'Wonderwall,' the World Cup's sentimental anthem for England's team and fans

Three decades after its release, Oasis's 'Wonderwall' has unexpectedly become the anthem for England's national football team and its fans during the 2026 World Cup. The song has united players and supporters, echoing from the stadium to pubs across the nation.

After a nail-biting 2-1 victory against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the round of 16, the iconic track filled the stadium speakers in Atlanta. England's players, including captain Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, joined in singing the lyrics, linking arms and facing their cheering fans. This moment of communion was mirrored in pubs throughout England, where fans watched the match.

Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher fueled the fervor on social media, calling 'Wonderwall' "the best song ever written." With England seeking its first major international football title in 60 years, having lost two consecutive European Championship finals, the nation has clung to the song's hopeful lyrics. "Today's the day we're gonna make it happen," the song begins, with its chorus offering, "And after all, you're my wonderwall."

Released in 1995, 'Wonderwall' is one of Oasis's biggest hits, boasting over 2.85 billion streams on Spotify. Ironically, the song, which Noel Gallagher described as being about an "imaginary friend who's gonna save you from yourself," never topped the UK charts, peaking at number two. It has recently re-entered the UK charts at number 32, boosted by the World Cup. The song has also navigated a complex cultural path, evolving from a pop culture internet meme, often associated with amateur guitarists, to a symbol of national hope.