The families and partners of England’s national team players turned out in force on Wednesday as the Three Lions prepared for their FIFA World Cup knockout match against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta.
Among those in attendance were several well-known wives and girlfriends (WAGs), who drew attention with coordinated outfits and enthusiastic support from the stands before kick-off.
Ashlyn Castro and Megan Pickford Lead Matchday Arrivals
Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend, Ashlyn Castro, arrived at Atlanta Stadium wearing a black halterneck top paired with blue jeans. She completed her look with polished makeup as she joined fellow supporters ahead of the highly anticipated fixture.
Jordan Pickford’s wife, influencer Megan Pickford, also attracted attention in a cropped green England shirt matched with white low-rise trousers. She accessorized with a green Chanel handbag, styled her hair in loose curls and was seen taking selfies, refreshing her makeup and using a portable fan while waiting for the match to begin.
Harry Kane’s Family Shows Support From the Stands
England captain Harry Kane’s wife, Kate Kane, attended the game alongside their children.
She wore a grey coordinated outfit and carried homemade “Go Daddy” signs, along with a large cut-out of her husband’s face, as the family cheered on England during its first knockout-round appearance of the tournament.
Team Families Continue Strong Presence at Tournament
The Atlanta gathering followed another social event involving England’s WAGs in New York before the team’s group-stage victory over Panama.
According to reports, around a dozen partners of England players met at the French-themed restaurant and nightlife venue Maison Close in Lower Manhattan for what was described as a birthday celebration and an opportunity for the group to get to know one another.
The evening reportedly lasted until the venue closed, with members of the group later returning to their hotel ahead of matchday preparations.
Bonding Session Brings Squad Families Together
Social media posts from the gathering showed several partners spending time together, including Olivia Stones, wife of defender John Stones.
Sources described the evening as a relaxed bonding session designed to strengthen friendships among the families accompanying the England squad throughout the tournament.
The event followed another recent outing in Manhattan, highlighting the close-knit atmosphere among the players’ partners during the World Cup.
Roy Keane Comments Continue to Draw Reaction
The WAGs have also remained in the spotlight following comments from former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, who criticized partners for wearing shirts displaying their footballers’ names.
Friends of several England partners said they had no intention of changing how they support the team, insisting they would continue wearing England apparel and personalized jerseys regardless of outside criticism.
Ollie Watkins’ wife, Ellie, had previously responded playfully on social media after Keane’s remarks, posting an outfit video and jokingly asking whether the pundit approved.
Ellie Shares Humorous Travel Update
Ellie also amused followers by revealing she had forgotten to pack essential clothing while travelling for England’s earlier match against Ghana.
After previously describing the mishap as a “nightmare,” she later shared an update from New York showing she had finally replaced the missing items during a shopping trip before travelling to Atlanta.
Tuchel Focused on Performance Rather Than Occasion
As attention surrounded the supporters in the stands, England head coach Thomas Tuchel remained focused on preparations for the match against DR Congo.
Tuchel said he hoped the team would produce a performance capable of entertaining supporters watching from home, particularly younger fans able to tune in because of the earlier kick-off time.
However, he cautioned against expecting an easy evening, emphasizing that tournament football often presents unpredictable challenges.
The manager also confirmed that defenders Jarell Quansah and Reece James would not feature in the matchday squad, although he noted both players had come close to selection.
Spotlight Shifts to England’s Knockout Campaign
With family members filling the stands and supporters eagerly anticipating the contest, England entered its World Cup knockout tie backed by a visible show of encouragement from those closest to the players.
As the Three Lions sought a place in the next round, both the team on the pitch and the supporters in the stadium reflected the growing excitement surrounding England’s World Cup campaign.
