Tension all around EnglandWorld Cup semi-final against Argentina could be felt thousands of miles from home, but inside Pickford family camp, its gathering had a much simpler message.
Megan Pickford shared a touching video of the three children she has with the England goalkeeper Jordan Pickfordwhich shows Arlo, Ostara and Misty wearing matching football jerseys with “Daddy” written on the back.
Eberechi Eze drives England teammate Kobby Maina to school during a skills competition
“Today’s Mood, Go Daddy” Megan wrote as the children jumped in a circle and cheered their father’s name repeatedly.
It was a warm family moment before a huge pressure event.
England arrived in Atlanta seeking a place in the World Cup final after beating Norway 2-1 in extra time as the defending champions. Argentina stood between the Three Lions and their first appearance in the tournament since 1966.
Megan Pickford followed England’s every move.
MeganThe 30-year-old was one of the most visible members of England’s traveling support throughout the tournament in the United States.
She and Jordan were childhood sweethearts and had been together since high school.
Their relationship spans the goalkeeper’s career growth period Sunderlandacademy to Everton and England No. 1 jersey with Megan regularly present at decisive moments in his international career.
Her trip to the World Championships was not without complications. The airline temporarily lost her suitcase after she arrived in the United States, leaving the carefully packed wardrobe she had prepared for England matches out of reach.
The luggage was eventually returned ahead of the group stage meeting with Ghana. Megan celebrated its arrival by sharing a video of herself hugging the suitcase and joked that it would never leave her sight again.
She has since been able to join the players’ families in the stands, wearing English-style clothing and sharing memories of the trip with her children.
England’s families prepare for the big night
Megan was not the only partner supporting the team on its way to the final four.
Captain Harry Kanewife, Kate Kaneattended matches wearing his England team kit while Ptolemy Bensonbride Bukayo Sakahas combined updated football shirts with her own streetwear style.
Ellie Watkinswife Ollie WatkinsAnd Ashlyn Castrogirlfriend Jude Bellinghamwere also part of a traveling party supporting England throughout the United States.
On Wednesday, however, their focus was on the field. Pickford facing the problem of providing assistance England contain Argentina attack led by Lionel Messi, and the possibility of another career-defining penalty shootout is never far away.
The goalkeeper became one of EnglandHe was the most reliable player in tournaments, but his most enthusiastic supporters were not interested in tactics or history.
Wearing “Daddy” shirts and chanting his name, PickfordThe children have already given their family team speech.