ill’ on Tuesday with England playing, sure enough, I’m f***ing sick as a dog.’ 

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley for the match with England fans warned to stay vigilant as touts offer tickets for up to £10,000 online

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley for the match with England fans warned to stay vigilant as touts offer tickets for up to £10,000 online

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley for the match with England fans warned to stay vigilant as touts offer tickets for up to £10,000 online

Luckier fans shared how their bosses would be letting them finish early ahead of the match. 

One wrote: ‘When you think you have to work when England vs Germany is on but your boss lets you leave early.’

Another said: ‘As if my boss is letting us have an early finish for the England game.’

While a third added: ‘The Boss is letting us finish at 4pm today to get home in time for the England game! What a nice gesture.’

Pimlico Plumbers revealed that the match would be shown on screens for employees – with free drinks and snacks available from the canteen.  

Yesterday, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) said employers should talk to their staff and make arrangements for the 5pm kick-off.

One fan shared a photo of an email they’d received from their boss which showed a picture of England manager Gareth Southgate alongside the words: ‘You’re going home to watch it coming home!’

The message added that a 4pm finish had been authorised for all workers. 

However, other fans were not as lucky, forcing them to pull a sickie or come up with clever tactics to avoid missing the game. 

One person wrote: ‘Booking a vaccine at 3:30 on Tuesday to finish early at work for the England game.’

Another said: ‘England are playing Tuesday….that’s my sick day sorted.’

While a third added: ‘England-Germany. Taking another sick day and having two pints by noon.’ 

The TUC says flexible working has many benefits for companies such as cutting down on absenteeism and raising productivity.

It added that the rise in home working will mean many employees will already be at home.

Companies could also arrange for the Euros game to be shown somewhere on the premises where appropriate, the TUC has suggested.

Other suggestions include companies allowing staff to start or finish work early or late to allow them to work round the game. 

TUC General Secretary, and England and Arsenal supporter, Frances O’Grady said: ‘Millions of workers around the UK will want to cheer on their national teams in Euro 2020 – especially after the tournament was postponed last year.

‘Bosses should talk to their staff and try and let people who want to watch the games do so, either at work or at home – and then claim back their time afterwards. 

Meanwhile, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) hopes eight million pints will be sold today, with 5.25 million of those served during the last 16 fixture between the Three Lions and Germany

Meanwhile, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) hopes eight million pints will be sold today, with 5.25 million of those served during the last 16 fixture between the Three Lions and Germany

Meanwhile, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) hopes eight million pints will be sold today, with 5.25 million of those served during the last 16 fixture between the Three Lions and Germany

‘Whether it’s about major sporting events like Euro 2020, attending a medical appointment or picking up the kids from school, allowing people more flexibility in how and when they do their work makes them happier. It cuts absenteeism and raises productivity.’

Around 45,000 fans will be allowed into Wembley for the match with England fans warned to stay vigilant as touts offer tickets for up to £10,000 online. 

Websites viewed by MailOnline are flogging tickets for the match for as high as £3,000, though it was reported in the Times that some were going for as much as £10,000, with campaigners urging supporters to ‘avoid them like the plague’. 

Official tickets were initially allocated in a ballot, with those who were successful but unable to attend the game urged to sell their seats at the price they paid and to registered friends via the UEFA app.

But the newspaper claims some supporters are instead making a huge profit by advertising their tickets on secondary sites, accepting inflated payments and then transferring the electronic tickets to buyers by registering them as friends.

The sites selling pricey seats seen by MailOnline include LiveFootballTickets, which is offering tickets from £693.50 to £3,000 – plus a hefty £900 ‘service fee’.

Another site, Seatsnet, has tickets going for as much as £1,100, while Ticombo charges up to £1,759. 

Meanwhile, the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) hopes eight million pints will be sold today, with 5.25 million of those served during the last 16 fixture between the Three Lions and Germany.

The ongoing limitations mean beer sales will be 1.3 million pints lower during England’s match than if it was shown in pubs without restrictions, the BBPA estimates. 

Websites viewed by MailOnline are flogging tickets for the match for as high as £3,000, though it was reported in the Times that some were going for as much as £10,000, with campaigners urging supporters to 'avoid them like the plague'

Websites viewed by MailOnline are flogging tickets for the match for as high as £3,000, though it was reported in the Times that some were going for as much as £10,000, with campaigners urging supporters to 'avoid them like the plague'

Websites viewed by MailOnline are flogging tickets for the match for as high as £3,000, though it was reported in the Times that some were going for as much as £10,000, with campaigners urging supporters to ‘avoid them like the plague’

The trade body claimed this would result in more than £5 million revenue lost to pubs in England during the game.

It said some of its members had reported beer sales were lower than hoped for during the Euro 2020 tournament so far.

According to a BBPA survey of 1,000 pub-goers at the end of May, 85 per cent of pub-visiting football fans believe current Covid-19 restrictions will negatively impact their experience of watching Euro 2020 at pubs this summer.

Half said they would be more likely to watch games at a pub if all restrictions were lifted.

Emma McClarkin, BBPA chief executive, said: ‘No matter the occasion, England versus Germany is always a big match.’

She added: ‘We know many pubs haven’t experienced the boost to their trade which they’d hoped for from the Euros. No standing and limits on group sizes, as well as social distancing, are severely reducing the number of people who can enjoy the Euros at the pub.

‘With that said, there is still no better place to watch live sport on the telly than at the pub. I implore Three Lions fans to support England and the pub by cheering on the Three Lions at their local.

‘To secure our pubs for future tournaments and national occasions like the Euros, there can be no further delays to the lifting of restrictions.

‘On July 19 all restrictions on pubs must be lifted. We are counting down the days to freedom for our pubs.’

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