FIFA WC 2026: How Oasis' 1995 classic 'Wonderwall' became England's unofficial anthem
Kansas City, July 8
From the stands to the dressing room, England's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign has found an unlikely hero, one that was never meant to be part of the plan.
As the "Three Lions" march into the WC 2026 quarter-finals on Saturday, July 11, Oasis' iconic 1995 hit 'Wonderwall' seems to have emerged as the soundtrack of a campaign that has brought players and fans closer than ever. 'Wonderwall' has become the team's unofficial anthem, with thousands of fans singing it in unison after matches.
Before the tournament began, the Football Association had submitted several songs to FIFA for matchday celebrations, including 'Sweet Caroline,' which became closely associated with Gareth Southgate's reign. However, under new manager Thomas Tuchel, a different tune has struck a chord. 'Wonderwall' was first played after England's thrilling 4-2 victory over Croatia in the tournament opener at Dallas Stadium, where fans sang every word with such passion that they nearly drowned out the stadium speakers.
That spontaneous singalong became a regular post-match fixture in no time. With every victory, the song, that released alomst three decades ago, has echoed around stadiums, which has also strengthened the bond between the squad and its supporters. The connection was especially evident after England's hard-fought win over Mexico, when players and fans once again united in song following an intense defensive display.
England captain Harry Kane admitted that the now-famous 'Wonderwall' moment remains one of his favourite memories of the tournament. Reflecting on the special "connection with the fans," Kane said the emotional celebration meant just as much as the result itself.
"We're not getting carried away, but just that emotional connection with the fans. We know how much it means to them," he told the Lions' Den podcast.
"We have that connection right now, but just that moment, singing 'Wonderwall' in the stadium, was a really special moment," he added.
The song's popularity as England's unofficial World Cup anthem has also thrilled Oasis, whose 1995 classic has found a new generation of football supporters singing along.
Interestingly, this isn't the first time 'Wonderwall' has been linked with a major sporting occasion. Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher had also performed the song with his former band Beady Eye during the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an American living in India, I find this crossover fascinating. 'Wonderwall' is a classic, but seeing it adopted by English football fans at a World Cup in the US is something else. The cross-cultural energy is just incredible. Hope it brings them luck in the quarter-finals!
I have to say, while I appreciate the nostalgia, I think the FA should have stuck with 'Sweet Caroline'. That song had more build-up and emotional weight for English football. 'Wonderwall' feels a bit too generic, no? But if the fans love it, who am I to judge? 🤷♀️
Absolutely love this! I'm from England and have been following the team since Euro 2020. This connection with the fans is what football is all about. The fact that they're singing a 90s anthem in 2026 just shows how timeless great music is. Good luck to the Three Lions from a fan in Delhi! 🦁
I must admit, this is a refreshing change from all the "Toxic" and "Despacito" anthems we hear at tournaments. Oasis brings a sense of raw, authentic Britishness to the team. Though I wish they'd play some Indian music too at these games—imagine 'Vande Mataram' or 'Bole Chudiyan' echoing in a US stadium! 🇮🇳😄
Honestly, this story warms my heart. The way it started spontaneously after the Croatia game
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.