LATE SCRAMBLE FOR THREE LIONS TICKETS

THREE Lions fans are flocking to the World Cup at the 11th hour buoyed by their team’s fantastic form.

Victories over fellow finalists Costa Rica and Nigeria in friendly matches have triggered a wave of optimism about England’s chances.

Organisers Fifa revealed the number of tickets bought by England fans had rocketed more than 100% in the past month.

Three Lions supporters have now snapped up 32,362 tickets for the tournament which kicks off in Russia on Thursday.

That puts England “in the top 10 countries” for seat purchases.

Prices

Some hotel owners in host cities have ramped up prices 10-fold to cash in on World Cup demand.

But travel experts say that is not stopping fans. One said: “There has been a late upsurge.

“Recent performances of the team appear to have stimulated interest.’’

England are undefeated in 10 matches and Marcus Rashford helped them to a 2-0 win over Costa Rica at Elland Road, Leeds, on Thursday with a 25-yard wonder goal that delighted fans. A Fifa spokesman WONDER GOAL: Marcus said that due to the “overwhelming interest” officials were making more tickets available.

More than 100,000 which had been reserved for Fifa officials will now go on sale to fans.