Following England's defeat in the World Cup, fans and experts are offering advice on how to process the disappointment. The emotional toll of a significant loss can be substantial, leading some to feel "gutted."
One approach recommended by Oli, an England supporter who followed the team from Preston to the US, is to focus on positive memories created throughout the tournament. Fans might find solace in recalling key moments, such as Harry Kane's crucial goals or Jude Bellingham's rapid scoring against Mexico, which helped secure a place in the quarter-finals. Even challenging experiences, like staying up for a late kick-off during severe storms or gathering in crowded pubs during a heatwave, can become part of the shared narrative.
Oli also suggests listening to music that evokes feelings of success, citing "Wonderwall" for the current tournament and "Sweet Caroline" from Euro 2020, as a way to counteract feelings of disappointment.
Jayne Howells, a 54-year-old England fan, echoed the sentiment of focusing on the positive. She cautioned against dwelling on mistakes or assigning blame in moments of anger. "A lot of these players… they're going to be gutted as well. It's not about knocking them down, but saying they actually did really well. That's how you make a stronger team," she stated.
Another piece of advice from Crepaz-Keay encourages fans to "see the funny side where you can" and to remember the aspects of the tournament that went well. This perspective aims to shift focus from the final outcome to the overall journey and positive experiences.
