[Saba Sports News] British media reported that more than 80% of England fans have made rational rather than emotional predictions that the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign this time will end in disappointment. Most supporters believe the side stands little chance of recreating their European Championship glory from two years ago, when they narrowly lost to Spain in the final. Thirty percent of fans think the quarter-finals will be their furthest run, while 27% expect them to reach the final. Only 16% are confident they can lift the trophy. Aside from England, France is the fans’ top pick to win the tournament at 16%, followed by Spain on 13% and Brazil at 10%. England fans are not the only ones making level-headed forecasts: nearly one in ten Scottish supporters (9%) predicted a title triumph for their bitter rivals England. The survey also found that England fans view the 2020 and 2024 European Championships as the nation’s best opportunities to claim a major international trophy.
The editor believes that while most fans hope their national team can surge forward all the way, many tend to think rationally rather than emotionally when it comes to predicting match results or placing bets.