Rashford and Mainoo on 'magic moments' with fans

England pair Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo have revealed how the moments shared with supporters after games have provided the players with a window into the world outside of camp.

The Three Lions squad have enjoyed their post-match pitch time following the wins over Croatia and Panama this tournament, with Oasis' classic Wonderwall becoming the new celebratory singalong anthem.

And having been in their tournament prep camp since the start of June in Miami before moving onto Kansas City once the fixtures began, Rashford admits those moments have provided special memories for the group off the pitch.

"For us as players, every game's a stepping stone to get to what we want to do," he said, on episode 13 of the Lions' Den connected by EE.

"But that (the post-match moments with fans) is probably the only bit of the whole camp when we get to see the enjoyment of winning a game.

"So you really enjoy the moment because for us, we have a game and regardless of the result, you have to go and prepare for the next game in the group stage or whatever is next.

"It's an 'onto the next one' mentality so you don't always enjoy those little moments of winning a game or getting through the group but the fans definitely remind us of how exciting it is and how happy they are for us."

Mainoo added: "We're in a camp so we don't get to see the outside too much but to hear from the fans makes you realise how big what we're actually doing is.

"It feels positive now, we've had a tough group stage but the team feels together and we're looking forward to what's next."

After finishing top of Group L, that next game is coming quickly on the horizon with DR Congo in opposition on Wednesday (5pm BST) in Atlanta.

It will be a first ever senior meeting with the African nation, but there's two familiar faces in the opposition squad for the Manchester United duo in Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Axel Tuanzebe who have both had previous spells alongside them at Old Trafford.

"They have some great players that we know, in Axel and Aaron, so we know them well as players," explained Mainoo.

"That might help us a bit but they're still top players and they're a top nation, so it's a tough game and we'll approach it how we've done for the other games."

England are through to the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the stakes are high as Thomas Tuchel’s team prepare for the Round of 32.

Noni Madueke played a big role in the group stages, featuring on the right-hand side of attack in all three matches and sharing the load with Arsenal teammate Bukayo Saka.

Speaking ahead of the next game, Madueke opened up on his relationship with Saka, and spoke about how the pair bounce off each other’s performances to help the team.

“It’s well documented that we’re very close,” he said.

“Normally it should be a little bit strange (between two players who play in the same position). But it’s not and I feel like it doesn’t affect our relationship whatsoever.

“We want the best for each other when each other plays, because that means if he plays well, I play well, then England and Arsenal have a better chance of winning.

“In terms of how we differ, I think I thrive in space and he thrives in congestion.”

Madueke was also asked whether he felt capable of stepping up for England and producing a big moment as the knockout stages begin.

“You have to feel like that, you’re a top player, you’re here for a reason,” he said.

“You’re playing for your country on the biggest stage and you have to have that excessive confidence in your ability because, at the end of the day, alongside your teammates on that pitch, it’s down to you to deliver.

“Whatever gets you in that mindset to be able to do that, I feel like that’s good.”

This is Madueke’s first major international tournament after earning a World Cup call-up following an impressive title-winning season with the Gunners.

“It’s been a good experience,” he said of his time in North America so far.

“The first objective was achieved, so I’m really happy about that and I’m looking forward to the knockout stages now.

“It’s a dream come true to compete in the World Cup. I’m grateful for the opportunity and like I said, knockout football is where it’s at, so I’m trying to be at my best for that.”