Keir Starmer, the United Kingdom's Prime Minister, faced online ridicule after celebrating England's 2-1 victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the World Cup. Starmer posted, "It might actually be coming home," accompanied by an England flag, a sentiment typically associated with national sporting success.
However, his critics quickly turned the popular phrase against him, with many online users highlighting his imminent departure from Downing Street. "It's coming home, and you are going home - BYE!" one user commented, echoing sentiments that Starmer's post was a "gift to his critics." Other remarks suggested that "it" coming home referred to his resignation, with one user writing, "If 'it' is your P45 then yes, you are correct."
This reaction came shortly after Starmer was reportedly forced to resign. The footballing success was seen by some as an attempt to regain public affection, but it was met with skepticism. Some critics questioned Starmer's past perceived lack of enthusiasm for English symbols, with one user stating, "You can shut up you have not even put the England flag up in Downing St, every other PM have [sic] been proud to hang the English flag from every window."
Others pointed to the team's unconvincing performance, noting that England "just barely won against Congo." The match saw England concede early, but captain Harry Kane scored two late goals to secure the win and advance England to the Round of 16. Oliver Holt, Chief Sports Writer for the Daily Mail, described Kane as a "phenomenon" whose two goals in 11 minutes rescued England from a potential defeat.
Starmer's post also drew criticism in the context of his recent unveiling of the Defence Investment Plan, which was reportedly criticized for insufficient funding. One user linked his perceived "delusion" about football to his handling of the defense plan.