By: Maggie Z

Despite finishing top of their bracket on Thursday, June 25, in the 2024 European Cup, England’s men’s team was booed off the pitch by fans. The fans were apparently frustrated after the game ended, making the air heavy with tension.

On Thursday, England played Slovenia in both of their last games before the knockout round. The game ended in a goalless draw between the two teams. England’s men’s team, also called the Three Lions, were cheerful over the 0-0 draw, which put them at the top of their bracket. However, their fans were not in such a great mood. Various objects were thrown at the players when they headed over to thank their fans.

“England’s tepid display saw fans vent their frustration when the players headed over to thank them for their support,” talkSPORT reported.

This showing led to the UEFA, or Union of European Football Associations, issuing fans a €10,000 (about $11,000) fine. Even though England players felt under-appreciated for their work in a relatively good match, they (fortunately) did not retaliate immediately.

Team manager Gareth Southgate told DOGOnews that he is “very proud of the players” for restraining themselves after their fans’ disappointed responses.

On the bright side, since England finished first in their bracket with the draw, they can’t play Spain, Germany, France, or Portugal until the final. Instead, they will face one of the four best third-placed teams from the other side of the bracket to go to the last 16.