Craig Jackson was the England flag waver when the national side played Croatia at Portman Road back in 2003. Picture: ARCHANT
Ipswich Town’s home hosted its first – and so far only – senior international back on August 20, 2003, and it saw England do battle with the team who will be their foes on Wednesday.
Ipswich-born Kieron Dyer in action for England against Croatia at Portman Road in 2003. Picture: PA SPORT (Image: Archant)
And, in what is hopefully a foreshadowing of the huge semi-final clash, England won the friendly match 3-1.
England v Croatia international football.
England v Croatia international football.
Captain David Beckham, sporting a pony tail and top knot at the time, put England ahead from the penalty spot after just eight minutes after Croatian defender Josip Simunic handled his cross.
England celebrate at Portman Road Picture: SIMON PARKER
An action shot from the big game at Portman Road Picture: SIMON PARKER
Beckham crossed to Michael Owen to make it 2-0 after 50 minutes, before being substituted to a rapturous reception.
Were you there at Portman Road when England took on Croatia? Picture: SIMON PARKER
Davod Beckham was in the squad when England faced Croatia in Ipswich Picture: SIMON PARKER
Were you there? Picture: SIMON PARKER
Davod Beckham and the team at Ipswich Town's home ground Picture: SIMON PARKER
A round of applause from David Beckham Picture: Owen Hines
Celebrating with the fans at The Blues' stadium Picture: SIMON PARKER
Paul Scholes and David Beckham were key players in the game at Portman Road Picture: SIMON PARKER
Frank Lampard was another team member at the time Picture: SIMON PARKER
Croatia pulled one back through Ivica Mormar after 78 minutes, before Frank Lampard struck England’s third with ten minutes left.
Are you onw of the cheering fans? Will it be a similar picture in Russia tonight? Picture: OWEN HINES
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