England is gripped by World Cup fever as fans prepare for a highly anticipated semi-final clash against defending champions Argentina, with hopes high that the Three Lions can move one step closer to ending their decades-long wait for football's biggest prize.
England flags adorned buildings across London on Wednesday, with Downing Street and pubs draped in the national colours as supporters geared up for the heavyweight encounter between two of football's most successful nations.
A victory would send England into the World Cup final and keep alive their dream of winning the tournament for the first time since lifting the trophy in 1966.
Among the optimistic supporters was 19-year-old Kit Zerafen, who believes England has what it takes to overcome Argentina.
"I think we bring it home, to be honest. It'll be a hard start, but as long as we get Bellingham on the ball, that's all that matters," he said.
England's journey to the semi-finals has been anything but straightforward. Thomas Tuchel's side battled through difficult conditions and overcame a red card to defeat Mexico before edging Norway 2-1 after extra time in Miami to secure a place in the last four.
Argentina has also endured a demanding campaign on its way to the semi-finals. The defending champions defeated Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time, staged a dramatic comeback from two goals down in the closing stages to beat Egypt 3-2, and then overcame Switzerland 3-1 after extra time.
Much of Argentina's hopes once again rest on veteran captain Lionel Messi. At 39, the forward remains the heartbeat of the team and has scored eight goals during the tournament despite acknowledging the physical toll of Argentina's gruelling run.
England will look to star midfielder Jude Bellingham to lead the charge as they attempt to contain Messi and book their place in the World Cup final in what promises to be one of the tournament's biggest matches.