A new tradition is taking shape at the 2026 World Cup — England players and fans joining together after victories to belt out the Oasis classic Wonderwall.

The ritual began after England's 4-2 win over Croatia. Tournament organisers had asked each participating team to select post-match singalong tracks, among other in-stadium music choices, and Wonderwall was among England's selections. When the song rang out over the PA system in Dallas, Texas, fans and players alike sang along — and something clicked.

A song that fits the moment

Why the Britpop ballad has resonated so deeply is difficult to pin down, but the lyrics carry a particular weight in this context. England are chasing a first international trophy since 1966, and there is something in the song's winding road imagery and hopeful, drawn-out "maybe" that seems to mirror the nation's long wait for glory.

The phenomenon has grown beyond the stadium. Following England's win over Mexico, streaming figures for Wonderwall in the UK spiked by 306 percent immediately after the match. Over the full 24-hour period, the song accumulated 200,441 streams — an 18 percent increase on a normal day.

Other songs have also seen a lift. Three Lions, Vindaloo, World in Motion, and We're on the Ball have all recorded significant streaming increases in the wake of England victories at the tournament.

Liam Gallagher's semi-pledge

The tradition has grown large enough to attract the attention of Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher himself, who has made something of a loose pledge to perform Wonderwall on the pitch at the final — should England reach it.

The surge in streams means more royalty income for the Gallagher brothers, though Noel Gallagher has long made clear he does not support England. Speaking to TalkSPORT, Noel said: "I'm not an England fan. When I was growing up it was all Liverpool and United players. I couldn't get behind that." He did, however, offer kind words for John Stones and Marc Guehi, praising both players' performances at the tournament.