Eddie Hearn has admitted he felt “drained” after England’s heart-breaking loss to Italy in the final of Euro 2020.
Gareth Southgate’s young side were defeated on penalties after misses from Marcus Rashford, Jaden Sancho and Bukayo Saka. Their attention will now switch to next year’s World Cup where they’re likely to be amongst the favourites.
England’s run to the final had lifted the nation as they looked to win their first major honour in 55 years. The game began brilliantly for England when Luke Shaw gave them an early lead but they were pegged back in the second half when Leonardo Bonnuci equalised from close range.
With no more drama in extra time, Italy held their nerve better from 12 yards as England, and Hearn, were left to wonder what might have been. Speaking on The DAZN Boxing Show, the Matchroom chairman declared his pride for England’s footballers.
"It was such a big achievement for us to reach the finals,” said Hearn. “You know we have a very young team and it's like they're building towards a better future and a brighter future.
“Unfortunately, we lost against a very good team in Italy and lost on penalties, which is the tightest margin you can lose in a game. So, we're very proud but also feel it might have been one that slipped away.”