England’s appearance in a first World Cup semi-final since 1990 is an “incredible feeling”, says boss Gareth Southgate.
Goals by Harry Maguire and Dele Alli sealed a 2-0 last-eight win over Sweden to leave them one game from the final.
England must now prepare for a momentous match in Moscow on Wednesday against the winner of the quarter-final between hosts Russia and Croatia.
“Russia in Moscow would be an incredible game,” Southgate said.
England have not reached the final since winning the World Cup in 1966, while it is only the third time they have reached the last four.
“I hope everyone at home enjoys tonight because it’s not often this happens,” added Southgate to BBC Sport. “It is an incredible feeling.”
Maguire and Alli struck either side of the interval in Samara. Maguire broke the deadlock on the half-hour, flashing a header past Sweden goalkeeper Robin Olsen from Ashley Young’s corner.
England sealed victory when Alli headed in Jesse Lingard’s lofted cross at the far post.
“We knew it was going to be such a different game after having extra time and penalties against Colombia, with all the emotion and the energy,” said Southgate.
“We had to withstand a lot of physical pressure but the resilience of the team was crucial.
“We knew we would have the majority of the ball and it was a case of breaking them down because Sweden are a really well organised team.
“Over the years we have underestimated them.”
