The Killers lead singer Brandon Flowers watches the Euro semi-final onstage at the O2.
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US band The Killers captured the hearts of England fans on Wednesday night when they performed at the O2 Arena, showcasing the final five minutes of the European Championship semi-final.
After the England national soccer team took a 2-1 lead against the Netherlands thanks to a last-minute goal from Ollie Watkins that sealed their place in the final, The Killers stopped playing a few minutes before the final whistle. When the game finally ended, cheers filled the arena, red and white confetti flew from the stage, and the musicians began playing their global hit, “Mr. Brightside.”
The song is hugely popular in the UK, where it has become a staple club hit and some have called it the unofficial “national anthem.” Sky reporter Martin Kimber wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Probably the most exciting moment of my life – when The Killers performed Mr Brightside live from the Euros just before England won.”
Another fan at the venue said: “If I had the chance to see England reach the Euros final I would be delighted. [and] And if you're planning on singing the British national anthem in an arena with 15,000 people, I highly recommend it. The Killers are perfect.”
“Tonight we played for England!” the band said on their social media platforms after the event.
England face Spain in the UEFA Europa League final on Sunday night, a victory that could be monumental for fans hoping to win the tournament, with the heartbreak of losing to Italy in the 2021 final still fresh.