How Football (Nearly) Came Home

In the summer of 2018, England faced an unprecedented heatwave as the national football team embarked on an unexpectedly thrilling journey through the World Cup in Russia. With low expectations following a disappointing performance in the previous Euros, the revamped team captured the public's imagination with a series of stunning victories and unexpected camaraderie. Football writer Barney Ronay chronicles this remarkable tournament, detailing the atmosphere, the challenges, and the memorable moments that transformed a beleaguered squad into a symbol of hope and national pride, all set against a backdrop of political turmoil and fervent anticipation.