At the 2026 World Cup, the news and controversies surrounding the wives and girlfriends of the English players no longer dominated the headlines. Conversely, it was difficult to find images or activities of them. It wasn't until after the match against Croatia, with England's impressive 4-2 victory, that the infamous "behind-the-scenes" cast of the Three Lions reappeared. And these were beautiful, colorful, and incredibly romantic images.
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| Striker Kane and his wife Katie at the 2026 World Cup. Photo: The Sun |
Twenty years ago, whether or not a player's wife and girlfriend could meet during a major tournament was still a matter of debate, but now their presence in the stands and behind the technical area is commonplace. For a star player, after a year of intense pressure and competition, followed by a month-long training camp in the summer, having a wife or girlfriend by their side has become essential, even for teams that previously strictly prohibited it.
In the German national team, coach Nagelsmann would walk around to the stands to kiss his wife after each victory. The English players do the same. It's gradually becoming a beautiful, humane, and inspiring image. After their opening match win against Croatia, a series of kisses were given by the players to their wives. Jude Bellingham and Ashlyn Castro, captain Kane and Katie, and goalkeeper Pickford and his wife Megan…
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| Megan and goalkeeper Pickford share a passionate kiss. Photo: The Sun |
Twenty years ago, the first generation of WAGs, like Victoria Beckham and Cheryl Cole, caused a sensation in Germany, with Victoria alone spending nearly 100,000 Euros on trinkets in less than an hour of shopping. They would then take to the catwalk, pose for photos extensively, and create a stir in the VIP areas of stadiums… but now, WAGs are more reserved and low-key, understanding that the stage belongs to the players.
The 2006 World Cup was the peak of criticism, with WAGs (wives and girlfriends of footballers) monopolizing the fans' attention. British tabloids assigned reporters specifically to cover this large group. The more antics, the more they liked; the more drama, the more fun. There were stories like Victoria having two suitcases containing nearly 100 pairs of trousers, bringing 70 pairs of glasses and bottles of liquor as gifts for her teammates, Elen Rives (Lampard's wife) missing her flight because of too much carry-on luggage. Then there were stories of WAGs causing chaos and rioting in bars, partying and dancing with the players all night long, even though the players were supposed to be focusing on training and competing…
The England players' "support staff" at the time were seen as a circus act, heavily criticized, and considered partly responsible for England's quarter-final defeat against Portugal.
Times have changed, and the behavior of WAGs (wives and girlfriends of footballers) is now quite positive. For example, Pickford's wife lost all her luggage upon arriving in the US, but simply posted on Instagram: "Nothing can stop me from cheering." She also mentioned that the outfit she was wearing consisted only of an old shirt she was already wearing, and the jeans were borrowed.
It's very simple. Lovely. What the players need most from their wives or girlfriends is heartfelt support and encouragement. And to end each match, win or lose, the emotions will be sealed with a kiss backstage!
Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/the-thao/worldcup-2026/nu-hon-sau-san-khau-world-cup-1044903
