England supporters undertook widespread celebrations after the national team’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in the World Cup, sparking a significant increase in alcohol consumption estimated at £500 million across the Atlantic. The festivities extended from the United Kingdom to the United States, where fans gathered at prominent football bars to mark the occasion.
At Ye Olde King’s Head in Santa Monica, California, a venue recognized among the top football bars worldwide, supporters remained engaged late into the night, singing the traditional England anthem "Three Lions." James Elliott, an IT worker aged 27, described the atmosphere as unprecedented, while accountant Harry White, 29, expressed confidence in England’s prospects, asserting that “It’s coming home and no one can stop it.”
Meanwhile, in Dallas, Texas, the Londoner Pub experienced intense fan celebrations that led to multiple closures. Following an initial shutdown prompted by patrons consuming approximately 5,000 pints, the venue was forced to close again during a subsequent watch party after a fire marshal intervened due to concerns over crowd behavior.
Fans have also been adjusting their schedules to accommodate match timings, with many planning “tactical naps” and requesting annual leave to maximize their viewing opportunities. A recent poll indicated that 73% of supporters were willing to stay up later than usual for matches and that 10% intended to remain awake throughout the night.
Sleep consultant James Wilson, who advises professional footballers, emphasized the importance of balancing enthusiasm with well-being. He recommended that fans consider aligning game schedules with their natural sleep patterns, work commitments, and family responsibilities to avoid subsequent fatigue. “The goal is finding a balance that lets you enjoy the football without paying for it the next day,” Wilson stated.
Andy Rhodes of the polling organization Lenovo noted that fans in the UK especially would need to plan carefully for late kick-offs, using strategies such as tactical napping and negotiating family routines to effectively manage their time during the tournament.
