A few days after their thrilling 2-1 comeback victory against Slovakia in the Round of 16 of EURO 2024, the England national team received a morale boost from the famous singer Ed Sheeran.

Facing Slovakia, who is ranked 40 places below them in the world standings, coach Gareth Southgate’s squad encountered significant challenges. Not only did they struggle offensively, but the defense of the “Three Lions” also had to withstand sharp counter-attacks from Slovakia on multiple occasions. Ivan Schranz scored against England in the 25th minute, and it took a brilliant moment from Jude Bellingham for the team to equalize at 1-1 in the 90+5 minute. Capitalizing on their newfound momentum, captain Harry Kane netted a second goal for England, sealing the comeback victory.

England’s lackluster performance continues to be a hot topic of discussion. Critics have pointed to Southgate’s conservative approach in player selection and tactical changes. The English media predicts that even if they reach the quarter-finals, it will be difficult for Southgate’s squad to advance further without improving their gameplay.

Under pressure, Southgate granted the players a break from training. When they arrived at the Blankenhain training ground, they were surprised to find Ed Sheeran waiting for them. Instead of starting practice, the players settled onto sofas and sang along with Sheeran’s music. Most of the players enjoyed this special performance, fully engrossed in the moment.

Not stopping there, after Sheeran’s performance, Southgate also arranged for the players to meet with their families. The 53-year-old coach shared that this was a special psychological therapy designed for the players, helping them feel relaxed before their quarter-final match against Switzerland on July 6.

This isn’t the first time Ed Sheeran has been spotted visiting the players. During the match between England and Switzerland, cameras quickly captured him in the stands of Veltins-Arena. Sheeran is not only known for his musical talent but also has a special passion for football. He frequently supports the England national team as well as his beloved Ipswich Town.

The British newspaper Telegraph remarked, “Ed Sheeran’s special appearance at the heart of the England team is one of the efforts by coach Southgate and his staff to make the players’ journey in the tournament as enjoyable as possible. They have been away from home for nearly a month, and football is their only joy.”

At the 2018 World Cup, Robbie Williams performed for the players, and they made it to the semi-finals. With Ed Sheeran’s presence this time, England hopes to replicate their achievement of reaching the final of EURO 2020, with aspirations of going even further.

However, the Opta supercomputer has turned against the England team. After a series of disappointing performances, it predicts that England is now only the second favorite to win EURO 2024, with a 19.9% chance. Spain has taken the lead with a 20.03% chance, while host nation Germany, following their victory over Denmark, is now the third favorite at 19.22%.