Boris Johnson hails England ‘heroes’ after penalty heartbreak in Euro 2020 final
The Prime Minister told England they had “played like heroes” after they fell to an agonising penalty shootout loss to Italy in the final of Euro 2020.
England got off to a dream start in Sunday’s Wembley showpiece as Luke Shaw put them ahead in the second minute, but Leonardo Bonucci’s second-half equaliser ensured the game went to extra time and, ultimately, a shootout which Italy won 3-2.
Boris Johnson, who watched from the stands at England’s national stadium, tweeted: “That was a heartbreaking result to end #Euro2020 but Gareth Southgate and his @England squad played like heroes.
“They have done the nation proud and deserve great credit”
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer sent his commiserations to a team that demonstrates “the very best of our country”.
He tweeted: “Heartbreaking. On and off the pitch, this team is the very best of our country.
“They’ve done us proud.”
London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who was present at Wembley for the final, tweeted: “To @England: thank you. You have inspired and united our nation both on and off the pitch at every turn.
“We could not be any prouder of what you have achieved. We still believe. #England”
Foreign secretary Dominic Raab tweeted: “Congratulations #ITA , but hugely proud of Gareth Southgate’s #ENG team in these championships.”
Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey wrote: “Amazing team, amazing tournament, very proud”
Culture secretary Oliver Dowden thanked the England team for their achievements in the tournament.
He tweeted: “Wasn’t meant to be but this England team should hold their heads high. You did us proud and raised the nation’s spirits throughout the tournament.
“Thank you.”
And the Duke of Cambridge, who watched with son Prince George at Wembley, tweeted: “Heartbreaking. Congratulations @azzurri on a great victory.
“@England, you’ve all come so far, but sadly this time it wasn’t our day.
“You can all hold your heads high, and be so proud of yourselves — I know there’s more to come.”