After all major sporting events were either postponed or cancelled following the Covid outbreak last year, football lovers around the world were given a rare month-long treat in the form of Copa America and Euro Cup that concluded just hours apart last weekend. Argentina took home the Copa America title after defeating hosts Brazil with a lone goal, thus giving Lionel Messi the elusive major international trophy after years of being hounded by criticism for not winning any major title for his country despite his illustrious career. However, Euro Cup 2020 grabbed more limelight right from the start but it did not end on a good note. The latter continues to be in the news for all the wrong reasons. What happened before and after the final match between the host England and Italy was a blot to an otherwise incredible tournament. The visuals that flooded social media showed mayhem outside Wembley before the match began as ticketless fans stormed the gates, forcing security personnel to lock the stadium. The UEFA had charged England after a fan pointed a laser at Denmark’s goalkeeper during the semifinal match and for causing disturbance while Denmark's national anthem was played as well as the setting off of fireworks. England fans didn’t learn any lesson from it. They continued to boo Italy’s national anthem before the commencement of the championship match. It was disrespectful and something that should not be repeated however intense the competition may be or the desperation to win.
And what happened after England lost the final to Italy on penalties was a stark reminder of the existence of racism in society. Three black players -- Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka – became the target of racial abuse on social media after they missed the spot-kicks in the penalty shootout against Italy. But is there any famous footballer both past and contemporary who has not missed a penalty on the big stage? Lionel Messi had missed the spot-kick, so too Cristiano Ronaldo and all famous footballers one can think of. The England team captain, politicians, sportspersons and public did the right thing by condemning fans’ abhorrent behaviour and standing by the national team. England manager Gareth Southgate went to the extent of calling it "unforgivable". Nobody can deny the fact that this England team was one of the strongest seen in a long time. They gave genuine hope that they could break the country’s 55 year international title drought. And, brought so much joy to football lovers around the world throughout the tournament although, lady luck wasn’t on their side towards the end. However, one team has to win in a game and it was Italy this time but the England team didn’t lose from the competition. It was the fans who lost by bringing disgrace to football and sports through their appalling behaviour.