Sunderland fans have always turned out in big numbers to support the team whether its at fan zones in the city centre or packing out local pubs.
We have looked back through our archive to bring you these 21 pictures from previous World Cups.
17. Patriotic ladies
These patriotic ladies joined fans who gathered at Hastings Hill to watch England beat Trinidad and Tobago in the 2006 World Cup. Photo: Echo
18. Cheering the team on
England fans in The Chesters when England took on Paraguay in their first World Cup match in 2006. Photo: KB
19. Girls' night out
These ladies were in the sports bar of Sunderland's Stadium of Light in 2010 to watch England play Germany in the Quarter Finals of the 2010 World Cup. Photo: PB
20. Dramatic moment
England fans at the Stadium of Light will England on in the match against Germany in 2010. Photo: PB