Brighton: England fans watch Lionesses in World Cup final

Fans crowded around big screens to watch England’s women as they reached the country’s first football world cup final since 1966.

Despite falling to Spain, supporters roared on the Lionesses to the very end and shared their pride at what they had achieved.

Friends Amber and Alexa, who came to the city to watch the game having previously studied in Brighton, said it was “pretty crazy” to see so many people in Ye Olde King and Queen in Marlborough Place.

Alexa, left, and Amber at Ye Olde King and Queen (Image: The Argus)

Amber said: "This is one of the most watched events and I'd say its really substantial for womens football. The fact that England have got to the final is pretty crazy.”

Alexa added that while they knew it would be a good place to watch the game they did not expect so many people to be filling the pub.

Fans screamed their shock before going into stunned silence when Olga Carmona slotted home for Spain with what turned out to be the game winner in the first half.

Tim and Mia (Image: The Argus)

However, the crowd soon roared their approval and sprung back into life as Mary Earps cooly saved Jennifer Hermosa’s penalty midway through the second half.

After what seemed like an eternity Mary Earps sends the roof off the King and Queen! pic.twitter.com/kunt9yoOwb

— Patrick Barlow (@PBarlowJourno) August 20, 2023

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Charlotte and Naomi, who came from Hove and Worthing for the match, called the game “stressful” at half time but maintained faith that the team would go all the way.

After the game, Tim and Mia said they were “immensely proud” of the Lionesses despite the loss.

Charlotte, left, and Naomi (Image: The Argus)

Having watched the match in the Pump House in Market Street, Tim added: "It's a shame, we never got going and Spain just contained us.

“Getting to a final is still something to be proud of. I thought the save let us off the hook and would spur us on to win but unfortunately it didn't.”

Argus readers also took to social media to share their pride for the Lionesses, with one person adding: “You did us proud and have been an inspiration to a generation of youngsters, who now dream of being where you ladies were today.”