The **England national football team**, known as the Three Lions, is one of the most historic and prestigious football organizations globally. Established with its first official international match in 1872, England played a foundational role in international football, originating in the country where the sport itself was invented[1][2]. The team is governed by The Football Association (FA), England’s football governing body, and competes primarily in major international tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and UEFA Nations League[1]. England's crowning achievement is winning the **1966 FIFA World Cup**, hosted on home soil, which makes them one of only eight nations to have won the tournament. The final against West Germany, won 4-2 after extra time, is one of football’s most iconic matches, featuring legendary players like Geoff Hurst, Bobby Charlton, and Gordon Banks[1][2][3]. Beyond 1966, England has reached the World Cup semi-finals twice more—in 1990 and 2018—and has frequently advanced to the quarter-finals, although they have also experienced notable failures, missing out on the tournament in 1974, 1978, and 1994[1][3]. In the UEFA European Championship, England reached the final for the first time in 2020 and again in 2024, finishing as runners-up both times. They also made semi-final appearances in 1968 and 1996, the latter being held at home[1]. England’s most capped player is goalkeeper Peter Shilton, with 125 international appearances, while Harry Kane is their top scorer with 74 goals[1][7]. Currently, England remains a leading football nation with a strong fan base, notable for its rich legacy, iconic players, and continued competitiveness on the world stage. Their blend of tradition and modern development keeps them a focal point in both sports and business sectors, especially regarding the global football market and associated technologies. The team’s