Sadly, it just wasnt meant to be for England at the 2018 World Cup.
Despite a valiant effort, the team will come home without the Jules Rimet trophy after losing the semi final 2-1 to Croatia.
And while defeat is a huge disappointment, many people have marked the occasion by celebrating the historic showing by Gareth Southgates team.
To everyone who supported us.
To everyone who believed this time was different.
To everyone who wasn't afraid to dream.
To everyone who knows this is only the beginning.
Thank you. We hope we made you proud. #threelions pic.twitter.com/jH8lYMB2E0
— England (@England) July 11, 2018
Prince William, the president of the FA, led the words of thanks in a statement posted on Twitter.
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He said: I know how disappointed England must feel right now but I couldnt be more proud of this team and you should hold your heads high.
This is why you should wear a helmet on a bike
Youve had an incredible World Cup, made history, and gave us fans something to believe in. We know there is more to come from this England team.
Prime Minister Theresa May echoed his comments, saying the team had made the country proud, and looked forward to the third place play-off against Belgium on Saturday.
She said: Wasnt to be this time but its been a great journey thats made the country proud. Well be flying the flag on Saturday.
I know how disappointed @england must feel right now but I couldnt be more proud of this team and you should hold your heads high. Youve had an incredible #WorldCup, made history, and gave us fans something to believe in. We know there is more to come from this @england team. W
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) July 11, 2018
Wasn't to be this time but it's been a great journey that's made the country proud. We'll be flying the flag on Saturday.
#ThreeLions #CROENG
— Theresa May (@theresa_may) July 11, 2018
Others looked to the future, with BBC journalist Jeremy Vine tweeting: On the upside, Gareth Southgate is now free to be prime minister.
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Some fans have even called for the manager to be knighted after bringing the team so close to glory.
More: UK
There were scenes of heartbreak at the various fan parks across the nation, including at Hyde Park, where 30,000 gathered to watch the big game.
Many fans had tears in their eyes and were too upset to talk after the final whistle – but other pockets of the crowd hid their sadness to applaud the Three Lions.
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