Feeling gutted? It's completely normal to feel that way after England's World Cup exit. But while it's okay to wallow in the pain for a while, it's important to remember that this is just one game in a long and storied history of English football. So, how can we cope with the disappointment and move forward? Let's take a look at some strategies for dealing with the sting of defeat, and why they matter.
Recognizing the Sting
First, it's crucial to acknowledge the pain. Football losses can be especially painful because we identify so strongly with the national team. It's not just about the players on the pitch; it's about the entire nation coming together in support. For Oli Portlock, an England loss feels like a national funeral, a big grey cloud over the country. This emotional connection is what makes the defeat so hard to take.
Dr. Martha Newson from the University of Greenwich explains that football losses can cause more of a sting than in other sports. This is because we talk about the national team as if it were us out there, and the collective disappointment can be overwhelming. The emotional dip after a loss typically fades within a couple of hours, so it's important to ride it out and tell yourself it's just part of the process.
Focusing on the Wins
Instead of dwelling on the loss, it's helpful to reflect on the great memories created throughout the tournament. Oli suggests listening to music that reminds you of the successes, like Wonderwall for this year or Sweet Caroline for Euro 2020. By focusing on the positive moments, you can lift your spirits and remind yourself of the joy that football brings.
Jayne Howells, a 54-year-old England fan, agrees that it's important to acknowledge the players' efforts. She cautions against trying to find mistakes or ascribe blame in anger, as this can undermine the team's morale. Instead, she suggests saying that the players did really well, which can help make a stronger team.
Talking it Out
The first few hours after the loss will be the worst, but it's crucial to avoid taking your disappointment out on others. Dr. David Crepaz-Keay advises fans to talk about the loss, rant about it, and get through it quickly with the right people. Sharing your disappointment with friends or family can help dissipate the frustration and remind you that you're not alone in your feelings.
Oli agrees that talking with mates down the pub can help you remember that you're on the same page with the sting. While it can evoke disappointment, it helps to get it out of your system and move forward.
Sing, Walk the Dog, Run
If you find yourself reaching for the crisps or cookies after a loss, it's not all down to a lack of willpower. Dr. Newson explains that fans consume more calories after a loss, probably due to an unconscious evolutionary desire to protect ourselves after losing. Everyone has different ways of coping, but the important thing is to trust your instincts and find what works best for you.
Dr. Crepaz-Keay suggests getting outside and being active, even if that means walking and singing on your way home from a match to expend some energy. For Andy Taylor, getting back to his normal routine helps, including walking the dog and going for a run, as well as reflecting on the positives.
Remember, There's Always Next Time
Football heartache can take days or even weeks to get over, but it's important to remember that football isn't life or death. Andy points out that his first tournament, Euro 1996, was devastating, but he could always look forward to another game. England football will always be there, and even if they don't win, he has amazing memories to cling to.
In the end, while it's okay to feel gutted after England's World Cup defeat, it's important to remember that this is just one game in a long and storied history of English football. By recognizing the sting, focusing on the wins, talking it out, being active, and remembering that there's always next time, we can cope with the disappointment and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.
