Feeling gutted? Five ways to cope with England's World Cup defeat
Following England's World Cup semi-final loss, experts offer advice on how fans can cope with the emotional disappointment of defeat. The article suggests that the intensity of fan reaction is a normal part of sports culture.
Why it matters
It explores the psychological impact of sports fandom and provides practical mental health tips for managing collective disappointment.
Image source, GettyImages Image caption, Football heartache can take days or even weeks to get over, say fans
England are out of the World Cup after Argentina's dramatic comeback to beat them 2-1 in the semi-finals.
Harry Kane and the team took the lead early in the second half in Atlanta, but could not hang on.
As fans reel from the painful defeat, here are some tips for coping with the dashed hopes of a place in the final.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Football fans often feel the pain of a loss more acutely than the delight of a win
Losing at football can cause more of a sting than in other sports, says Dr Martha Newson from the University of Greenwich.
"Few people are going to cry and get upset about whoever loses Wimbledon," explains the behavioural scientist.
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