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Today is going to be the day they turn it back… Harry Kane, hopefully. England’s soundtrack to this summer’s World Cup, Oasis hit Wonderland, may mean many different things to many. In this tournament, it has been consolidated. A moment shared between players and fans.
The sight of Kane and company belting out the lyrics in the England-clad stands in Atlanta was worth watching, not least because it meant England had won a game in which they had trailed for 68 grueling minutes.
Labored and lethargic though the performance may have been, Thomas Tuchel’s side prevailed.
Play, DJ hits.
How did this iconic song of the 90s make us all so nostalgic? Well, it might have something to do with the fact that England has been trying to bring football back home since 1966. Sixty years of injury and all that. And it feels good grounded in the abstract concept of a wonder wall.
England players join fans for the presentation of the Wonderwall
It brings feelings, connections and emotions. As Liam Gallagher himself has so eloquently said: Keep the Bible vibrating.
“It was one of my favorite moments in an England shirt,” captain Kane said in a clip. den of lions Last week’s podcast reflected on the first singalong after a thrilling group-stage win over Croatia. “Just that emotional connection with the fans, we know how important that is to them.”
A repeat presentation followed after defeating DR Congo and the sentiment looked even stronger. A song about hopes, dreams and saviors. England rescue Ken, “YEEEEEEES!” off at
Goosebumps.
England players, led by captain Harry Kane, celebrate in front of fans after defeating Croatia
Of course, an added bonus to this quintessentially British take on music is Neil Diamond’s phasing out of Sweet Caroline, which only represents a worn, tired version of a companion. It lost its influence somewhere in the Gareth Southgate era, thankfully never to be found again.
No matter, Wonderwall is the antidote.
In a recent interview, Dr the sunThe track’s writer Noel Gallagher officially handed over custody: “Wonderwall belongs to the people, and it became a magical moment between fans and players,” he said. All concerned with England’s cause will expect to hear it on repeat until July 19 – and for weeks after!
Before that, a tough trip awaits the Estadio Azteca. Mexico is far away. A proper trip hazard, and Tuchel has problems to solve. How can England take a lot of pressure off Kane and encourage others to contribute more creativity and goals? Who fills the right-back problem position? Which wide pair is most effective?
Wonderwall was booed by England fans after they beat DR Congo in Atlanta
There is no easy answer. But at least the backing track sounds. World Cup fever needs a little help, as the tournament being played thousands of miles away is sometimes inaccessible to the average fan. Wonderwall, however, seems to have a unique way of galvanizing.
Those who stumped up the money (myself included) to attend one of Oasis’ comeback gigs last year will witness its power firsthand. A sudden urge to hug a partner or complete stranger. Both are acceptable responses. The moment carries you almost involuntarily.
Now, England’s knockout campaign is rock and rolling (sorry!), and the excitement will no doubt kick into gear. Plans will already be in place for how Mexico vs England will look in the early hours of Monday morning. Elaborate excuses for bosses at work and teachers at prepared schools…
But, if you need some extra stimulation, try listening to the anthemic sounds of Oasis. For most of the British population, this will conjure up a memory. Hopefully this summer, for England, it will help inspire the moment.
