It was probably a lot closer than many imagined last night, but the good news is that England are into the World Cup quarter finals. A penalty shootout victory over Colombia put them through, and overall the team showed great heart and character to get by the South Americans. Up next is a game against Sweden, which will take place on Saturday afternoon at 3pm.

For most of the game, England were in control and the Colombians were trying to do all they could to put their opponents off their game. From complaints to the referee, to bad challenges and diving on the floor, Colombia did all they could, but it simply wouldn’t work. From the moment England scored and took the lead through Harry Kane, Colombia began to play football, and looked a much better outfit. They clearly went into the game with a plan to disrupt, but had they concentrated on playing their own game, we could have seen a different outcome.

The Three Lions passed two important tests last night, vital if this young team is to succeed at the World Cup

1. They Won a Penalty Shootout

We don’t know if England will face penalties again at any point in this World Cup, but should they have to do that then the experience from last night will serve them well. Not only did they win a penalty shootout, but they did so from behind, and showed character. There was a lot to like about how England approached the penalty shootout, and when things didn’t look good half way through, they kept calm and found a way to come back.

2. They Bounced Back from a Huge Goal against Them

When England conceded a goal in the 93rd minute of the game, it was a huge blow to them. After the goal and during the first part of extra time they did struggle a little, but eventually they found a way back which showed great character. England will face other tough times during the World Cup, whether it is a goal or something else and they have to cope with those times. Showing character and bouncing back is exactly what England need to do, and something they did to great effect last night, to come back and win the game on penalties.

Sweden up Next for England

Interest rose greatly in England when they were drawn on the “easier” side of the World Cup draw after finishing second in their group. However, the benefit of that draw is there for all to see, and England face another winnable game on Saturday when they take on Sweden.

The Swedes are at this stage after beating Switzerland, but struggle to create a lot of chances when they play, and there is nothing they have that should make England fear them. A win for the Three Lions and they are in the semi finals, one step away from a chance to lift the World Cup trophy. This young team believes, and so do the fans up and down the country.

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