WHEN THE THREE LIONS ROARED

Italia ‘90 saw England’s best-ever performance at a World Cup on foreign soil. We remember the finest moments...

PLATTS WONDER GOAL

Draws against Ireland and Holland, followed by a win against Egypt in the group stages saw England progress to the last 16, where they faced Belgium. The match appeared to be heading for a penalty shoot-out when substitute David Platt produced a sublime volley in the last minute of extra time to send a nation wild with excitement and the team into the quarter final.

GAZZA’S TEARS

England’s youngest player broke down after a costly booking during the semi-final against West Germany. The 98th minute yellow card meant he would miss the final if England got through, causing him to weep as the game continued. The team crashed out on penalties and Gazza’s tears became one of Italia ‘90’s defining images.

HEROES RETURN

Despite the heartbreaking semi-final defeat, Bobby Robson’s team gained hero status back home. They had got closer to winning the World Cup than any other England side on foreign soil before, or since. They were given a rousing reception when they returned home, with 300,000 fans gathering in Luton to cheer the team’s open-top bus through the streets.