25 brilliant pictures as fans gather in Sunderland to watch England conquer Croatia in their first World Cup clash

By Gavin Ledwith

Published 17th Jun 2026, 23:28 GMT

Updated 18th Jun 2026, 00:19 GMT

Football fans in Sunderland gathered together to roar The Three Lions to victory in their first World Cup match.

Hundreds of supporters watched England’s 4-2 win over Croatia on big screens at The Stack, in Seaburn, on Wednesday night.

Echo photographer Frank Reid was there to capture these pictures of spectators both enduring and enjoying the rollercoaster ride.

England fans gather at The Stack, in Sunderland, to watch the 4-2 World Cup victory over Croatia.

1. Cracking start

England fans gather at The Stack, in Sunderland, to watch the 4-2 World Cup victory over Croatia. Photo: Iconic Media Group

These England fans were confident before the game.

2. Thumbs up

These England fans were confident before the game. Photo: Frank Reid

This spectator watches a tense moment at The Stack.

3. Tense moment

This spectator watches a tense moment at The Stack. Photo: FRANK REID

Plenty of England shirts were on show at The Stack.

4. Getting shirty

Plenty of England shirts were on show at The Stack. Photo: Frank Reid

England Sunderland Croatia Seaburn

News you can trust since 1873

© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Terms and Conditions Privacy notice