SAN FRANCISCO, June 27, (THEWILL) – England were dealt a humiliating 2-1 defeat by minnows, Iceland, on Monday as Roy Hodgson’s side crashed out of Euro 2016 in one of the most stunning upsets in the history of the game.
Goals from Ragnar Sigurdsson and Kolbeinn Sigthorsson sealed the one of the most embarrassing results in English football history as Iceland came from behind to defeat England and book a quarter-final meeting with hosts France.
Sigurdsson, in less than 90 seconds cancelled out Wayne Rooney’s fourth-minute penalty opener, for his 53rd international goal, before Kolbeinn Sigthorsson’s tame shot squirmed past England goalkeeper, Joe Hart, for an 18th-minute winner.
Coming just three days after Britain voted to leave the European Union, England’s defeat, perhaps, is a mere confirmation of the country’s desire to exit Europe.
England manager, Roy Hodgson, could not bear the loss as he immediately announced his resignation.
The 68-year-old announced that he will step down as manager, with his assistants, Ray Lewington and Gary Neville also leaving their roles.
“My contract was always up after the Euros, so now is the time for someone else to oversee the progress of this young, hungry and extremely talented group of players,” he said.
“They’ve been fantastic and done everything that’s been asked of them.
“Ray and Gary have asked for me to speak on their behalf. They arrived with me as part of my coaching team and they leave with me. I’d like to thank them for their dedicated support and the major part they played in the team’s preparation.
“I’m sorry it’s had to end this way with another exit from the tournament but these things happen.”
Similarly, Italy have defeated defending champions Spain 2-0 to set up a quarter-final tie with Germany at Euro 2016.
Giorgio Chiellini bundled the ball home from close range to give Italy a 1-0 lead in the 33rd minute while Graziano Pelle grabbed a second goal for Italy in the 92nd minute of the game.
Story by David Oputah
