Football fans in Bradford reacted to England's 2-1 defeat to Croatia with a mixture of devastation and pride.

The final goal, scored in extra-time, was a crushing blow to Three Lions supporters across the country, including those who had assembled at Odsal to watch the dramatic action.

Fans at Odsal Stadium had been celebrating England’s achievement of reaching their first World Cup semi-final since 1990, but the dream of reaching the final was shattered on a night of high emotions. 

But many remained upbeat, stating that they were proud of the team's performance at the tournament and urging them to go out on a high by beating Belgium in the third place play off on Saturday.

A marquee with a big screen, with plenty of England fans and flags was the scene at the Bradford Bulls home.

The noise levels remained constant and - even when England were losing - the fans' spirit echoed around the marquee.

Chants of “Football’s coming home" were present throughout, even though the crowd was bitterly disappointed when the whistle blew at the end of the game.

Tracy Cliffe, 51, of Queensbury, said: "I'm sorry they haven’t won but I think they’ll win against Belgium."

Fan Robert Cliffe, 21 from Queensbury, said: "The way they played is disgraceful, the amount of times they have let Croatia pass they lost opportunities. They made mistakes.

He added: "Time will tell against their chances against Belgium."

Liz Robinson, 53 of East Bowling, said: "We’re all devastated, but we're proud too. I don’t think they’ll beat Belgium, they're a pretty good team."

Rhiann Oxley, 26, of Wyke, shed tears when England lost. She said: "I'm absolutely devastated, we thought we could win. After the first half it’s like they went to sleep. There were the usual England tactics.

She added: "Belgium were on fire against France, but we'll do alright. Gareth Southgate needs to have a word with his men. If we play in the third place play off like we did tonight we won’t have a chance."

But another fan was upbeat. Jason Youngman, 29, from Holmewood, said: "They did brilliant to get to the semis, in four years time it might be ours.

"Be happy to beat Belgium."

England face Belgium in the third place play off on Saturday at 3pm. Croatia will be going on to battle France in the final on Sunday with a 4pm kick-off.