When was the last time England won an international tournament?

Another final for the England national football team. Another year of hurt. This time they faced Spain in the Euro 24 finale. And once again they fell short, losing 2-1. Three years ago it was against Italy in Euro 2020, when they lost on penalties. International glory has been sought by the English, a proud footballing nation, but the history books show a path marked mainly by moments of heartbreak. In fact, the last time the Three Lions clinched a major international trophy was way, way back, on July 30, 1966, in their own backyard at Wembley Stadium.

But wait! Yes, this article is focused on the men’s national team but it would be remiss of me not to remind you of the successes of the English women. The Lionesses won their equivalent version of the Euros in 2022, followed that up by winning the intercontinental Finalissima in 2023. They also finished second (2023) and third (2015) in the Women’s World Cup.

OK, back to the men, who will still be dreaming of “Football coming home.”

That England World Cup win of 1966

In a historic final match against West Germany during the 1966 FIFA World Cup, England emerged victorious with a 4-2 win after extra time. Geoff Hurst became a national hero with his hat-trick, including a controversial goal that is still debated to this day (it definitely wasn’t!). Bobby Moore, the captain of the team, lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy, marking England’s first and only World Cup, or international trophy triumph to date.

Since that unforgettable day, England has come close on several occasions, reaching the semi-finals of major tournaments such as the 1990 World Cup and the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Despite the passionate support and talented squads over the years, including recent generations featuring stars like Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling, the elusive second major trophy continues to evade them.

Now the likes of Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Jordan Pickford will have to wait till the World Cup in 2026...