Ed Sheeran paid a special visit to the England national football team camp in Kansas City ahead of their FIFA World Cup quarter-final, delivering a private acoustic performance for the squad. With captain Harry Kane and his teammates preparing for a crucial knockout clash, Sheeran entertained the players and coaching staff at their Meadowbrook training base, adding a relaxed touch to England’s preparations.
The Grammy Award-winning singer performed an acoustic rendition of his popular track Castle on the Hill by the hotel pool, continuing a tradition that has become part of England’s build-up at major international tournaments. Sheeran also backed the Three Lions to go all the way to the World Cup final, offering another boost of confidence before their last-eight encounter against Norway.
Ed Sheeran Surprises England National Football Team Ahead of World Cup Quarter-Final
Ed Sheeran made a special appearance in the seventh episode of England’s Extra Time, spending time with the England national football team before performing an acoustic version of Castle on the Hill at their World Cup base in Kansas City. England head into the quarter-finals after a historic 3-2 victory over Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, becoming the first team to beat Mexico in Mexico City in a FIFA World Cup match.
🚨 MUSIC! 🎶
Ed Sheeran joined up with the England National Team to perform a private show. 🏴
🎥 @AccessEdSheeran pic.twitter.com/hNBHNThGi7
— Polymarket FC (@PolymarketFC) July 9, 2026
Sheeran’s connection with the England squad dates back to Euro 2021, when Kane first invited him to visit the team’s camp. Since then, the singer has become a familiar face during England’s major tournaments, building a close bond with the players over the years. Speaking on the latest episode of Extra Time, Sheeran reflected on how the tradition began.
“In 2021, Harry invited me to the camp. I met everyone, and I’ve been back for every tournament since. It’s become a lovely tradition. Since that first performance, we’ve built a great relationship, so it’s never a difficult audience.” His latest visit and performance were aimed at keeping spirits high within the England camp as the team prepares for its crucial World Cup quarter-final.
Ed Sheeran Shares His Prediction for the Rest of the FIFA World Cup
Ed Sheeran also shared his prediction for the remainder of the FIFA World Cup, backing the England national football team to reach the final against France national football team. Confident about England’s chances, the Grammy-winning singer said, “I think it will be an England versus France final. Once you reach the final, anyone can win, but I believe it will be England.”
England will now shift its focus to Sunday’s quarter-final against Norway national football team in Miami as Thomas Tuchel looks to guide his side one step closer to the title. However, the Three Lions will have to cope without defender Jarell Quansah, who is suspended after being sent off against Mexico, while midfielder Jordan Henderson has been ruled out of the tournament following a serious forearm injury sustained during the celebrations after England’s dramatic win.
Despite those setbacks, the mood inside the England camp remains upbeat. Sheeran’s latest visit and private performance added another lift to the squad as they continue their preparations for one of their biggest matches of the tournament.
